Opioids are a class of prescription drugs that interact with opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain. They are generally safe when taken for a short period of time, but because they can produce euphoria in addition to relieving pain, even regular use prescribed by a doctor can lead to dependence, overdose incidents, and even death.
This opioid epidemic has hit Massachusetts especially hard. According to mass.gov, opioid-related deaths in the state were four times higher in 2015 than 2000 and have surpassed the national average in the past two years.
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Although these types of lawsuits are relatively new, they all have similar allegations: the manufacturers and distributors have directly impacted our communities by misrepresenting the addictive properties of these drugs and not monitoring the suspicious activities of “pill mill” pharmacies. This addiction has derailed the lives of many people in our communities by manipulating the supply chain of these prescription drugs. Common prescription opioids include:
The addictive properties of opioids are well documented. Among new heroin users, approximately 3 out of 4 heroin report to abusing prescription opioids prior to using heroin.
Compensation for cases on behalf of our cities, towns, and communities depend on the specifics of each case, but in general, a recovery will focus on:
At Sweeney Merrigan Law, we believe that the opioid epidemic is one of the largest threats to the health and safety of our local community. We encourage all community leaders in Massachusetts to contact our office at (617)-391-9001 so that we can further discuss our initiative with regards to overcoming this community epidemic.
Attorneys at Sweeney Merrigan Law, LLP have been recognized and honored by several of the top legal associations, including SuperLawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association, and Best Lawyers.
Sweeney Merrigan Law, LLP is a highly successful personal injury law firm serving Massachusetts since 2011.
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