Products liability lawsuits may commonly be based on pharmaceutical drug liability. When consumers are injured by a defective drug, the consequences can be serious. Drug manufacturers may be responsible when their drug injures a consumer. Additional parties may also be liable for the harm suffered by the victim depending on the circumstances.
In general, manufacturers of drugs have a duty to test drugs and medicines before they are offered to the public based on guidelines and industry standards provided by the Food and Drug Administration. In some circumstances, if the medicine provides adequate warnings, the manufacturer may have a defense to a claim brought by an injured consumer. Generally, drug manufacturers must warn of known dangers of the drug but are not required to warn of unknown dangers. The duties shared by drug manufacturers can include a continuing duty to provide updates concerning known adverse effects of a drug.
The liabilities and responsibilities of drug manufacturers can be complex. Because of the complexities associated with pharmaceutical liability, it is important for both injured victims and manufacturers to understand the legal process associated with pharmaceutical liability claims. There can be different theories upon which to bring a claim for damages and different methods of defending against a pharmaceutical liability claim for damages.
When an individual has been injured by a defective drug, it is important that they understand pharmaceutical liability and the options and protections that may be available to them. Damages due to a defective drug can be serious but legal options are available to help with the challenges faced by both victims and manufacturers.
