Legal Question in Health Care Law in California

Drug Company 's Failure to Disclose Suicidal Side Effects in their Drug - Proza

Ten years ago my mother had been prescribed Prozak by a general practitioner and committed suicide after approximately 6-8 weeks of using the drug. I want to know if it is possible to take legal action against the drug maker or physician who prescribed my mother the drugs. She overdosed and wrote a short suicide letter. Her letter and pill bottles remain in possession of the Long Beach Police Department in Long Beach, California where we lived at the time. Her death certificate states an overdose of Prozak. I understand drug companies have offered confidential settlements in the nature of suicide. I would like to know if I can take action, and if it is not too late to do so. She was 56 years old, and an executive at a large medical center. She had never been diagnosed with any mental illness, and was in good health. Her suicide was completely out of character as she took care of herself and always wanted to feel and look good. Overall she was a happy person with a love for life.


Asked on 4/05/04, 10:57 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Armen Tashjian Law Offices of Armen M. Tashjian

Re: Drug Company 's Failure to Disclose Suicidal Side Effects in their Drug - P

Get me your mom's medical/psych records, including the death certificate and coroner's report, if any. I'll review it for you free of charge and let you know my opinion.

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Answered on 4/12/04, 11:17 pm
Mitchell Roth MW Roth, Professional Law Corporation

Re: Drug Company 's Failure to Disclose Suicidal Side Effects in their Drug - P

No. Your claim is barred by the statute of limitations. Beside, ten years ago you probably would not have been able to prove a case because it was not malpractice nor was the risk known and appreciated by the manufacturer and it was approved for use by the FDA.

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Answered on 4/06/04, 3:02 pm


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