Arkansas Sues Over Risperdal

The State of Arkansas today filed a lawsuit against Janssen and J&J over allegations that the company "engaged in a direct, illegal, nationwide program of promotion of the use of Risperdal for non-medically necessary uses." In other words, off-label marketing--specific charges would likely include allegations of the drug being marketed for use in elders and children, as well as in depression and anxiety, conditions and age groups for which the drug does not have FDA approval (it did get two pediatric approvals over the last two years, but this suit concerns allegations in prior years). This lawsuit had been expected for some time. The state did not specify damages sought, but it would likely be over $100 million in damages and penalties. The state has also made it clear that it intends to sue Eli Lilly, makers of Zyprexa, and AstraZeneca, makers of Seroquel, over similar allegations. I'll have more on this once I've seen a copy of the state's complaint, which I have requested, against Janssen/J&J.

According to the AP, Janssen had no comment.