Patients taking the drug Suboxone to treat opioid dependence face a greater risk of serious injuries from dental decay, and many of them are now turning to the courts to hold the drug’s maker responsible.
Indivior changed the label for Suboxone after the FDA warned in January 2022 about buprenorphine causing tooth decay, cavities, oral infections, and loss of teeth. The agency said those injuries can be serious and have been reported even in patients with no history of dental issues.
The lawyers at Alex Davis Law Office represent patients across the country with dental injuries from Suboxone. The drug typically is taken in a film that dissolves in the mouth. Many patients took buprenorphine for years before the label changed, and didn’t have the benefit of the updated warnings. The FDA now tells users that they should take the following extra steps:
After the medicine is completely dissolved, take a large sip of water, swish it gently around your teeth and gums, and swallow.
Wait at least 1 hour before brushing your teeth to avoid damage to your teeth and give your mouth a chance to return to its natural state.
Inform your dentist if you have a history of tooth problems, including cavities.
The problem with Suboxone sublingual strips is that the strips lower saliva production which leads to more acidic conditions in the mouth. This also wears down the protective enamel that covers the teeth.
Lawsuits against Indivior claim that the company knew about tooth decay risks for years, but didn’t update the label until June 2022 after the FDA’s warnings. Now, the lawsuits may be consolidated in Ohio federal court in a proceeding called Multidistrict Litigation, or MDL for short. If that happens in early 2024, the cases will remain individual lawsuits, but they will be consolidated in front of a single federal judge for the sake of efficiency and consistency.
The legal team at Alex Davis Law can provide a free consultation if you or a loved one have serious tooth decay injuries from brand name Suboxone. Depending on the facts of your case, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
To review your case, contact the lawyers at Alex Davis Law for a free consultation today.