Suboxone is a medication used to treat opioid addiction, containing buprenorphine and naloxone. While Suboxone is highly effective in helping individuals overcome opioid dependence, there have been concerns about its potential impact on dental health and tooth decay.

If you recently experienced tooth decay or other dental injuries after taking Suboxone, it is important to take a few moments to learn about your rights. Pharmaceutical manufacturers have a legal obligation to inform patients of all known risks related to their products. If a manufacturer fails to warn patients about a potential side-effect, the company may be liable through a product liability lawsuit. Those with questions about Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits should reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer to learn more.

Does Suboxone Cause Tooth Damage?

Since the approval of buprenorphine medications like Soboxone, there have been hundreds of reported cases of dental issues associated with the dissolution of these medications in the mouth. Among these cases, 131 were classified as severe. It's important to note that these figures only include cases reported to the FDA or published in medical literature, and there may be additional unreported cases. Many individuals who have been prescribed or used Suboxone as a dissolvable firm for opioid addiction or pain management are alleging that Indivior, the company that makes the pain management drug, company knew about yet failed to warn users about tooth decay and other adverse effects.

Who is Responsible for Suboxone Dental Injuries?

The primary defendants in Suboxone dental injury claims include Indivior, PLC; Indivior, Inc.; Indivior Solutions, Inc.; Reckitt Benckiser, LLC; Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare (UK), LTD; Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc.; Monosol Rx, Inc.; and Monosol, LLC. These companies are involved in the manufacturing, distribution, marketing, or licensing of Suboxone, a medication used to treat opioid addiction. Suboxone users in these lawsuits typically claim that these companies failed to provide adequate warnings about the possible side effects of Suboxone, including its impact on dental health. Some individuals also claim that these companies did not conduct sufficient research or clinical trials to identify and disclose the risks associated with the medication.

Suboxone Side Effects Include Tooth Decay and Injury

While Suboxone has been pivotal in helping individuals on their path to recovery, it is essential to acknowledge potential side effects.

What Does Suboxone Do to Your Teeth?

Understanding the mechanisms underlying tooth decay associated with Suboxone use is crucial for individuals seeking recourse against the drug's manufacturer.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Suboxone has been linked to dry mouth as a side effect. Dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands produce less saliva than necessary. Saliva plays a critical role in oral health by neutralizing acids, washing away food particles, and preventing the proliferation of harmful bacteria. Reduced saliva production can lead to a higher risk of tooth decay.

Sugar Cravings and Dietary Changes

Some Suboxone users report increased cravings for sugary foods or changes in their dietary habits. Frequent sugar consumption can promote tooth decay if not managed effectively. Sugar intake provides nourishment for harmful oral bacteria, leading to acid production that can erode tooth enamel.

Dental Injuries from Suboxone

Many Suboxone injuries have reported tooth decay injuries that are potentially related to their use of the drug. Some injuries related to Suboxone use include the following:

• Cavities: Untreated tooth decay can result in cavities that permanently damage the tooth's hard surface.
• Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Tooth decay can contribute to gum disease, which, if untreated, can lead to gum recession, tooth loss, and systemic health issues.
• Pain and Discomfort: Tooth decay injuries can cause significant pain and discomfort, affecting an individual's ability to eat, speak, and engage in daily activities.
• Aesthetic Concerns: Tooth decay can result in cosmetic issues such as tooth discoloration and deterioration, impacting an individual's self-esteem and confidence.

Individuals who suspect they have experienced dental injuries due to Suboxone use should seek legal advice from professionals specializing in product liability and pharmaceutical litigation for potential recourse and compensation.

Product Liability Claims Against Suboxone Manufacturer

Product liability claims against the manufacturer of Suboxone typically revolve around allegations that the pharmaceutical company failed to adequately warn consumers and healthcare providers about the potential risks and side effects associated with the medication. These claims may also assert that the manufacturer did not conduct sufficient research or clinical trials to identify and disclose the full range of adverse effects.

Individuals who have experienced adverse health effects, including tooth decay, while using Suboxone may pursue product liability claims against the manufacturer if they believe the company's actions or omissions contributed to their injuries.

Failure to Warn

Claimants may argue that the pharmaceutical company did not provide clear and comprehensive warnings about the risks associated with Suboxone use, including potential dental issues such as tooth decay. Inadequate warning labels and information can lead to injuries if individuals are unaware of the risks.

Defective Design

Some claims may allege that Suboxone was defectively designed in a way that made it more likely to cause dental problems, such as dry mouth. If the design of the medication itself contributed to the harm, it could be grounds for a product liability claim.

Negligence

Claimants may assert that the pharmaceutical company was negligent in its research, testing, or manufacturing processes, which resulted in harmful side effects that were not adequately addressed or disclosed.

Breach of Warranty

In some cases, individuals may argue that the pharmaceutical company breached implied or express warranties regarding the safety and effectiveness of Suboxone, leading to injuries and damages.

If you suspect that a pharmaceutical company has failed to adequately disclose important side effects of a medication like Suboxone, it is advisable to consult with a legal professional who specializes in pharmaceutical litigation.

Do I Have a Claim Against the Manufacturer of Suboxone?

Several key factors must typically be proven to establish a strong case against the pharmaceutical companies responsible for manufacturing and distributing Suboxone.

Individuals pursuing a lawsuit should be able to demonstrate the following:

• They experienced tooth fracture, decay, oral surgery, tongue injuries or gum injuries;
• They obtained routine dental care prior to using Suboxone; and
• Their diagnosis was less than ten years ago.

Meeting these criteria is essential to establish the basis for a solid legal case related to Suboxone tooth injuries. Individuals considering such lawsuits should consult with an experienced Suboxone tooth decay lawyer to schedule a free consultation.