December 13, 2010 – On top of this year’s extensive recalls, Johnson & Johnson has been ordered to pay $1.8 million in damages for “failure to warn” in a case regarding the harmful side effects of Levaquin. The drug Levaquin by Johnson & Johnson is intended for use as an antibiotic that is only available with a prescription. Recently, Levaquin has been shown to cause severe tendon damage.
Injuries caused by Levaquin use include:
- tendon damage;
- tendon injury;
- Achilles tendon rupture;
- inflammation;
- Achilles tendonitis;
- rotator cuff injury;
- biceps injury;
- hand injury; and
- thumb injury.
The injuries could be incapacitating, could cause permanent damage and are likely to rack up incredibly high medical bills. Johnson & Johnson has failed to recall, label or otherwise sufficiently warn consumers of the dangers associated with this product. The trial jury has fined Johnson & Johnson $1.8 million for this failure. $1.1 million of that sum is for punitive damages alone. Punitive damages do not often dramatically exceed the actual damage award. Only when a crime or negligent act is seen as greatly offensive does a jury award such disproportionally high punitive damage. This verdict was reached after nearly 3 weeks of testimony.
Contacting a New York Defective Drug Lawyer
When you have sustained a serious injury or lost a loved one because of the consumption of a defective or recalled drug you are entitled to seek compensation for your damages and suffering. Consulting with a New York defective drug lawyer can help you better understand your rights, determine liability for your injuries and decide if filing a defective drug claim is right for you. At Gacovino Lake & Associates we have formed a dedicated network of defective drug lawyers that serve clients nationwide. Our New York office serves residents of the 5 boroughs with their auto accident, medical malpractice, defective drug, premises liability and Workers’ Compensation claims. For experienced help with your defective drug claim, contact us today – 1-800-246-4878.
