Remember Belviq, the weight-loss pill promised to melt pounds like butter? Well, it turns out it might have melted something else instead: your hopes for a healthy future. In 2020, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) yanked Belviq off the shelves after a study linked it to an increased risk of certain cancers, including pancreatic, colorectal, and lung. Yikes!
Now, if you were one of the millions who popped Belviq, you might be wondering: can I sue? The answer, like most things in life, is a nuanced “maybe.” Here’s the lowdown on Belviq lawsuits and whether a class action might be your ticket to justice.
First, the bad news: There isn’t a single, nationwide Belviq class action lawsuit at the moment. Bummer, right? However, there are tons of individual lawsuits filed against Belviq’s manufacturers, Eisai Inc. and Arena Pharmaceuticals. These lawsuits allege that the companies failed to adequately warn about the cancer risks, essentially playing roulette with people’s health.
So, does that mean you’re out of luck? Not necessarily. If you took Belviq and developed cancer, you might still have a case. An experienced attorney can assess your situation and advise you on the best course of action, whether it’s joining an existing lawsuit, filing your own, or exploring other legal options.
Here’s where things get interesting: There have been talks of a multidistrict litigation (MDL) for Belviq cases. An MDL groups similar lawsuits together for pretrial proceedings, streamlining the process and saving everyone time and money. If an MDL is formed, it could pave the way for a future class action, but that’s still up in the air.
The bottom line: If you’re a former Belviq user with a cancer diagnosis, don’t despair. Talk to a lawyer who specializes in drug litigation. They can help you navigate the legal landscape and determine if you have a case. Remember, knowledge is power, and in this situation, it could be the key to getting the compensation you deserve.
Bonus: 6 FAQs to Quench Your Belviq Blues Thirst:
Do I have to have cancer to sue?
Not necessarily. Some lawsuits also allege emotional distress and other damages caused by Belviq’s potential risks.
How much could I get in a lawsuit?
It depends on the specifics of your case and the damages you suffered.
What are the deadlines for filing a lawsuit?
Each state has its own statute of limitations, so talk to a lawyer ASAP.
Can I afford a lawyer?
Many lawyers offer free consultations and work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if you win.
Will a class action be better than an individual lawsuit?
It depends. Class actions can be faster and cheaper, but individual cases may offer more personalized attention and potentially higher damages.
What if I don’t want to sue?
You have other options, like filing a complaint with the FDA or seeking compensation through government programs.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. If you have questions or concerns about Belviq, reach out to a qualified attorney. They can help you understand your rights and fight for the justice you deserve.
Sources:
https://www.drugwatch.com/belviq/lawsuits/
https://www.forthepeople.com/practice-areas/dangerous-drug-lawyers/belviq-lawsuit/
https://nationalclasslawyers.com/mass-tort-class-action-practice-areas/belviq-lawsuit/
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/022529s005s007,208524s001lbl.pdf
