OxyContin, marketed by Purdue Pharma L.P., has been linked to addiction, suffering and death of patients using this prescription painkiller. Addiction and abuse of the drug, crime and fatal overdoses have all been reported as a result of OxyContin use.
OxyContin, approved by the FDA in 1995, is a time-released form of oxycodone, an opium derivative, which is the same active ingredient in Percodan and Percocet. OxyContin is intended for use by terminal cancer patients and chronic pain sufferers. It has been linked to at least 120 overdose deaths nationwide.
It has been alleged that Purdue Pharma L.P. has marketed the drug excessively without stressing its addictive nature. Doctors and pharmacists say the manufacturer of OxyContin promoted the benefits of the drug without providing enough warning about the serious side effects of addiction. It has also been alleged Purdue Pharma L.P. made misrepresentations and failed to sufficiently warn individuals regarding the appropriate use and risks of OxyContin.
It has been reported that OxyContin's sales exceeded $1 billion in the United States in the year 2000.
