Plaintiffs file a product liability lawsuit in Pensacola, Florida federal court against the manufacturers of Abilify, Bristol-Myers Squibb and Otsuka Pharmaceutical. Court documents allege the plaintiff suffered a gambling addiction from taking Abilify.
About Abilify
Abilify (Aripiprazole) is a commonly prescribed antipsychotic used to treat agitation caused by schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or major depression. The drug is effective at controlling symptoms of these mental disorders; however, it comes with a dangerous, side effect that many never see coming compulsive behaviors such as gambling, binge eating, excessive shopping, and hypersexuality.
Abilify Lawsuit
Previously, Bristol-Myers Squibb reached a $20 million settlement with 42 U.S. states and the District of Columbia after accusations the company improperly marketed the blockbuster antipsychotic drug Abilify.
Now, the company is under fire again. According to the lawsuit, the plaintiff alleges that she suffered from compulsive behavior in the form of a gambling addiction due to her taking the medication from September 2005 until December 2015.
Abilify & Gambling
This may seem farfetched. However, Abilify modifies brain receptors by manipulating the chemicals that regulate mood and behavior. Then, these receptors might be over-stimulating the reward signals in the brain. Thus, causing compulsive behavior.
In most cases, the compulsive behavior like gambling becomes so intense that patients often seek professional help. The addiction can be so extreme that those taking Abilify continue the downward gambling spiral. It doesn’t matter if they cannot afford it. They max out credit cards and take out second mortgages on their homes. Sometimes, they even feel compelled to use unethical measures to get money. All of this is to feed their addiction. Gambling becomes their sole reason to live.
We Want to Help Victims
It is your for companies to inform you about the long-term risks associated with the medications you take. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of drug companies to provide this information. If Abilify caused you or a loved one to develop a compulsive behavior, you should demand accountability from Bristol-Myers Squibb. Why weren’t you told?
We want to help send a message that this is not acceptable. If a dangerous product harmed you, we are your consumer advocate. Also, we have the experience necessary to successfully litigate these cases.
Contact the Michael Brady Lynch Firm today for a free consultation to learn more about seeking justice. Compensation may be available for any medical expenses associated with this ordeal, as well as for your physical and emotional suffering. There is no obligation.