Compulsive Gambler Wins Lawsuit Over Mirapex
437 CommentsBy Ed Silverman // July 31st, 2008 // 1:52 pm
A federal jury yesterday awarded $8.2 million to a plaintiff who claims that the Parkinson’s disease drug Mirapex caused him to gamble compulsively, according to Mealey’s Emerging Drugs & Devices. And the verdict came in the first bellwether trial in the Mirapex multidistrict litigation in the US District Court in Minneapolis. A second trial began yesterday, by the way.
Pfizer and Boehringer Ingelheim, which are also defendants, moved to separate the injury phase from the damage phase.
Gary Charbonneau says he was prescribed Mirapex in December 1997 to treat his Parkinson’s disease and stopped taking it in November 2005. He claims the drug caused him to become a compulsive gambler from March 2002 to February 2006, during which time he lost more than $260,000. And he aruged that Mirapex causes compulsive gambling and that the defendants knew of the side effect but did not conduct studies or warn doctors or patients. This is his lawsuit.
The drugmakers argued the FDA concluded after additional research that “available information does not constitute proof of a cause and effect relationship” between Mirapex and “intense impulse behavior.” And they maintained the four-year time difference between when Charbonneau started taking Mirapex and began gambling indicates “gambled as a matter of choice, not compulsion.”
Pfizer and Boehringer also insisted Charbonneau had risk factors for pathological gambling, including previous gambling, instances of significant winnings and easy access to gambling.
Paul G
Is this April Fools? No, I guess not, but it might as well be. Talk about personal accountability…where is it?
Unbelievable
I had a cup of Starbucks a couple of weeks ago and had a hard time falling asleep last night. That made me watch late night television and those infomercials. Bought too many things, you can say now I am a compulsive shopper.
theresa
i am so happy with this verdict i have suffered so much devistation taking mirapex since 2001 for r l s
nobody knows how the stress has affected us. Say what they may i never gambeled before mirapex. Married for 29 years the only time i gambled was during the 29 years was when we took a vacation to las vegas for 3 days.
since mirapex i cant seen to stop.
My whole day all i think about how soon i can go to the boats.and if i cant get out i gamble on line.
how can we all be wrong,all of a sudden hundreads of people all taking the same drug have developed
the same problem.Coincidence i dont think so!! thease billion dollor pharmacuital need to take responserbility for there neglergence
and stop reunion our lives we trust then to reserch there drugs so we are safe taking there products.
they get away with to much make there money thats all they care about.
Supremacy Claus
The verdict is deeply embarrassing to the civil justice system. It has no scientific validity, nor any logic, just based on the facts in the article.
But let’s assume, the verdict is absolutely correct, and we are in the damages phase.
The plaintiff lost a specific amount gambling. 1) Should any gambling winnings go to the defendant?; 2) Should the value of the benefit of the medication be deducted, and reimbursed to the defendant if exceeding the value of the lost? He had Parkinson’s disease. Say, it was bad enough to retire him. The medicine improved him, and allowed him to earn again, to enjoy activities, to have sex, to avoid placement in a nursing home, to go out as a tourist, to run about with family members, to be funny, to sleep better. Those benefits have value.
If the plaintiff gets to collect for his loss, but does not re-imburse the defendant for the benefit, the plaintiff has been unjustly enriched.
Laurie
Paul G….the company has this reaction listed prominently in the literature for Mirapex.You may feel it’s valid, but the manufacturer does. This information was added to the drug insert and widely reported in 2005.
http://bidocs.boehringer-ingelheim.com/BIWebAccess/ViewServlet.ser?docBase=renetnt&folderPath=/Prescribing+Information/PIs/Mirapex/Mirapex.pdf
“Impulse Control/Compulsive Behaviors
Cases of pathological gambling, hypersexuality, and compulsive eating(including binge eating)have been reported in patients treated with dopamine agonist therapy, including pramipexole therapy.
As described in the literature, such behaviors are generally reversible upon dose
reduction or treatment discontinuation.”
Lou
Is this latest news of an $8.2 million award true? I have not been able to find any other sources. I have called all the offices of law firm involved but all are on after-hours message service. IS THIS TRUE????
Paul G
Laurie,
Thanks. That is language identifying that cases have been reported in patients treated with this class of products, but as someone else said, the science is hard to understand and why gambling and not shopping Why gambling and not cleaning the toilet. Very difficult to discern.
Finally, if indeed that information is on the label, then the company disclosed the risk, therefore harder to prove it didn’t.
Finally as Claus indicated, what would the payments be? Compensation for gambling losses?
This is dangerous.
Ed Silverman
Hi Lou,
Yes, it comes to me from Mealey’s, as the attribution indicates. If anything changes or I learn of something additional, I will update accordingly, of course.
Regards
ed
Lou
Dear Paul,
Yes, there are those who have other compulsions. People have repainted their houses over and over again, refinish furniture non-stop, eating, shopping, porn, etc, etc, etc. The gambling cases are coming to the fore first because they are considered the most straightfoward in terms of calculating damages. That’s why this one case and two other bellweather cases were tried first as instructed by the judge … among the 420 others who are part of this multi-district litigation being heard in the Fed Court in Minnesota.
Lou
Dear Paul,
Presiding judge approved plaintiff’s pre-trial motion, with evidence presented, to allow claim for punitive damages.
daniel
Ministers, a doctor, two attorneys, bankers, and even a nun plus hundreds of other Parkinson’s patients endured years of hell because of Mirapex. Remember that Mirapex was on the market in 1997 and that the warning was not put on the medicine until 2005. Even with that warning, Boehringer Ingleheim continued to deny any causal link. Many, many lives were ruined–marriages failed, bankruptcies were declared, people committed suicide. Can you imagine suffering from a disease like PD and having a medicine prescribed for that illness unknownst to you causing such destructive behavior? Warning? There are hundreds of people who had no warning until their lives were ruined. At least now people will have the facts to decide for themselves if they want to take Mirapex and if they do they will now know what effect it can have on their lives. People have no choice about Parkinson’s, but they should have about a medicine that has the potential to ruin their lives!
Laurie
“Finally, if indeed that information is on the label, then the company disclosed the risk, therefore harder to prove it didn’t.”
” Remember that Mirapex was on the market in 1997 and that the warning was not put on the medicine until 2005. ”
There’s your answer, Paul. When you alter brain chemistry anything can happen.
Lou
And … a neurologist laughed out loud in one victim’s face in Summer 2006 when he asked if his new-found gambling compulsion might be linked to the drug.
The doctor laughed in my friend’s face at the very idea and then went on to ridicule him for gambling away every last penny in his life’s savings, retirement funds, his home, all his future healthcare and drug insurance coverage, while accummulating masses of new debt to gamble when everything else was gone.
The doctor went on to say that despite the warnings, there was nothing to it, that he and the hospital neurological unit he headed never had a patient with any such reaction.
He scoffed at the puported warnings and renewed my friend’s precription for Mirapex. Made my friend feel like a fool and his will to try another doctor.
And sure enough, when he sought a second doctor’s advice a year later, he was told the only option was brain surgery and so this doctor also wrote another sript for Mirapex and advised my friend to find other ways of controlling the gambling. He offered no help/advice towards that end.
And all this while he was still in the grips of the compulsion, sleep deprived, and hardly able to deal with the situation.
It took yet another consult, another year of gambling later, to find a doctor who would even agree to treat my friend without using Mirapex.
Not a pretty story, is it? Reasons why patients did not simply stop taking the drug aren’t so simple either.
How’d you like to go through that and be left with nothing to help you deal with a beast of a disease and find care for yourself in dark future it threatens.
Hard to argue that he was left in the dark and abandoned by the healthcare community somewhere along the way. His concern and active search for help and information fell on deaf ears.
Randy Simens
I prey this is true. Anyone that has suffered from the compulsivity problems induced by that “poison” (MIRAPEX). Might be able to get their life back. RS
Tracie Baruch
Those of you who are mocking these plaintiffs (VICTIMS) should be ashamed of yourselves. Before rushing to judgement and condemnation, how about conducting a little research? It’ll serve you well by decreasing your level of ignorance. I am a clinical and regulatory affairs specialist with 20+ years in the pharmaceutical industry. I know first hand about the potential for and common practice by big-pharma of manipulating pre-clinical and clinical data to demonstrate (skew) data in their favor. I’ve also been witness to the malicious practice of hiding and minimizing knowledge of adverse drug experiences.
My credentials being established, I’ve also read the first complaint to the US District Court of Minnesota, Civil No. 07-MD-1836, as amended Sept 2007. These are the 1st 15 plaintiffs in the Mirapex case. Putting all the legalese aside, the bottom line is that Pfizer and Boehringer purposely and maliciously hid pre-clinical, clinical, and post-marketing data from the FDA. This data unequivocally proves that the firms were well aware, even at the pre-clinical stage back in 1994), that Mirapex has the propensity to exacerbate obsessive/compulsive/pleasure-seeking behavior. This was documented by the firms’ investigators in both animal and human studies, not to mention data they received from consumers themselves via post-marketing reports of adverse drug events. READ the complaint, people! Review all of the literature citations! Then let’s revisit your ignorant judgemental comments.
Pfizer and Boehringer were malicious and greedy. Not to mention the fact that the firms are guilty of non-compliance with the statutes set forth in the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act.
The victims of Mirapex adverse drug reactions are truly victims. They and their families have suffered greatly- both emotionally and financially. Plus, let’s remember that they are sick to begin with– they have Parkinson’s Disease. They deserve every penny they can get from their litigations. If big-pharma wants to play, they better be prepared to pay.
You nay-sayers are too quick to rush to judgement, and you’re ignorant to boot. Next time, try reading the facts. Do a little research. You might learn a thing or two.
Glad I’m smart.
Lou
God bless you, Tracy. I have now seen the court documents online with my own eyes. The $8.2 million award and judgement against the companies is true and virtually all of that money is for punitive damages.
Now, we also must not forget, as we watch the progress of the next two bellweather trials and of the 400+ remaining cases that are part of this multi-district litigation related to Mirapex, THINK ABOUT REQUIP TOO!
There are many people who suffered the same compulsions and dire consequences on Requip (another dopamine agonist like Mirapex). Nobody is taking on their cases yet. Gotta figure out how that gets kick started as well.
Jane Akre
Tracie-
Would love to talk to your further about your background for Injuryboard.com.
Please contact me at jakre@clarislaw.com
Ours is a consumer website that covers many areas people need to know about to avoid injury.
Thank you!
jocinda
I am so glad this verdict came down. gambling was totlly out of character for me, i starting taking mirapex in 2000 then gambling was like going to disneyland everyday. the more i went the more i lost till it nearly ruined my life and 36 year marriage. if any one of you had this happen to you, knowing that the drug company intentionally lied about the dopamine effects, you’d be just as glad at the outcome.and you can be sure that what we went through to prvoe our case was not pretty.not to mention the embarassment telling loved ones your a 55 year old grandma with a gambling addiction. i am now on methadone with not nearly the relief as what i had with the mirapex.i pray no one else has to ever go through this.
jocinda
p.s. the writer stating that the pharmacuticals published the warning in 2005 for patients, is incorrect. i have a copy from my pharmacy from august 2007 with no such warnings.
Bartlow Hemoth
‘jocinda’, YOU are incorrect. In 2005, Boehringer Ingelheim did update Mirapex’s label to include reports of ‘compulsive behavior’. All it took me was 30 seconds of searching on google. Go to google and type in ‘mirapex gambling 2005′ and a wealth of information will be provided to prove what ‘Tracie’ states above. I find it aggravating that some of you are so quick to cast judgement, yet you are too ignorant to do any research at all.
Quote from article :
” … Boehringer Ingelheim updated Mirapex’s label in 2005 to include reports of ‘compulsive behavior’ among Mirapex patients…”
Link: http://www.newsinferno.com/archives/3430
All it takes is a few minutes for all you ignoramouses to do some research and find that everything ‘Tracie’ said above is completely true.
It’s unfortunate that the internet has made it too easy for all you fat lazy slobs to spew your ignorant and unfounded points of view. Next time, put the twinkies down and take at least 60 seconds to do some research before you speak from out of your butt.
Also, if the courts decision was so heavily in favor of the plaintiffs, don’t you think it was because of the tremendous amount of research the prosecution did to prove their points?
Sheesh, some of you should turn off your computer and go back to watching the Duke’s of Hazzard…
jocinda
you can do all the research you want, but in my files I have documents from my local pharmacy as well as express-scripts that do not in any way shape or form list compulsive disorders as a precaution. my advise is till you have walked in our shoes, you may want to reserve judgement. if your child were hit by a drunk driver and was permanently affected by the outcome would you be willing to walk away?
Laurie
Jocinda…What you experienced is common. The warning is on the drug insert that few patients get. There was no Medication Guide mandated for this reaction, so the only requirement was putting the warning in the drug insert, not on the information sheet from your pharmacy.
Barlow..take a breath….you’re attacking those that have expressed their support for this decision.
jr
I am so glad Tracie is so well informed. I was waiting until I completed all the comments to get really upset. I took Mirapex for 2 years and there is no way you can understand the devistation it causes. Sleepless nights, because you are either scared of what you are doing or trying to decide where your next gambling dollar is coming from. I am (or was) a well respected bank Vice President who has always conducted my business in a very responsible way. No credit, no overdrafts, no funny business. During Mirapex I opened every credit card (without my husband knowing) that I could I deceived everyone I could, anyway to get my next dollar to gamble. I walked the floor night after night worrying crying. That was the worst two years of my life and I lost everything we had and am in debt $200,000. plus. because of this drug. I’m not sure I would have believed it if I had not lived through it. My husband of 47 years is presicous. He has stood behind me through all of this. I know there are many who have lost their husbands and wives.
If you have not had to go through this DO NOT BE SO QUICK TO JUDGE, (IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU).
jocinda
thank you Laurie. this is all I will comment on the subject. to all those who have expressed their support, me and my family thank you.
Maxi
Lou, thank you for your info. Where can I view the actual court decision?
Tracie, your passion and commitment is evident.Thank you for your support. Having taken Mirapex for many years,I feel physically violated.I went from reading a book in a casino while my husband played,to the pack leader.People laughed when I first told them about a minor article that described the effects of the drug. It was like being possessed; sitting for hours at a machine;taking from Peter to pay Paul and never thinking of the consequences until reality set in. These companies screwed with my life and willfully hid the truth. The decision to take or not take Mirapex was mine;but it was cloaked in lies and insidious motivation. Who can we trust when greed is everywhere? Having Parkinsons since 1995 is a daily challenge;but having to bear the guilt of what I have done is sometimes unbearable.I pray for a grand slam decision;three trials that result in a major victory for all the plaintiffs.
karen
I was robbed by someone when I was not even looking. Everything, gone, I don’t understand how people who have not been effected by this terrible drug, have the nerve to get on here and judge us. YOU DO NOT HAVE PERMISSION TO JUDGE, I will only be judged by GOD, don’t mess around with a job that you are not qualified for.
“people who live in glass houses should not play with rocks.”
I know that I will be able to hold my head up a little higher when the facts are out about the winners in ths cases. I might even have a smile on my face for all the no sayers in my family. (on the way to the bank that is)
Lou
Hello, Maxi. You can see the court documents online by registering with ‘PACER’. The PACER Service Center is the U.S. Federal Judiciary’s centralized registration, billing, and technical support center for electronic access to U.S. District, Bankruptcy, and Appellate court records. There is a charge of 8 cents for every page viewed.
To gain access, you must register online at the following URL, after which PACER will send you a login and password by mail. That means
that you won’t have immediate access after registering online. (At least as far as I know; I am a first time user myself.)
http://pacer.psc.uscourts.gov/psco/cgi-bin/register.pl
karen
so Lou, can you tell us what this web sight says?
And does anyone know what will keep the drug company from filling bankrupt with all these cases and the first one is a good sign it is going to cost
Just wondering if I will get my hopes up and be let down again
Lou
Oops, my mistake! I just doubled checked and you can get almost instant activation of access if you provide credit card info when you register.
“Customers who provide a valid credit card or debit card number at the time of registration will receive access instructions shortly thereafter (usually in a matter of minutes). Customers who do not provide a card number at the time of registration will receive access instructions via U.S. mail.”
Please read PACERS User Policies. They seem to warn against sharing your login/password and the documents sourced there.
Better check with PACER. I know not.
Here are a few lines from PACER’s Policy:
“Access to Court iElectronic Records is supported by user fees. Any attempt to collect data from PACER in a manner which avoids billing
is strictly prohibited and may result in criminal prosecution or civil action. PACER privileges will be terminated if, in the judgment of judiciary personnel, they are being misused. Misuse includes, but is not limited to, using an automated process to repeatedly access those portions of the PACER application that do not assess a fee(i.e. calendar events report or case header information) for purposes
of collecting case information.”
Maxi
Lou….you’re the best. I followed your directions and now I have access to PACER. Undertsanding the whole system is a formibible task but what a resource. THANKS AGAIN.
Ed Silverman
To Maxi and others,
I have belatedly posted a direct link here to the Mirapex lawsuit. Apologies for not doing so sooner.
Regards
ed
Maxi
sorry..where is the link please
Ed Silverman
Hi Maxi,
Look at the bottom of the third graph, where the sentence ‘This is his lawsuit,’ is highlighted. Just click on that.
Cheers
ed
Belay
Great news!! I am convinced that the upcoming trials will have a favorable ruling.
Belay
Jocinda,
I think you have a point about the inserts from the pharmacys. Please email me at belayf682@gmail.com to discuss further
Thank you
Lou
Legal wrangling … check this out. Ouch!
http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/tortsprof/2008/07/plaintiffs-verd.html
Tracie Baruch
Tracie again. I’ve gotten some inquiries for more detailed information and here it is. First my disclaimer- I am not an attorney. I am a Clinical/Regulatory Affairs Specialist for the Pharmaceutical Industry. Thus, some of my interpretations of the 1st Mirapex complaint may not be completely correct. However, I do believe my understanding is pretty damn close. Below is a link to the first Mirapex complaint filed with the US District Court of Minnesota. It is Civil No. 07-MD-1836, as amended in September 2007. The reason they call it “amended” is because of the separation of compensatory versus punitive damages. That means that, while all of the 15 plaintiffs in this 1st trial were eligible for compensatory damages (money awarded to them due to injury, out of pocket expenses, medication, having to get a second job, etc.), they were not necessarily eligible for punitive damages (money paid to them for pain and suffering, and which represents the jury’s way of making a statement about the negligence and maliciousness by the defendant companies). Punitive damages, as decided by the Minnesota District Court, were based upon the home state of each plaintiff. That is the court’s way of making punitive damages fairly awarded. In other words, the court says that each plaintiff was “injured” in their home state, thus they should be awarded punitive compensation based upon the statutes of that home state.
Interestingly, each state in the US has their own laws about punitive damages. A state will fall into one of 3 possible categories: i) A state where punitive damages are not allowed at all. For example- Louisiana, Massachusetts; ii) A state where punitive damages are allowed, BUT, the plaintiff must prove Prima Facie first. This means that the plaintiff must first have a preliminary hearing showing that he/she can prove injury, or where the injury is plainly evident. In this case, once Prima Facie is proven, they are eligible to win punitive damages; and iii) A state where punitive damages are allowed, AND the plaintiff does NOT have to prove Prima Facie first. Some states have caps on punitive damages, others don’t.
This complaint is extremely important to anyone who is dubious about the EVIDENCE offered by the prosecution against the plaintiffs. Beginning on page 10 of the complaint, a summary of the history of Upjohn’s (now Pfizer) filing to the FDA is presented. This is what our resident nay-sayers should try to swallow. There are numerous citations, starting at the preclinical phase of investigation (in animal models, before it goes into humans) of compulsive behavior. These citations are from the preclinical investigators themselves (Boehringer’s investigators). One example from the initial IND filing: “…(Boehringer) stated that animals that had been treated with Mirapex exhibited stereotypic climbing and compulsive gnawing.” Continuing into the clinical trials submitted with the NDA filing, there are literally dozens of citations taken directly from the firms’ clinical reports of “increased libido”, “compulsive behavior”, “loss of ability to control compulsive behavior”, “anxiety due to gambling”, and “addicted to gambling”. The gambling citations are from 1998!!!!!!!
Peruse the evidence for yourselves folks, then feel your blood pressure rise.
So, any reasonable person will question how Pfizer/Boehringer can deny any knowledge of compulsive gambling? And how can they deny any causal link between the drug product and the adverse events?
I’m sorry if my rant is a bit disorganized, but the facts are right there in Complaint 07-MD-1836. Please check it out for yourselves. Here is the link:
http://thomsonrogers.com/files/Mirapex_Products_Liability_Class_Action_071128_Punitives_Mdl_order.pdf
Feel free to ask any questions if you have any. I love to talk pharmaceutical, and I really support the plaintiffs in this case.
Tracie
Bartlow Hemoth
Thank you Tracie for the excellent information.
In addition to the overwhelming factual data you have provided, I have to ask :
Where are the defendants ‘experts’ who should be rebutting all this information?
While Tracie and others are providing us with almost undeniable proof that Mirapex causes/caused compulsive behaviors (and knew about it); including uncontrollable gambling (even in people who NEVER gambled before); where are the expert witnesses for the defendant(s) who are supposed to be disputing everything?
On all the boards I have been on, the only people scoffing at the accusations (and the results of the first case) seem to be internet couch potatoes that have nothing better to do.
You would logically figure that if there was direct proof that could denounce the victims/plaintiffs claims, it would be posted everywhere; yet I find none.
Marie
I would like to direct my comment to “Paul G.”
Paul,
Speak not of which you know nothing about.
This drug has affected HUNDREDS of people this way. That’s why HUNDREDS of people have sued the drug manufacturers.
Next time you make fun of the plaintiffs, maybe you should count your blessings that you were not a victim to these money hungry drug manufacturers who knew all along that Mirapex had this side effect and yet intentionally failed to disclose it to the public.
Again: Speak not of which you know nothing about.
Billy
Tracie,
Thank you for your insight. Could you please email me at belayf682@gmail.com.
Ben Dover
Bravo Tracie,
Finally someone with the necessary intellect to represent those whose lives have been negatively
altered by pharmacutical companies that hide facts under the cloak of greed. Thousands of recipiants using Mirapex were literally destroyed by the side effects of the drug. Concealing the facts well known by these Phara companies it totally unforgivable. Concealing known facts regarding side effects that heightened compulsiveity is nothing but total negligance. Brave Tracie for your irrefutable evidence of denial of facts from the pharmacutical Companies.
Ben Dover
Tamara
No one should EVER take any drug of ANY KIND until they have proven that they have a minimum of two brain cells to rub together. Enough to spend some time actually learning about what they are about to put in their mouths. If John and Jane Q. Public could just remember the following things: 1) All drugs have side effects— ALL DRUGS. Is your problem really worth risking the chance you may suffer one of these devastating side effects? Really think about it before you tell your doctor you want the latest greatest thing advertised on TV. 2) Stop expecting there to be a magic pill to fix what ails you. There are precious few magical cures among the thousands and thousands of drugs on the market.
3) Drug companies exist to make money and they spend a lot of money on fancy commercials and ads to appeal to you. Don’t fall for it.
Philip
SUMMARY OF SIDE EFFECTS
CAUSED FROM MIRAPEX
Philip J. La Plante 6/5/08
12150 Vista De Cerros Dr.
Moreno Valley, CA. 92555
Hm# 951-242-7206
Cell# 951-543-8901
philiplaplante@hotmail.com
In January of 2000, I started to show tremors in both legs and left hand and rigidity in my
muscles and I had a hard time walking and standing for a long period of time. Being concerned about my condition, I went to Kaiser in Fontana, California, were I was seen by a Dr. David Rice a Neurologist. It was at this point that I was prescribed Mirapex to treat my symptoms.
In November of 2007, due to all of the pathological gambling, betrayal, lying, stealing and destruction to myself, my family, my wife and children and basically to everyone that I have ever known, I tried to take my own life (5150). The ultimate sin. I tried to stop all of this pain and agony to myself and my loved ones, I tried to take own life by overdose. I never thought for a minute that I could be in such a dark place like this that I would try to end my life. Some how before I had passed out, I had dialed 911 and asked for help and was taken to Redlands Community Hospital and put under a suicide watch and spent the next seven days trying to get back to reality and in the right frame of mind to function in my life once more.
Before all of this I was a very strong willed person, loving life at its fullest and very functional in life and financially stable.
In December of 2007 I went to a Gamblers Anonymous meeting and explained my situation, that I was compulsively gambling out of control for years and also talked about my condition with Parkinson’s Disease. After I was done talking, a member at the meeting that had been going to these meetings for several years mentioned that there was a another gentleman that was at a meeting a couple of years ago that also had Parkinson’s Disease and found out that the medication that he was on at the time caused him to compulsively gamble. It was from this point till now that I have been doing research on the side effects of Mirapex.
In February of 2008, I was still having problems with coping with all of this tragedy and turmoil that I finally broke down and suffered a nervous breakdown and was admitted into Loma Linda Behavior Medical Center for ten days. During this time, I was evaluated and put on medication that would help me cope with life. I knew that at this point I had given up and put my life in God’s hands, I had no were else to turn. It like I was in hell
The preliminary diagnosis was PD and was confirmed February 2008 with a live Dopa PET scan at UCLA. Dr. David Rice started to treat my symptoms with Mirapex. As time went on I suffered from numerous side effects caused from this medication like falling asleep while driving, loss of memory, shortness of breath, compulsive over eating, weight gain, 145lbs., insomnia, pathological gambling, swelling in my legs and feet, self-destruction, depression, anxiety, family, my career and etc
I want the manufacturer of this medication to be aware of the dangerous and life altering effects this medication has on myself and others before and after me who are suffering from the same or different negative and life altering effects. .
I have spent the past several years in a living nightmare. I had lost control of my life, my career and my marriage. I had destroyed everything that I had worked so hard to accomplish in my life.
My hope is that I can find an attorney who can help me.
Thank you.
Philip La Plante
To Tracie
Tracie,
I was diagnosed with Restless Leg Syndrome around 7 years ago. I am currently taking Mirapex and before that I took Requip. I developed a gambling problem around that same time. Could it be true that this medicine that I take everyday could be the cause of this monster that has ruined my entire life. OMG. Sorry I’m in shock right now. I have lost everything! My marriage of 21 years, my boys, my home. I lost everything that I Loved because I couldn’t stop gambling. I can’t stop. I’ve always wondered how someone who had no interest in gambling could all of the sudden become a compulsive gambler. I will be looking into this further and for an alternative medicine to take for RLS.
to tracie
to RLS believe it. You need to stop taking Mirapex. Your gambling will just go away. I was in this tairlspin for two years. Just suffer with your legs or drink tonic water with quine in it. My doctor told me about the tonic water and it does help.
Sandy Trahan
TO Tracie,
I am have RLS and took Mirapex from about a month after it was approved by the FDA until about a year and a half ago. I also am a plaintif in this lawsuit. I was elated at the outcome of the first trial and refuse to feel bad over the ignorance of some of these people.
I live in Texas and am ignorant of legal matters. I would like to know if there is a way to find out what my case #. I think it should be close to the 200 mark.Is there someplace that we can read the testimonies or about the proceedings of the day. I am a johnny come lately to this sight and have not read it all yet.Thanks a million for your very appreciated and professional input.
Sandy Trahan
Bartlow Hemoth
To SANDY TRAHAN,
Is this the case you are refering to “Trahan v. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. et al”?
If so, there’s 21 Docket entries. Latest one done on June 12, 2008 mentioning a “NOTICE OF ATTORNEY APPEARANCE/SUBSTITUTION for Pharmacia & Upjohn Company, LLC, Pfizer Inc., Pharmacia Corporation”
Your entire case is refered to as “CIVIL DOCKET FOR CASE #: 0:07-cv-03113-JMR-FLN”
And if you are signed up to PACER, you can read every docket/document here :
https://ecf.mnd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/DktRpt.pl?217487885954719-L_567_0-1
Hope that helps.
- Bartlow :)
PS - Each individiual case against Mirapex is listed here (you need to belong to PACER though):
https://ecf.mnd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/AsccaseDisplay.pl?92448
Emily Eden
Tamara,
It is quite obvious to me that you are one of those poor souls lacking one of the two brain cells required to rub two together. Your apparent lack of knowledge in the pharmaceutical and medical professions is quite incredulous.
It is crystal clear that Pzifer/Boehringer intentionally conspired to conceal the devastating results of clinical trials showing the drugs effect on compulsivity.
Mirapex proved to cause dangerous and life threatening results. Systems such as: loss of memory, shortness of breath, compulsive over eating, swelling of legs/feet, insomnia, pathological gambling and increased sexual desires. As far as “learning what to put in your mouth”, is it not time to open yours and remove your foot?
Should you become a diabetic one day, perhaps you should not take insulin for fear of “side effects”
For a more accurate and informative entry, read comments above provided by Tracie.
tracie baruch
Bartlow H.-
Thanks for giving Sandy T. the critical information she was looking for. I kept meaning to search her case on PACER, but my job’s been crazy busy! (Big pharma, ya know! ;)
Sandy T.-
I know you will find Bartlow’s information a great source of help and reassurance. I know you and all the other victims in this case will prevail.
I simply cannot wait for the 2nd bellwether case to conclude, and that could be any day now. Another stunning defeat to the defendants, right on the heels of the Charbonneau victory, will really cement the fact that Boehringer and Pfizer have blatantly disregarded the Federal Statutes governing the development, marketing and post-marketing requirements for new drug products.
Emily E.-
Kudos to you for putting Ms. Tamara in her place. After reading her ignorant, mean-spirited and uninformed post, I wanted to rebut (again!) but, obviously one cannot provide enough scientific evidence to satisfy some people. I just didn’t have the energy to repeat my initial statements and links to the published evidence to someone who obviously doesn’t read anything intelligent in the first place. So thanks for your well-informed blog.
Sandy Trahan
To Bartlow and Emily
Thanks amillion times over for leading myself and others in the right direction in this legal information. It was very helpful and appreciated.
I joined Pacer last night. They said it would be the 24th of this month before I could have access to the web sight I can hardly wait to see my exact * of filing and day to day info. Do you all think the most of us will actually get a 6 or 7 figure dollar amount. This is hard for me to digest.
Thanks again,
Sandy T
tracie baruch
Sandy T.-
So happy you are getting the information you need. Like I’ve said before, I’m not a lawyer, rather, I’m a Regulatory Affairs Specialist in the pharmaceutical industry. So, I’ll give you my opinion from a pharmaceutical industry point of view, with a sprinkle of my pharma-legal experience chocked in for good measure.
Fist, we must define the 2 types of settlements that a plaintiff is eligible for. The first kind is called “Compensatory Damages”. In layman’s terms, this means monies awarded to a plaintiff by the court to compensate them for expenses incurred as a result of an injury caused by a product (in this case Mirapex). In the Mirapex case, Compensatory Damages might be awarded for such things as money lost due to compuslive gambling, money paid to doctors or psychiatrists while trying to find out what was wrong, money because the plaintiff or a family member had to go out and get another job, and any issues that could be identified as ‘pain and suffering’ etc.
Here is a quote from lexisONE/Mealey explaining the exact nature of the Compensatory Damages awarded to Gary and Cynthia Charbonneau in the first bellweather case:
“The jury awarded Gary Charbonneau $204,000 for gambling losses, $175,000 for pain and suffering and $15,300 for ‘opportunity costs’. Cynthia Charbonneau was awarded $85,000 for loss of consortium.”
Link to source:
http://www.lexisone.com/news/nlibrary/m080708m.html
The second kind of award is called “Punitive Damages”. In layman’s terms, this means monies awarded to a plaintiff by the court with the intent of making a public statement about the magnitude of the damage done by the defendant/s. In other words, punitive damages are awarded in a lawsuit to punish the defendant/s and make an example of them by showing what happens to individuals or companies when they conspire to do malicious, evil and/or fraudulent acts. In the Charbonneau case, the jury assessed punitive damages of approximately $3.9 million against each of the defendants ($3.9 million against Boehringer plus another $3.9 million against Pfizer/Pharmacia). This information is also covered in detail by the lexisOne/Mealy article, link above.
One really important point to know about Punitive Damages is that they are regulated by one’s State of residence (the state where the plaintiff lives). Without going into superfluous detail, this means that some states DO NOT allow anyone to be awarded Punitive Damages at all, while other states DO allow Punitive Damages (via prima facie laws or not). Punitive Damages are a huge bone of contention amongst states, attorneys, industry/defendants and plaintiffs. You’ll see this topic almost any day in the media in articles, editorials and blogs about tort reform.
Anyhow, Sandy T, according to the first complaint filed with the US District Court of Minnesota (the Charbonneau case), Complaint 07-MD-1836, Link: http://thomsonrogers.com/files/Mirapex_Products_Liability_Class_Action_071128_Punitives_Mdl_order.pdf
in the state of Texas, “a plaintiff is not required to make a preliminary showing to allege punitive damages”. This means that your state DOES allow punitive damages, and you do NOT have to have a prima facie decision first. Bottom line, Texas = good for Sandy!
Now that I’ve (hopefully) explained the basic difference between Compensatory and Punative Damages to the best of my knowledge, I’ll give you my OPINION on what could happen with the majority of the 400+ upcoming litigations.
Unfortunately, we only have the Charbonneau decision to look at for precedent, pending the outcome of the 2nd and 3rd bellweather cases. That being said, the Charonneau decision is a GOOD precedent for the next 399 cases.
Insofar as Compensatory Damages, these will be hard for Boehringer/Pfizer to dispute and I would think they’ll be paid out to plaintiffs. Punitive Damages are another matter altogether. If the next 2 of the remaining bellweather cases are like the 1st, the Punitive Damages will be huge. With this in mind, Boehringer/Pfizer will have three options:
(i) they could just pay every cent of punitive damages to each successful plaintiff. This option is not likely.
(ii) they can file an appeal to each or selected cases. This will hang both the plaintiffs and defendants up in court for heaven knows how long. During the time of an appeal, I believe that the defendants do not have to pay out any monies at all. [Someone please correct me if my understanding is wrong.] Appeal is a risk:benefit decision that the defendants’ attorneys will have to make, based upon many variables such as the outcome of the 1st three bellweather cases, taking into account the remaining 397 cases after that, court and legal costs, media relations, board of directors/stock issues, etc.
(iii) the defendants can pay Compensatory Damages to each plaintiff, and then propose a settlement on the Punitive Damages.
In my mostly-ignorant opinion, I’m going with option number iii just based on a practical evaluation of the risk:benefit ratio. Of course, that’s what it’s all about, folks, the do-ray-mee MONEY! The defendants need to seek out the least financially harmful way to settle the litigations. In my thinking and pharma experience, that is option iii.
As an example of option iii, let’s say that John Q. Public is awarded a sum total of $6 million in Compensatory and Punative Damages. A likely scenario is that the defendants’ attorneys will say, “Listen John Q., you can settle with us now for a payment of $2 million, or we are going to appeal your decision. That, Mr. John Q., is the best we can do, or else we’ll all be hung up in court in an appeal during which you’ll have no award for an indeterminate amount of time.” Then John Q. and his attorneys will make their decision as to whether or not to take a settlement and for how much.
Based upon all the variables, I would think that option iii (a settlement) is the most likely and practical for all parties- PROVIDED the settlements are fair to the plaintiffs/victims.
Sandy, I hope this information proves helpful. Like I said, this is my opinion and I’m not an attorney. I welcome anyone to correct any of my interpretations of the law or pending cases, or provide additional insight as to what the final outcomes could be in these cases.
Just wanted you to know
As hopeful as the verdict of the Charbonneau case is, most people–even jurors–do not realize that large punitive awards areoften grounds for appeal; moreover, many states tax the punitive awards up to 75%. This high tax rate plus attorney’s fees and federal tax can leave the plantiff actually owing money. Compensatory damages, on the other hand, generally are not taxable. When the public sees these large punitive awards, they think the plalntiff is getting rich. Not true! More often than not, these awards can leave the plantiff owing money. So even as headline grabbings as a large punitive award is, larger compensatory damages are better for the plantiff.
Interesting Question
A question for Tracie. There are two states that do not allow collection of punitive damages.What do you think the plantiffs in these states will recieve if this law suit is won compared to the others.If all they can recieve is compensatory damages they will evidently fall short of anything near what the other plantiffs will recieve.
Emily Eden To: Supremacy Claus
TO: SUPREMACY CLAUS,
It has been proven that every village has its village idiot. What village do you reside? so that in my travels i may avoid that particular village in the event that Idiotism may be contagious.
Reimburse the defandants?. it is now apparent that said defendants intentionally conspired to conceal the dangerous side effects of Mirapex fount in their clinical testing. In thier quest for financial gain and independance, Pfizer/Boehringer bilked both the insurance companies and patients out of millions of dollars. The blatent withholding of test results are now quite transparant.
Reimburse the defandants? Is the air in which the village you reside in polluted with impenitent dust? For 8 years the defendants succsessfully deceived thousands of patients that had to endure Parkinsons and the dangerous side effects of Mirapex.
Reimburse the defandants? Additionally Mirapex is not to be ingested for heightening of patients pathological sexual appitite. Patients with Parkinsons unfortunately, will never “be able to run around with “family members”.
The facts are that parkinsons patients do not happen to “sleep better” they tend to only sleep around 5-6 hours at best.
What village is it that you live in again?
Reimburse the defandants? “deeply embarrassing the Civil Justice System” say thee. The only embarrassing thing here is your perception of the facts presented. Your “Dependants” have already been reimbursed to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars by willfully withholding Evidence. God must love “idiots” because he gave birth to so many.
Sandy Trahan
Tracie,
Thanks again for the info. I did sign up for Pacer butam slow to learn how to get around. I still could not find my case #. I will keep plugging.
Thanks a million,
Sandy
Grammar and Spell Checker
TO: EMILY EDEN
Hi Emily, my name on this board is “Grammar and Spell Checker”. Have you ever heard of me? Obviously not.
While I applaud your effort to answer the ignorance on this board, it’s obvious that you have not been around that much. On every blog/board on the internet there are stupid ignorant people that you can never win an argument with. This is because they are stupid and ignorant and no matter what you say, they will never listen. Best thing to do is to just ignore them; you only fuel the ‘ignorance fire’ with your un-thought-out replies.
Example: You wrote the word ‘defandants’ several times; it’s spelled ‘defendants’! You also wrote the word ‘transparant’, (which is spelled ‘transparent’!) but I think you meant to say the word ‘apparent’.
Word to the wise: First write your reply in a program where you can check the spelling and grammar. Once that is correct, re-read several times what you wrote so that you yourself do not sound ignorant. Then ask yourself, ‘is what I wrote really worth posting? Am I just adding to the ignorance of the forum, or am I contributing worthwhile information?’
In this case Emily, you did not do any of the above. Next time think before you post and heed my advice because your rants make you sound just as ignorant as the person you are pointing your finger at.
Migesh
For the naysayers, this is not just about gambling. Just as they don’t know why Mirapex seems to help some Parkinson’s and RLS patients, they don’t know why it also affects compulsive behavior. I as 50 when I started taking Mirapex, which I truly wish I could go back to, but I cannot. I had never gambled before, and I had maintained a steady weight of 175 for 25 years. Within one year of taking Mirapex, I started gambling and gaining weight. I very quickly became a compulsive gambler and over-eater. I lost everything I had, meaning more than money. I lost my job, my spouse, my health, and attempted suicide. The only thing I gained was 80 pounds. All of this in 3 short years after 50 years of NO compulsive behaviors. I cannot prove the relationship to Mirapex, but find it remarkably coincidental that all of this occurred within 10 months of my first Mirapex dosage. I am now off of Mirapex, and suffering from sever RLS, but have not gambled in 18 months and have dropped 40 pounds in that 18 months. If I thought that Mirapex was not partially to blame, I would be back on it in a second due to my RLS, but I cannot take that chance.
Emily Eden To: Grammar and spell checker
TO: Grammar & Spell Checker,
Let me thank you for correcting my spelling, however this is not a spelling contest. Now ask yourself, “Is what i wrote really worth posting? Perhaps, instead of criticizing my spelling you should address the real reason for this blog. The postings here address the results of a lawsuit that involved the intentional concealment of dangerous side effects of Mirapex. Thousands of patients suffered from the major side effect of compulsiveness. As far as i know, freedom of speech is still allowed in the United States.
Grammar and Spell Checker
TO: EMILY
Heed your own advice Emily. Stick to the subject of the blog. I personally don’t need to address any reasons for this blog because some of the people on it (not including yourself) are addressing it correctly for me by stating facts and backing them up with links to factual data. You, on the other hand, are just wasting time and space with your frivolous dribble.
Let the facts about the situation speak for themselves and leave the posting here to people who know what they are talking about.
Let me guess; you’re retired and/or jobless with nothing better to do than to sit around and read & reply to blogs that you know nothing about. You’re the type of person who needs to interject yourself into every topic that you can, even if you know nothing about it.
Even though I am straying from what I am suggesting you do, I will reiterate again that if you have positive input for the subject of this blog, then by all means post it. But don’t think you’re intelligent by copying and pasting what others have written before you and don’t waste other bloggers time by your ignorant, arrogant, offensive attitude. This is not a debate over someone’s intelligence; it’s a blog about the subject of the article “Compulsive Gambler Wins Lawsuit Over Mirapex” (scroll all the way up to the top of this page and re-read the title and the article).
Always remember, ignorance is never beaten by more ignorance.
Like my pappy always said: Ignorance is like poop; the more you add to it, the larger the pile gets and the more it stinks!
My last words of wisdom to Emily: Let’s stick to the subject at hand!
Thought you would like to know
To Grammar and Spell Checker, actually, “reiterate again” is redundant and grammatically incorrect.
Grammar and Spell Checker
To : “Thought you would like to know”
Thank you for proving my point by adding to the pile of ignorance on this blog. What you pointed out was so necessary for this blog’s subject; I don’t know how it could have survived without it. (If you can’t tell, I’m being sarcastic).
PS - I use Microsoft Word 2003 to check my spelling & grammar; go complain to Microsoft.
Cindy Vickers
Wow, I haven’t done a mirapex search in a few months and this morning look what I find. Yes, I am another victim of Mirapex. Gambling, hallucinations, attempted suicide, memory loss, etc. I too went through the embarassment and shame of the compulsive gambling and many other side effects. I have RLS.
I wanted to tell those who still suffer the meds I take now. My RLS symptoms are under control with this regimen.
CARBIDOPA 50/Levodopa 200 CR TABS -1 @ bedtime
GABAPENTIN 600MG - 1 @ bedtime
LORAZEPAM 2MG - 1 @ bedtime as needed.
Good Luck all, Cindy-Huntsville, AL
chancemax@aol.com
Emily Eden To: Grammar and spell checker
Bravo, You win the grammar and spelling test. I know from where i speak, my wife has Parkinsons since 1995. Please don’t insult my intelligence by making it look as if you are an expert in that field. If anything, it’s you that is wasting space and time by insisting to answer me with your insulting remarks. I’m a retired nurse that has treated many patients with Parkinsons. Where in your rebuttal do you address the heart of the subject of Parkinsons.
This Blog is to voice the results of the positive effects of the Courts Descision against the DEFANDANTS. it appears to me that you are the one that you may have nothing to do but attempt to show your knowledge or lack of knowledge in the area of Parkinsons. Isn’t your waste of time in attempting to criticize my spelling lack the whole concept of this forum? My comments here are not to argue about grammar, but to praise the Courts for awarding the plaintiffs what they truly deserve. Lets leave well enough alone, and let bygons be bygons. A truce is warranted here.
Quibbler
Spell Checker,
“frivolous dribble.”
I assume you meant drivel.
Given the content of your posts, it’s very difficult for me to keep myself from insulting you.
jocinda
hs anyone heard how the second trial is going?
Deb
Court is out till Aug 18th. I called MN District Court this morning.
Grammar and Spell Checker
To: Quibbler - Ouch! I’m so insulted! Now I won’t be able to sleep for weeks! :(
To: Emily - You’re still making many spelling errors. I’d hate to have you as a nurse (Although from the way you write, I’d bet my life that you are not even in the medical field, or ever were). I would NOT want you writing in my medical files!
Emily, the subject of this blog is NOT Parkinson’s disease! There are other drugs other than Mirapex that are given to Parkinson’s patients. The title is “Compulsive Gambler Wins Lawsuit Over Mirapex”. Its basic subject is holding ‘big pharma’ responsible for not releasing ALL the information and side effects from all their clinical tests. In this particular case, Mirapex was given to Parkinson’s and RLS patients without the warnings of the fact that their clinical tests showed a percentage of their test subjects experienced compulsive behaviors; such as gambling, sex and other compulsive disorders. I agree with you that they should be held accountable. Let’s just leave it at that.
laurie
Gee, I didn’t know that Ed left Grammar and Spell Checker in charge of telling people how to type and what they could post while he was on vacation..I must have missed that memo.
Deb
Tracie how does Oklahoma look? I’m one of the 200 plus…
Quibbler
Spell Checker,
Too bad Microsoft Office doesn’t include a brain.
Troll.
Innocent Bystander
Why all the fighting? This blog is meant to be used for positive purposes, is it not?
Quibbler: Shut Up and stay on subject.
Spell Checker: Shut Up and stay on subject.
Emily: Explain how your name is ‘Emily’ and your refer to your ‘wife’ as having Parkinson’s Disease. Since when is ‘Emily’ a man’s name?
Besides that, does anyone know if the 2nd case has settled yet?
Bartlow Hemoth
Looks like the present 2nd case is in process and will not resume until August 18th 2008.
Plaintiff seems to be ‘Robert M Zwayer’, if I am not mistaken.
Have access to Pacer? Then check out :
https://ecf.mnd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/DktRpt.pl?335850350305958-L_567_0-1
Emily Eden Ti Innocent Bystander
Is your name actually Incent Bystander?
Emily Eden Ti Innocent Bystander
TO Innocent Bystander, Why do you assume that we are Man & wife? Is it not possible that we are both women.
Innocent Bystander
Emily: People involved in same sex ‘relationships’ usually refer to each other as their ‘partners’. If 2 women are lovers, I would find it rare that one of them considers themselves as the ‘husband’ and the other as the ‘wife’.
Also, in your previous post (on August 14th), you infer that your name is not really ‘Emily’ and that you are using the name as a pseudonym; which probably means that you were trying to say that you are a man using a female name; and that’s why you mentioned your ‘wife’ earlier.
But give it a rest already. Stick to the subject of the blog.
I will not waste the other bloggers time by playing into your childish games; you don’t seem to know when enough is enough. You mentioned a ‘truce’ earlier to ‘Spell Checker’, so why not just shut up already?
One last note: If your ‘wife’ honestly suffers from Parkinson’s disease, my heart and prayers go out to her. But I feel even worse for her because she has to deal with someone like you on a daily basis.
unhappy
In reply to just wanted you to know.
This is how the breakdown of the 8.2 million would be distributed in your state taxed the punitive damage award.
8.2million
40% to Lawyers 3.3
75% to State 5.9
unhappy
40% Lawyer 3.3m
70% State tax 5.9m
——
9.2m
total award 8.2m
——
victim owes (1.0) Million
unhappy
What are the states that tax punitive damages?
harpy
I will not waste the other bloggers time by playing into your childish games
Too late.
Update
The second and third trials have settled. Terms undisclosed.
Deb
To Update: How do you know that? Do you have facts to support this?
LZ
Yes, 2nd and 3rd trials have settled-my sister works for the law firm handling the trials and she called me this evening. No amounts are being released yet.
Deb
When did this happen? I just talked to them on Friday??
marilyn
I, too, am a plantiff. I just hung up with the law office and they refuse to release ANY info including whether we won. I think the Judge slammed them so badly on the 2nd case that they all went into the “backroom” for a week to hammer out a deal. Will be anxious. obviously, to hear the details on this one. Do ALL states tax punitive….that is SOOOOO unfair. We are the ones that were damaged…for sure!
Bonnie Stassi
I was wondering if someone would give me name and #’s to lawyers that are taking this cases. I see through these messages I’m not alone,there’s help and hope. Thanks, Bonnie
Update
rkmc.com
delores warren
my laywer told me thatit would be 2009 at least until we heard anything, kind of a downer since i would think that the drug co would want to get it all settled also we looked on irs site and puntive no fica was not taken out of puntive . this is per irs site my laywer said the surpreme court on the case called levin might have a play in what would happen where do you feel we are from here? any update anyone has would be a help i was also told by minn ct that third case didnt go to court at all.first i feel as we will at least recoup our loses i lost my home, then i talk to my laywer and go down real quick as didnt get the feeling he thought we would win any big amount -me i just want a home again that what i want to recoup
THOOUGHT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Delores, I am so sorry to hear that you lost your home. I know the hell that mirapex has put you through, and I pray that all of us whom Boehrinlger Ingleheim has destroyed will prevail. I do hope that you and other victims will acquaint yourself with the next hurdle we might have to overcome. In November, the Supreme Court will hear Wyeth v. Levine, a case that could have horrible ramifications on drug litigation. Basically what this case will concern is federal preemption, or that drug companies cannot be sued if the FDA has approved a drug. The Court has already ruled such concerning medical devices. All this is really is Bush’s means of aiding big business at the expense of the individual. Do research on Wyeth v. Levine and you will see how Bush appointed Daniel Troy as chief counsel to the FDA. Troy had previously worked for the drug industry. He still does–he went back to work for Big Phama after his stint with the FDA. This is all the more reason that we must get a Democrat in the White House. Do your research on drug preempton, and I think you will agree.
marilyn bentley
To Delores Warren what law firm are u using? Is it in Minneapolis? thanks
marilyn bentley
Delores….Is yout attorney the one in Minneapolis?
delores
salkow in cal
Observer
To Emily and Innocent Bystander:
Why don’t the two of you take your feud elsewhere? This is not the site for the both of you to be constantly bickering about things that have no significance to the Mirapex case.
Observer
In regard to Levine testimony in the Supreme Court in November. If these Mirapex cases are settled prior to his testimony, and the outcome is negative, will it affect these cases that have already been settled?
tm
delores looks like you and i have alot in common ide like to communicate with you via email if thats ok with you
tm
tm
does anyone know why the levine case can change the outlook on the mirapex cases.
i thought this case was about how the warnings should read from( should have known about the risks and warned) to. (knew and intenionaaly withheld or misrepresented information.)
i beleive from the outcome of the first trial the lawyers were able to prove the latter so i beleive the mirapex lawsuites are valid… no matter what the outcome of levine
Justice in Michigan
tm - I haven’t followed this thread and so don’t know particulars of the Miraplex issues.
However, if Supreme Court upholds broad preemption in Levine, it is potentially applicable to all current cases. If Miraplex was FDA approved at whatever relevant time point - and whether or not it was proven that manufacturer withheld informaion - it would probably be preempted (e.g., a case would be dismissed) under broad preemption ruling.
That is why some companies are holding back settlements now, in the hope of using preemption to avoid _any_ liability later. In other instances, they are offering what they themselves call the “Levine discount.” Settle now, for less, or risk getting nothing at all after Levine decided.
BTW, case will be argued in early Nov., but decision not likely to come until several weeks after than.
Hopefully, this makes it clear my many of us see preemption as so serious an issue. There is, indeed, “nowhere to hide.” And there should be nowhere that candidates, of either party, are not obliged to make their own position clear. So far, that has not happened.
Justice in Michigan
To Observer - If cases have already been settled, I don’t think Levine could undo those. If somewhere in process, it is conceivable that company lawyers could appeal based on “preemption defense” and any settlement in the works would no longer be.
Harry B.
Here is some information on the taxability of punitive damage awards. If you are required to report the award you report the gross settlement and deduct the attorneys fees as a schedule A deduction which is subject to AMT. ——————————————————————————-
Individuals
Taxability of Damage Awards for Sex/Gender Discrimination
The Small Business Job Protection Act of 1996 (SBJPA) made significant changes to the Code exclusion-from-income provisions for damage awards resulting from personal physical injury or physical sickness claims. The SBJPA made two amendments that affected Sec. 104(a)(2). The exclusion for punitive damages was eliminated, even if the damages are paid as a result of a personal physical injury or physical sickness. (This was not the case under prior law.) Further, the SBJPA specifies that emotional distress is not intended to be defined as a personal physical injury or sickness. The result is that damages awarded in cases originating from gender discrimination suits will no longer be excludible from income.
While the SBJPA cleared up some of the confusion surrounding the proper treatment of damage awards received under a variety of circumstances and issues, it may have also created new issues and conflicts. For instance, it appears that the treatment of damage awards associated with age discrimination and wrongful employment issues may have been settled, while issues dealing with damage awards and settlements for emotional distress have been made more complicated.
Types of Awards
Several types of judgments are associated with legal actions giving rise to damages, including compensatory damages, punitive damages and prejudgment interest; also included are damages for pain and suffering, loss of consortium, back pay, payments for emotional distress and for lost wages or profits. To be eligible for exclusion from income, damages must be sought through some legal action, giving rise to a tort or tort-like claim. This definition has been the focal point for damages arising from gender discrimination lawsuits. The focus is on determining the nature of the underlying action that results in a claim.
In general, damage amounts fall into two or three classifications with a specific intent behind the settlement feature. Damages for lost wages or profits (or amounts received as back pay) are generally categorized as compensatory in nature. Compensatory damages are amounts received arising out of tort or tort-like claims and may be pursued under the applicable legal statutes (such as the Age Discrimination in Employment Act or Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 1991, as amended (CRA)).
Compensatory damages include damages for physical injuries, emotional distress and physical sickness. Likewise, damage amounts received for loss of consortium or for medical payments related to physical injury or sickness are also considered compensatory in nature. Amounts awarded to punish or that serve to prevent future behavior are generally punitive-type damages and are not received as a result of tort or tort-like claims. Punitive damages are more economic than personal in nature.
Title VII under the CRA provides for damages arising from gender or racial discrimination acts or both, as defined therein. Amendments adopted in 1991 provide for other remedies, including punitive damages and awards for pain and suffering (i.e., emotional distress). Under other similar statutes, damages include amounts awarded for wrongful termination, breach of contract and severance pay. Damage awards may also be paid as a result of actions brought for libel, slander and defamation of character, involving personal and professional reputation (which have been considered personal injuries in the past). Remedies for personal injury affecting personal reputation could include damages for emotional distress resulting from personal humiliation and shame. In general, the taxability of damages received is related to the underlying nature of the item for which the damages are paid.
Controversy of Damage Awards and Excludibility
Current law seemingly makes clear what is and is not excludible from income by specifically addressing punitive damages (no longer excludible) and by modifying the language in the Code that denies exclusion of damages received (except in cases that arise from only personal physical injury or physical sickness).
However, a close reading of the SBJPA Committee Reports reveals that damages received for emotional distress, when awarded as a result of an action originating from a personal physical injury or personal physical sickness, should still be excludible. Therefore, a plausible argument can be made that a damage award based on emotional distress is still an area in which the law may be challenged. Even though the SBJPA committee reports show clear intent that damage awards for emotional distress are not to be excluded, the symptoms of emotional distress take on physical characteristics (such as headache and nausea). Sec. 104(a) states that damages received (not in excess of amounts paid for medical care) attributable to emotional distress are excludible. In addition, damages received for emotional distress as a direct result of a personal physical injury or personal physical sickness are fully excludible. (Note: Currently, there is a proposal in the House (H.R. 1923) to restore the income exclusion for damage awards for emotional distress.)
Damage awards received for emotional distress (such as pain and suffering) have been held to be excludible from income in the past. This is so partly because of the interpretation of the specific wording of the statute prior to the SBJPA and partly because different courts have imposed different interpretations on the meaning of personal injury and sickness. Contributing to this confusion is the variance in court decisions about how damage awards for emotional distress are categorized. Some courts hold that damages associated with emotional distress are clearly personal in nature and, therefore, excludible, while others look only to the underlying cause of the action giving rise to settlement damages (and not the nature of the payment).
The courts reason that, if the cause of action is personal in nature, damages awarded for such claims (including punitive damages) are excludible from income. However, over time, the focus shifted to whether or not certain punitive damages should be excluded from income. Before any damage awards can be excludible from income, they first must result from a tort or tort-like action. Further, the remedies for such claims must be specifically provided for in an applicable statute (for gender discrimination, the CRA) and must be compensatory in nature (as opposed to punitive).
Two tests for determining the applicability of the exclusion have been established. The first asks if the underlying cause of action leading to an award is the result of a tort or tort-like claim; the second test asks if the damages awarded are “on account of a personal injury or sickness.” Both tests must be met for damages to be excluded. The reasoning goes to whether the damages are punitive in nature. If punitive, they could not, by definition, be personal in nature and, therefore, not due to personal injury or sickness. Current law changes the focus from looking to the nature of the settlement award to focusing on the nature of the underlying claim to determine if the award is excludible.
Current law denies exclusion for damage awards based on gender discrimination, because such discrimination does not embody personal injury or sickness, such damage awards do not stem from tort or tort-like claims, and the award itself does not compensate for personal injury. Even punitive damage awards for emotional distress are not excludible; punitive damages do not compensate injury, but are private fines designed to punish reprehensible conduct and act as a deterrent of future similar behavior.
Structure and Settlement Issues/Future Implications
It is clear from the history of damage awards that how amounts paid are defined or stated in a settlement agreement goes a long way in determining whether they are taxable. Potential tax planning positions may hinge on how well tax advisers craft settlements. For instance, proper tax treatment depends on whether structured settlements include compensatory (and not punitive) damages; these settlements should be structured, to the extent possible, so that the highest amount possible can be allocated to compensatory damages.
To the extent that specific statutes limit compensatory amounts and amounts considered punitive, only limited tax planning is possible. However, out-of-court settlements might be structured so that the taxpayer can gain maximum advantage. One would want to carefully consider the language and structure of the settlement terms (to the extent possible). Clearly, settlement awards from a personal physical injury or sickness should be structured so that the largest amounts possible fall under the category of compensatory damages. This would also apply to medical payments specifically associated with any emotional distress arising from a physical injury.
Damage awards received for gender discrimination will be fully taxable to the recipient, unless it can be shown that certain amounts are reimbursements resulting from physical injury or physical illness (such as medical payments for emotional distress). This is without regard to whether the payment is compensatory or punitive in nature. Only damage awards or structured settlements that include amounts designated for emotional distress are open to debate as to whether they will be taxable.
Conclusion
Currently, most gender discrimination settlements or awards are fully taxable, including damages awarded for emotional distress and punitive damages. With Congress contemplating changing this law in the future, it is important for CPAs to be keenly aware of current legal positions when advising clients as to the taxability of awards and settlements in gender discrimination cases.
From Arthur D. Cassill, Ph.D., CPA, Associate Professor of Accounting, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, and Rhonda Sugarman, MS, CPA, Product Development Manager, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Jersey City, NJ (Neither associated with BDO Seidman)
——————————————————————————–
2000 AICPA
delores
my computer has been down -tm yes by e mail deloreswarren@yahoo.com i was also thinking whatever the levin case outcome shouldnt have effect on whatever cases are already going olny the future cases after a date such as any cases filed after nov or dec . what do you think i just want it to be settled with what we can recoup of our hard earned money which if we had not been on mirapex we would still have. also i dont want to write the personal stuff that happened to me how i broke my mom heart and she has since died and i cant tell her my behavior was a direct result of the drug and i have to live with it every day of how i hurt my family .no amount can make up . 0
delores
my laywer sent me a letter saying the outcome of levin will be decided late 2008 or early 2009 and in their collective opion regardless of the outcome of levin with the recent trial victory in the charbonneau v boehringer ingelheim and pifizer will ultimately be the catalyst for a postive outcome in the mirapex litigation. this was wrote on aug 8 before sec or thrid trial so dont know if the last two outcomes helps us or not
tm
thank you justice in michigan
but here is another question the levine case i beleive is about changing the warning lable i guess to protect the future pharmacuticals cpmpanys from futher lawsuites
instead of should have known and warned about the risks to
new and intentionally withheld or misrepresented information..
i beleive the jury in the first case from what i read found them guilty on all accounts……..
so i was thinking
that no matter the outcome of levine the lawyers did a great job of finding bip guilty of the new warnings anyway am i right please answer asap thank you for your comment tm
tm
boy thease pharmacutical companys alway seen to wiggle there way out of everything now this levine case ..
there trying to avoid taking responsibilty for there negelance.
lets face it they knew the dangers of this drug and went ahead with it so they could make there billion and beleive me they did and still do make billions from it.They didnt care about whos life they would destroy after all they have big fancy lawyers who they hope will find a loophole to get then out of any mess.
God help anyone in the future if the levine decision goes there way if you are affected in any way by the drugs they make to bad.
If you lose a loved one if you suffer in any way
grin and bare it because there will be no recorce for you.
but they will go on making there billions proberly becomming more lapsed in there recearch of the drug because after they are not going to be accountable if.
lets prey that the supreme court looks at the negertive side of this dision and does the right thing because who knows maybe they will be in our shoes some day…..
Justice in Michigan
tm - I’m a little unclear about your question because of typos. But the case has been summarized on the blog many times.
In short, plaintiff claims that Wyeth should have unilaterally warned about dangers of injecting Phenergan by Push IV method. Wyeth claims such a warning was never requested by FDA, and even that it was considered and rejected.
So this is not a simple case - at least as compared with those where there this more definitive evidence of a company sitting on data which they should reasonably have made known.
The recent thread on “CBE requirements” - can a company issue such warnings before FDA officially “OKs” them - is directly related, of course.
tm
sorry .
justice in michigan about my typos not sure witch ones my question was strictly about about the levine case.
i beleive i now understand what thats all about.
thanks for your imput anyway.
Justice in Michigan
No problem - I hope it was relevant.
delores
i was just thinking of something my laywer said that it may have to have trials go to coourt i mean more than the first three trials i also wounder why the amounts of sec and third trials have not been made public and if more trials have to go to court when will that be does anyone have any in put or has heard anything you jnow at my age i dont want to have to wait forever as also i have liver diease and dont know what going to happen there but anyway we all want the same justive over what we know we are owed because if it wasnt for mirapex we would not have lost our live savings homes or whatever delores
tm
marilyn you seem like the only one who can give us an update if you dont mind i see you are in touch with some law office have you heard anything new
thank you
tm
delores
ther must be some information out there on where this is going next and what happened in the last two cases the more this drags on the more the drug compines should pay just for letting it drag on and everyone finances to get worse they need to settle so everyone can get on with their lives and put it behind us where are the news reporters now to give us information delores
delores
i just called the minn courts and they dont have a case with my name on it then my laywer tells me my case has been filed dont know whats going on does anyone know whats up with the cases thats supposed to be in the courts
tm
delores i just checked and your case is on there.
do you have pacer service
if so just type in your user name then password you will come to a screen you then select query type your last name in and a dozen warrens comes up look for your first name and you will see your case ok
looks like there are two cases one against bip the other mirapex product liability litigation. ok
tm
delores
my daughter in law called my laywer she said he sounded rude and young and wanted to know why i wanted my case no he said he would be surprised if this was settled by april 2009 he was rude saying we called him too much. he said i was 99.9 a person who was too much a bother too him . i just left him a message i wont call him again ime ready to hang it all up just because he supposed to be working for me . so whatever happens happens .but one way or another the drug co will lose as they have too much evidence agaist them. but the laywers needs to have respect for their clients i wish i had of gotten a laywer in my own state . so i would advise anyone who is just fileing to get a laywer from their own state as it all goes to the minn courts anyway
Deb
To Delores, I have been reading your messages and I wanted you to know that it takes time to resolve these kind of matters and I know our lawyers are doing everything they can to make it happen as quickly as possible. I truly believe that, they have been working on this for several years, that is why it will take time for it to finally come to an end that will be beneficial for all of us. I know the pain and suffering we have all gone through and my heart goes out to you and everyone else. But I truly believe we have won…We just have to wait now. If you would like to talk I am here.
tm
this is for TRACIE,
you certainly sound like you know your buisness with all your knowledge have you ever been approached by the lawyers to testify on behalf of us mirapex victims.
second what do you think of our chances with this levine case comming soon to the supreme court.
thank you tm
delores
on the google search levin case in surpreme court comes drug injury watch wyeth v levin tell about the case also some kind of petition which is sponsored by concerened citzens called americans for drug and device accountability has anyone seen this .. and what do you think about it
tm
deloras please send the link to me i would like to sign the petition we all should sign it.tm
delores
i went to google search engine i put in federal court levin case , comes up to where you come to this link ok let us know how you read this information
dekores
ops i mean supreme ct levin case sorry
tm
sorry deloras i searched but cant find it
delores
http://www.drug-injury.com/druginjurycom/2008/08/wyeth-v-levine-supreme-court-hearing-on-federal-preemption-of-drug-injury-lawsuits–various-parties-have-filed-amicus-briefs.html. try this
tm
ty found it tm
tm
not just mirapex victims but all americans should protest this preemption at the supreme court because it will affect all people who have to take drugs in the future.
if you- your kids- or grandkids are harmed in any way this preemption will protect the drug companys and they will have no recoarse.
maybe the congressmen in your state can help with this.
Sign any petition you can to protest it ,
its the least we can do to protect our future generations from thease non careing neglegent pharmacutical companys who are making billions at our expence………
tm
neglegent
marilyn
I finally spoke to an atty at my firm and all he would say about case 2 and 3 was that we did not lose. he said a letter will be coming and refused to discuss the amounts awarded. my husband and I think there has been a gag order put on by the Judge because this big award and news releases will taint a jury pool and alert juries what might be expected and what the drug cos can afford….which is ALOT! Also I think they may very well be squirrled away in a “back room” pounding out agreements to clean the docket. They can appeal but from what I have read this Judge is brilliant, witty and disgusted with the defendants and their deliberate attempts to lie in his court. If he made no errore there is is nothing TO appeal. I have read other blogs and one atty’s assist said they are prob offering to settle for smaller amounts and possibly clean the slate so they can start peddaling that poison again….have you noticed all their ads have disappeared? Good…less people to be ripped off!
jocinda
talked with rkmc regarding some records that came to me instead of them. I asked for an update and was told that the last two cases were on hold at the judges request. I also asked if a letter to the clieants would still be comming soon. (i received a call the day after the first settlement telling me of the ruling along with dollar amounts. then another call an hour later asking that i not mention the dollar amount to anyone, that a press release as well as a letter to each client would be distributed after the second case was settled)anyway, she told me that the lawyers are working on that now. i’m wondering if i was fed bull,or if anyone else was told this
sunshine
Marilyn, I would be interested in reading other blogs regarding this. I’m in Canada and hope our suit has the same positive outcome for us.
Can you list them?
marilyn
sorry I don’t know as I ran across them by accident. I have a Google alert on my pc so if Anything with the word MIRAPEX is in it , it comes to me right away. It’s handy and I can tell you there has not been ONE WORD since the first trial. I hope the Judge is not holding it up because he didn’t like the verdict. These people are so judgemental but they have NO IDEA what we have been thru.
marilyn
Jocinda, did you get the impression that the judge stopping the trials was a negative for us? I sure hope not…we’re already broke, I am an older person and frightened about my retiring ( fact is I can’t) and here we sit. if a jury thinks we should be re-embursed then let’s get on with it while I’m still alive to get some relief from it!
jocinda
i’m not sure what to think. i was told the defendant was able to choose the first case and plaintiff the second. obviously the defendant chose the one they thought would have a better ruling in their favor, and that the plaintiff would choose their best likely case to win. someone ealier in this blog suggested that the defendant lost so badly that the judge may have sent them to work the detials out and maybe they haven’t tried the third case at all
sunshine
My info is that the second and third trial were settled. I have no other details other than the amounts were not disclosed.
jocinda
thanks sunshine. with so much stuff out there, i guess it’s best to just relax and wait.
marilyn
It is hard though isn’t it to be patient when you’ve been thru so much because of this drug and there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon.
Bonnie Stassi
Would someone that is going through these court procedures please give me direction to a lawyer that is taking new cases. I spoke to RKMC the firm that has been involved. They reported that they are not taking any new ct’s. Thanks, Bonnie
Deb
Bonnie just put in your online search “Mirapex Lawyers” it will pull up a lot of firms that are handling these cases. You can also search for one in your state. Fill in your info on there website and they will contact you. Hope that helps..
TonyP
Does anyone knows is there deadline for filing Mirapex cases
Deb
Some states have a 2 year deadline. You can go online and pull up state laws for your state on settlement awards or punitive damages laws, there is a lot of information that might answer your questions.
TonyP
Does it fall under federal law
Deb
http://www.cga.ct.gov/2003/olrdata/ins/rpt/2003-R-0743.htm
Deb
http://www.atra.org/show/7343
TonyP
Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi just told me they are not taking any more cases
TonyP
Does anybody knows an attorney who still takes mirapax case
Deb
TonyP, I don’t know anything about this firm.
http://www.schmidtandclark.com/Mirapex/
They are taking Mirapex cases. There are several web sites on different firms that are involved with this lawsuit. I have been with
Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi for 2 years. I’m surprised they did not recommend a firm when you called them, you should call them back and ask.
Marilyn
I finally got the story on the cases today. The second and third cases were underway and the court took a week off in August. After the recess the defendants called a halt to the cases and they were settled w/o a jury. At that point the Judge told them he would let them know how he wants to proceed. I project we will get back our losses, some figure for damages for husband and wife and the Judge will set an amount for punitive which will be the same for everybody. He HAS to be sick of hearing the same garbage from the drug cos and knows all juries will swing the same way. They flat out lied. I hope they resolve it all soon, that’s for sure. God Bless Us All!
Marie
marilyn, that sounds very positive. how did you get that info? did they hint at your projection or is that your hope? any thoughts on a timeline? weeks, months, years?
Deb
Marilyn who told you the information? Was it Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi? It sounds great. Did any one read the punitive damages caps per state that I posted earlier. Some states don’t allow very high settlements and after you pay the tax and attorneys I wonder what will be left?
Lou
Hi. I also heard from someone who is one among the 400+ cases filed in the MDL-Mirapex action. She also heard from her lawyer that the 2nd case was settled, but that the 3rd was still going to trial. But, these different reports about the 3rd trial may just depend on what day the conversations happened. The judge seems to be moving things along.
Does anyone know anything about lawyers taking on Requip cases????
Lou.
TonyP
I have called every lawyer on internet, state bar and referral services NOBODY takes new MIRAPAX cases, I just wander why
Brenda
If future cases were going to be in a class action lawsuit would that be a reason why lawyers would not take new cases?
I too can confirm that the second and third case have settled. The lawyers are not sure what the defendants are going to do from here and there is a gag order placed by the courts. This is why we’ve seen no communication since the first case.
This blog has helped to fulfill the need for communication. Thank you everyone.
Marilyn
I suspect there will be no more cases because the time has run out to file. I never saw the disclaimer til over a year ago and called right away. Even then there was some concern because the studies had been out for a while. The ads on tv never mentioned the issue til last summer. My projection above is based on common sense and when I ran it by the person I spoke to she said she could not comment but sounded plausible. I assumed there was a gag order….they can’t taint further jury pools and they don’t want greedy hysteria. We have been vindicated before family and friends and that in itself is an act of God….he gets all the Glory from me.
Marilyn
P.S. Be sure and read the blog above by Harry B. It is a wealth of info as to how best to try and arrange any settlement. Thank you so much Harry…this will aid alot of people! I was esp. interested to read of the lost pre-judgement interest. In my case it would have doubled the actual losses. As far as shame and disgrace and pain and suffering, we all know ALOT about that!
Marie
Marilyn, You said it well!
“We have been vindicated before family and friends and that in itself is an act of God….he gets all the Glory from me.”
Amen! Monetary recovery would be nice and we certainly deserve it, but half the battle was won when we regained our dignity. I was almost placed in a 30 day addiction treatment center because family and friends thought my behavior was so “out of character”.
Bonnie Stassi
Please if anyone knows of a lawyer please let the rest of us who wasn’t informed till the last 6 months. I too have called everyone. Thanks, Bonnie
RMjr
there is probably a 2-year statute of limitations on these lawsuits starting with when the two drug companies began to directly and publicly acknowledge the potential problems and then placed direct warnings of the possible side effects and other conditions in their printouts and advertisings, something which they did in spring of 2006; that means that no suits can be successfully brought after a certain date in spring of 2008, which date is again set by adding 2 years to the date of the first formal acknowledgement of potential damage caused by the drug—once the warnings were made, no new actions accrued and there was a 2-year window to file suits on then-existing claims; that is why the lawyers are not taking any more cases. The other side of this is that if you have a case already filed, there can be no new cases to be dealt with, and the drug companies have a known number of plaintiffs to deal with and at least some incentive to get these settlements done. The pending Supreme Court case probably has to be ruled on first, but not necessarily depending on the strength of the first suit’s verdict—
anthony
the last comment isn’t exactly accurate. every state in which you reside has different statute of limitations; mostly 2 years, but some 3 or 4. and it starts when the plaintiff first knew, or should have known, of the drug’s side effects. that could be as late as 2007 when they started advertising the side effects on nationwide commercials. additionally, lawyers are taking on new cases, just being very selective, focusing on only significant and demonstrable gambling losses. the last case was filed last month on august 8th.
TonyP
I have lost over $2 mln dlrs over last 9 years i been on Mirapex for RLS. The worth started 4 years ago whet doctors double up dose from 0.5 to 1mg. I am wondering if 1 mg dose is enough for good solid case or they only take Parkinsons cases where dosage is higher
Unfortunately I can only proof less then 20% of losses. I finally found lawyer who is willing to see if can do anything for me now. The reason they stopped taking new cases it was some kind of development that may jeopardize all ongoing cases as well and they do not want to invest any more money in Mirapex litigation. It has nothing to do with statue. I think it has to do with Supreme Court case.
Chris
Preemption?
Deb
Will the up coming Supreme Court case effect the cases in MN that are suppose to be settled?
Bonnie Stassi
Tony, Would you be willing to share the name of the lawyer as I have not had any luck localing one. Thanks, Bonnie
Marilyn
Does anyone who really understands the ramifications of the Levine case know if the Supreme Ct decision would only affect state courts or would it ruin the Federal cases also? In the Mirapex case they hid and lied about the damaging effects after they became known by the drug companies. Would THAT make a difference in the way a decision would effect whether it could be tried?
tc
marilyn,
ide like to know the answer to that two.
preemption leave our kids and grandkids without any recourse if they get hurt by a drug.where is justice for all
TonyP
Bonnie Stassi
If he will take the case i let you know
anthony
i think this supreme court case is a bit of a red herring especially in this case. the basis of levine is that the drug company shouldn’t be held liable for fda approved drugs. but in this case, the companies “defrauded the fda,” by supressing information, hiding adverse effects during clinical trials, etc., etc.. hence, the ruling that punitive damages can be awarded to plaintiffs living in states that allow for such damages. additionally, even if the supreme court overturns the lower courts and rules that drug companies can’t be sued in certain circumstances, there is no way it will be applied retroactively to cases already filed.
heather
levine case goes to trial now 3
heather
levine case goes to trial nov 3
Marilyn
I wonder if the US Supreme Ct ruling will affect us here in Canada.
TonyP
Bonnie Stassi
Please contact me by e-mail sc432003@yahoo.com
TonyP
I also wandering if organization like Kaiser Permanente would have some responsibility in the meter as they prescribed Mirapex and dispensed in their own pharmacy without any kind of warning
Daphney
Update to all involved,
First trial we won as we all know, 2 & 3 trials were settled out of court.
There is going to be a 4th trial, fall of this year. This trial will not effect previous settlements.
They have not decided how any of us will be paid from the settlements.
No money for at least a year.
Marie
Daphney, Thank you for the update… Good news / Bad news — Sounds like it all depends where each of us stand in the process queue. Which case, #1 or #4 or both, will set the precedent for any possible settlements for the rest of us? Will another year of pain and suffering from financial ruin be considered? Is the need for a 4th trial confidential for some reason? There are so many unanswered questions.
Daphney
Marie, I was not told the reason for a forth trial, only both sides agreed. They have not picked who it will be. But we are in fall so it should be fairly quick. Reason for the wait on any settlement awards is that it is not over yet. They have not decided on how each of us will be awarded so it is still up in the air and down the road. Forgot to tell everyone I was also told the “Levine” decision will not effect us. For those of you who have not been able to find a lawyer for this I was told there were only 2 law firms that were orginally involved in these cases. I do not know about another year of pain and suffering if that will be considered. They did not say. Only that it takes along time for these types of cases to be settled and they feel this case has moved very quickly.
tc
update…
sept 4th under new cases
minn district court.
olsen
berg
mirapex
tc
go to minn district court
under new cases.
dont quite understand.
olsen 9/4
berge9/2
scelta 9/2
tammy rothwell 8/25
mirapex
R.H.
These people are sick yes thats very true the horrible tremors the stiffness the pain cannot sleep cannot hold on to nothing big or small hold your new grandbaby no way life as you knew it is gone now you must see a doctor and boom your on Mirapex .5 at first hey this is great iam getting better so ill drive somewhere nice day hey theres a gambling hall been by there 10 years never stopped but now something calling me thing ill play 20 dollars just once famous last words 250.000 dollars later lost EVERYTHING Money home wife cars now broke sick but i have this lawsuiit to all people involved lawyers judges etc SETTLE THIS quick these people need HELP I NEED HELP ????
R.H.
I totally agree
R.H.
I totally agree with every thing Tracie has said god bless you
Daphney
R.H., I totally agree with you! I lost everything too! But what can we do? I was only giving info that I was told. Thought it would help everyone. I did not mean to upset anyone. I feel bad now. Sorry everyone! Thar’s what they told me.
tc
for all who have pacer services go to your case and under dockett check your case there is a new report you might like to read.
there is a mirapex cases conference on sep 25th at the minn district court.makes interesting reading.
Marie
tc,
Interesting! But I only found the report on the lead case docket (1836) which was the 1st jury trial. The last posting on my individual case docket was 6-12-08. Do you think that report is all inclusive?
tc
dont know what the problem was maybe this is for the first cases filed. give me your case number or last name i can check for you
R.H.
Daphney You were only trying to help nothing wrong with that we are all in this horrible thing togeather like it or not
E.C.
tc, Could you please outline what they say about the Mirapex conference on September 25?
For some reason I cannot find it.
Also, Does anyone know anything more about the forth trial?
Thank you all for the info given to this blog.
This life has been a stuggle for most of us, but it is nice to at least have an idea of what is happening with the cases.
candle
4th actual trial was supposed to go oct 20, but might not if the 120 cases going on the 25th pan out well.
tc
ok
they are holding a conference on mirapex at the court on sept 25 to see which cases have been settled which have not and if there is a likelihood that another bellweather
trial will be needed on october 20th
ok thats it hope it goes well for us we deserve it god only knows
Harry B.
tc
how do we know what cases have been settled i thought only the 3 cases tried were settled. please enlighten me on this issue. thanks
tc
i dont know what cases have been settled i am only reading whats on the report the reason for the conference,thats what the judge wants to know what i stated above.
when that conference is over there will proberly be a dockett report stating the outcome anyone with a pacer will be able to view it.
thats all i know hope it helps………god bless us all
jocinda
was anyone told by RKMC that a letter would be going out to the ones they are representing after the second trail? I was told twice, and by my account we should have gotten one by now.
E.C.
Hi Everyone, How do you know if you are in the 120 cases that will be the focus on the 25 of September Mirapex Conference?
tc
ec what is your last name i can check for u
tc
actually 1st and last name
Marie
tc, are you using pacer to check? where do you find the 120 names?
E.C.
tc, could I e-Mail my first and last name to you?
Regards,
E.C.
Jocinda, yes I was told the same
tc
sure
ec
limey4ever9@gmail.com
tc
marie yes anyone can e mail me if they want me to check ok
Daphney
I was told the same thing till I called again lasr week.
j.zung
please check if i am on the 400 name list thank you
E.C.
Has any of the 120 heard from anyone?
Cindy Vickers
TC can you check for me? Cindy Vickers Huntsville, AL chancemax@aol.com
Thanks, I don’t have a credit card anymore so I can’t sign up for PACER. Thanks for the info from all of you. I am with Robins/Kaplin and I haven’t received any letter at this time.
Observer
a friend of mine is Robins/Kaplin also and has not heard anything at this time. Although with all I have been reading here it sounds positive, and yes, those that have suffered have been vindicated!
Observer
a friend of mine is Robins/Kaplin also and has not heard anything at this time. Although with all I have been reading here it sounds positive.
SP
I am like everybody else that has had problems with mirapex. I like to read about what is happening with the trials. I do have one question maybe someone can help me with. Where did the information about 120 cases being settled by the 25th of September come from. Was someone told this by their lawyer, from Pacer or from some other source? I have not been able to locate where it came from. Please someone help me with this if you can. Steve
tc
yes steve the informatiom is in the dockett report in pacer services
tc
jocinda
dumb question.. if 120 cases are in the Sept. conference, what about the rest, and by what basis were these chosen.
SP
TC, Do you have a court document number. I am having trouble finding the right document containing thhe meteting on the 25th of September. Thanks, Steve
tc
no court number steve only found in in my dockett report sry tc
Jane
tc, Would it be possible for you to copy relevant section(s) of the pacer report you found about the September 25th meeting and paste here in the comments?
Jane
tc
sorry june am not able to do that
SP
Jane this is what I found on Pacer about the Sptember 25 meeting.
United States District Court
District of Minnesota
IN RE: Mirapex Product Liability Litgation
Civil 07-MD-1836 JMR/FLN
Notice od Case Managment Conference
To All Councel of Record
Pursuant of Rule 16 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and Local Rule 16.4 of the Local Rules Procedure for the District of Minnesota, a case managment conference in the above captioned matter will be held on September 25, 2008, at 2:00p.m. before Magistrate Judge Franklin L. Noel in the chambers at Suite 9W United States Courthouse, 300 South 4th Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
No later than five (5) days before the conference, the parties shall submit to the court in camera a joint statement desribing in detail the status of the cases. In particular the joint statement shall describe:
1. Which cases are settled;
2. Which cases have not;
3. The likelihood that another “bellwether” trial will be needed on October 20, 2008.
Dated: september 8, 2008
s/Franklin L. Noel
United States Judge
This is everything 100% complete that I could find about the meeting. Does this help you out with what you wanted to know?
Steve
Observer
Steve:
What is the significance of the 120 cases scheduled on the September 25th docket? Since they have to present what cases have been settled and what cases have not been settled? All this legal stuff gets confusing.
SP
Observer, I don’t know of any significance to the 120 cases. I was just tying to find out where that number came from becuase I can’t find it in the court documents anywhere. I think we would all like to be as close to the front of the line to having our case settled. Just so we can bring a closure to this nightmare that has been controling our lives.
Georgia
WEll!! After all the grammar and other non pertinent comments does any one have symptoms like mine, i.e. insomnia, compulsive buying, and depression. I have been taking mirapex since 2004 .
Thanks Georgia
Daphney
Thanks Steve for your information. I think we all just want to know the truth and facts. If we would just get an update from our lawyers we wouldn’t have to be on this blog. But it has been very helpful and I know I am not alone. Most of you have really been great and I thank you!
Observer
SP:
Thank you for your response, I really appreciate. I think everyone involved is starting to get a little bit anxious and would like an end to come soon. Thanks again. It sure has been helpful to read all of the blogs and know no one that experience this nightmare is alone! Let’s hope we hear something positive soon.
R.H.
Georgia yes all the symptoms you have I have plus and bye the way as the dosage of mirapex increased the symptoms increased and as the dosage went down so did the symptoms until no mirapex no symptoms very simple right no its not at all you still have to deal with Parkinsons and the mess Mirapex has made of your life
limey
funny you mentioned the lawyers they get the big bucks from there clients yet we blog to get information and updates sad ide say……..what are we paying them for
Jane Carswell
sp,
Thanks so much for looking up and sharing the info re: the 9/25 meeting; very much appreciated. I wonder if the 120 are as listed in US District Court, MDL, Mirapex, Reports, 5/30 Report, page 16. (The first 120 cases filed or listed?
Jane
Bonnie Stassi
Is there anyone that can help me find a lawyer. I’ve gone to several, fees up to 1500.00 to investigate. Gone to the State Bar and they are no help. Went on site and there doesn’t seem to be anyone there either. Tony P. I have e-mailed you but haven’t heard back, did you get it? HELP!!!!!Thanks, Bonnie
Marge M
Hi, all, first time on this blog, I am also a Mirapex victim. I have just this past week got off it, my RLS is so severe I haven’t been able to sleep without a small dose (0.625 mg) of Mirapex along with 800mg of neurontin. Not only developed a gambling addiction but addicted to Mirapex! I have struggled over the past year trying to get off Mirapex, many visits to a sleep specialist, sleep studies etc. etc. Finally dr prescribed a narcotic, oxycodone, as replacement and so far so good, although I am worried about taking a narcotic. I haven’t gambled (except for one small misstep) for 18 months but am very, very broke. Luckily I stopped BEFORE I lost my home.
Any more news on the lawsuits/settlements etc? I am with Salkow of CA. no word since letter advising first lawsuit won.
observer
The cases are merged into groups according to time filed.
the first 15 was charb zwayer dodd and we know what happened there.
lookes like to me each group will either be settled if not go to court one by one in november.
either way looks like we will have to be patient this could be long ride.
the charbobonneau case is being appealed by the defence they beleive it was excessive and that punitive damages were not warrented.
we are not supprised are we this company will try to wiggle there way out..
excessive i dont think so!!! the only excessive thing here is the money we all lost because of there drug.
i pray for justice for all mirapex victims and there familys who went through pure hell….
no amount as far as im concerned would be to much.
Bonnie Stassi
Is there anyone who has a case filed that would be willing to ask their lawyer who they would refer those of us that don’t. Bonnie
Keith
Where do you live? That might make a difference.
Bonnie Stassi
Keith, I’m in Illinois
jordan
is the meeting still on sept.25
Sue
Check out the commercial on TV for RLS and Mirapex. They readily say (now) that it can cause gambling problems and increased sexual urges. I was on Mirapex for RLS; didn’t do a thing for the RLS. Thank God it didn’t, considering the fact I enjoy going to casinos OCCASIONALLY.
observer
i see judge noel canceled the conference meeting that was at 2pm today re mirapex.
anyone know why it was canceled.
louie
Thanks for following for us Observer….I don’t know how and we all need whatever news is available.
Observer
Observer:
Where did you get your information?
SP
The meeting that was cancelled. The cancellation was listed on Pacer. It waa a very short letter or order cancelling the meeting and it was signed by Judge Noel.
SP
I am thinking positive about the cancelled meeting that was to be on the 25th. I think the meeting was canceled because Judge Noel got all of his questions answered in the letter for both sides that was to be submitted to Judge Noel by the 20th of September.
SP
My last coment should read “from both sides and not for both sides”. Sorry about the spelling also.
observer
i here some cases were settled now there waiting for the judge to decide
whats next…..
Interested
Would this be part of the 120new cases that have settled or are they talking about the two that had settled prior the 9/25 hearing, which Judge Noel canceled.
TonyP
Does anybody knows how many cases were filed all together and what insurance company going to pay for damages
SP
Tony, there are 389 total cases filed to date. There are still cases being filed, the last two cases were file on 9/22/2008. The number of cases being file has slowed way down. In the last 30 day there has only been 5 or 6 cases file.
Marge M
SP, where did you get your information? From Pacer? I can’t afford to Pacer so any info is a great help. I am one of the 389 I believe but have no idea where I fall in that group.
Interested, where did you hear that 120 cases had been settled? All I have found online only mention the first three.
SP
Marge, Yes the numbers came from Pacer.
Marge M
SP, do you have the capability to look up cases by individuals names on Pacer? If so could you look up my name, Marjorie A Mahan?
Bonnie Stassi
Will someone tell me how to look up on Pacer the most current filed cases? I want to see if I can if a lawyer to take my case. I’m in Illinois and I still have not gotten anyone t6o even talk to me. Thanks, Bonnie
Keith
Not sure there is an easy way to do this without knowing the names of the plaintiffs.
Why don’t you try contacting a representative from the lead plaintiffs counsel (listed on the MDL website) and ask if they know of anybody who might still be taking cases?
SP
Marge, I looked in Pacer butI never saw your name on the list, but there are alot of names to look through and I could have missed your name. What is the month and year that your case was filed? If I have that I can double check.
Bonnie, Log on to Pacer, Minnesota District Court, Query, Case number 0.07-cv-03839-JMR-FLN,
The window then gives you a choice to select associated cases, and this will give you a list of all the cases filed in this court.
The lawyers that file the case on 9/22/08 were Clyeo Arnold and Kirk Wolden, Sacarmento, CA 916-924-3100
rvgypsy
SP
Are you sure that you read on Pacer that 120 of the cases had been SETTLED? Please read again.
Marge M
SP, I will have to contact my lawyer, I damn well better be in there somewhere! I don’t know when they filed my case, I have been with them since November fo 2006.
anthony
marge, if your attorney is richard salkow, why don’t you call him up and ask him all about your case. i would think since you have been a client for almost 2 years, salkow would have at least told you if your case has been filed and have been giving you periodic updates. salkow has dropped a lot of clients at the last minute after stringing them along for years, so i would recommend finding out as soon as possible.
anthony
marge,
i looked over the names and you are not in group one, two, or three. so unless salkow filed your case very late - meaning recently - your case is not filed yet as far as i can tell. maybe i missed it, or there is another explanation, but i would call salkow right away to make sure.
Keith
Any chance it was filed in state court and allowed to stay there for some reason? In other MDLs, there have been state court cases that were not consolidated.
SP
RVGYPSY, I never said that 12o cases were settled. From the very first time I heard about 120 cases being settled I have questioned this. I have never seen anything in Pacer about any cases being settled other than the first bellwether case that went to trial in July of ths year and was won by the plantiff. Back on 9/10/2008 on this blog I ask if anyone had any solid evidence about the 120 cases that are being taked about. Know one came up with any concrete evidence, so I came up with the feeling that this was speculation only until I see some documents showing me any diffrent. I believe that the second was settled as well as the third case also. I hope that there are more cases settled.
rvgypsy
Apology, please. I misread it.
observer
anthony.
Im alittle concerned about the comments you made about salko dropping clients .Do you know this for a fact if not the comment should not have been made.It will cause alot of stress on all his clients and god knows they have enought stress from using mirapex………..
maxi
this is my understanding after speaking to Mr. salkow.Please don’t kill the messenger..I asked many questions but his aswers were often abrupt and unclear. If you reside in a state where the companies are situated the you should be in the federal court in that state. For example Pfizer has Ct. roots and I live in Ct.. That would mean I wouldn’t be able to have the representation that I have on this scale since there were no lawyers willing to take this on. Salkow has an agreement with the Minnesota firms about representation and settlements. According to him I will never find my name listed in the docket but i will be represented in a settlement. If anyone has a comment based on fact please share.
Keith
Perhaps he has filed a multi-plaintiff case so that individuals are not listed.
anthony
observer,
you are right that my statement might have stressed some of salkow’s clients whom he has left in the dark. i’m sorry for that. i just wanted to stress the importance of getting answers from him because as maxi stated, he is often abrupt and unclear. why would he keep his own clients in the dark? and yes, i have first-hand knowledge of being told one thing by him for over 2 years, and another thing being the reality. some one else i know was told wrong info by him. there seems to be a concerted effort on the plaintiff’s attorneys’ parts to discourage new filings as well. i just don’t want anyone else continuing to think everything is fine when he hasn’t even filed for them yet.
maxi,
do you know if salkow has an agreement with a minnesota firm for the plaintiffs or defendants? and he said you won’t find your name in the docket but you will be part of a settlement? maybe you should ask him specifically if he filed your case and where is the documentation that he did so. i’m sorry, but this whole thing seems ridiculous how everyone has to scour the internet for basic information on their own cases, and their attorneys tell them nothing.
anthony
observer,
you are right that my statement might have stressed some of salkow’s clients whom he has left in the dark. i’m sorry for that. i just wanted to stress the importance of getting answers from him because as maxi stated, he is often abrupt and unclear. why would he keep his own clients in the dark? and yes, i have first-hand knowledge of being told one thing by him for over 2 years, and another thing being the reality. there seems to be a concerted effort on the plaintiff’s attorneys’ parts to discourage new filings as well. i just don’t want anyone else continuing to think everything is fine if he hasn’t even filed for them yet.
maxi,
do you know if salkow has an agreement with a minnesota firm for the plaintiffs or defendants? and he said you won’t find your name in the docket but you will be part of a settlement? what if the defendants decide not to settle except with a select few plaintiffs? does that mean you don’t get your day in court? maybe you should ask him specifically if he filed your case and request the documentation that he did so. i’m sorry, but this whole thing seems ridiculous how everyone has to scour the internet for basic information on their own cases, and their attorneys tell them nothing.
maxi
I will go after more information tomorrow.Thanks for the support.
jocinda
the meeting was cancelled, settlements were offered. were all getting srewed BIG TIME!!!
observer
hey jocinda.
what exatly do you mean by all getting screwed can you explain exatly what you mean by this as its rather a strange statement…….
hl
i have to say its quite pathetic how some people can make such obsurd statments, none which is based on fact, just to worry others and get them down, as for those on here from the pharmacutical co, please stop and go away from here, and stop distracting us, our lawyers are busy, let them do they’re job, and stop getting us to try to call our lawyers for you to get info.
hl
also everything i just wrote is strictly my opinion to the obvious, i fully support the victims of the mirapex
Migesh
For Georgia, I was on Mirapex from 2001 thru 2006. In addition to an immediate onset of uncontrollable gambling, I also had significant weight gain (80 pounds) after a steady weight for 25 years. My insomnia, partially from RLS, got significantly worse, as did my depression. Mirapex was teh best relief I ever had for RLS, but will never go back to it at any dosage, despite the fact that I have suffered from severe RLS for the last 2 years. Nothing else has given even 1% relief. I lost all my possessions, my wife, my job, my health and nearly my life (failed suicide) due to this drug. I hope the people that see these legal actions as frivolous attempts by irresponsible gambling losers, can understand what a life altering affect Mirpaex has had on all of us.
louie
Migesh……….I hope your suit was filed
mcr jr
I know Salkow is working hard on this case and it has his full attention. He is knowledgeable and experienced in these types of cases. Obviously he does not have the time to work on the many cases and answer constant phone inquiries regarding the plethora of misinformation being exchanged on this and other websites. We need to let him and the other lawyers alone and let them do their jobs. This is an inherently slow process and it must be managed within the Rules of the Court and the work must for the most part remain confidential until it is finished. It is fine to exchange information if it is reliable but to start second-guessing based on rumor and/or suppositions does no one any real good. The lawyers have my complete confidence, and I am a lawyer.
anthony
mcr,
i’m sure everyone’s worries are allayed now that we know you are a lawyer, but try not to distort the issue. no one suggests that the attorneys should address random questions based on misinformation. we are talking about answering BASIC information such as if he has actually filed a case for HIS clients. if you are a client that is happy with, and confident in your attorney, that’s great. i’m sure there are many who have no complaints. but if there is a person who has had a lawyer for two years but isn’t even certain if his/her case has been filed yet, they should at least make sure, wouldn’t you agree? or maybe whenever someone has a concern about their case, they should just close their eyes and hope for the best…
observer
we are all trying to be patient and understanding but its hard when we see that cases have already been settled and wonder who decides which case goes first all of us have suffered from this drug what makes one case more important than the other??
And why shouldnt we know where we stand and not be left in the dark…
so please understand its the not knowing that is realy hard for all of us.
jocinda
i am a mirapex casualty. was one of the 120 that was scheduled for the confrence that never was. i was offered a ridiculous amount and am rejecting it. was told my my aty not to discuss with anyone, but everyone needs to know that there is some serious hanky panky going on here.
observer
jocinda thank you for the info can i ask who your attorney is
observer
also can you tell us exatly what you mean by hanky panky going on .
i think i speak for all us victims you have raised our stress level tremendously by this statement.
jocinda
RKMC, just that the offer came in very quickly and i was told not to discuss our convesation and that i would not be told how the second two cases were settled. guess i’m just reading between the lines. don’t want to scare anyone, but if you think your stressed, your not alone. i don’t want to chance posting on this site anymore, so good luck to all, be strong, god bless
observer
jocinda.
we are all in this toghter so if you would like to talk to someone im here for you.
limey4ever9@gmail.com
anthony
jocinda,
i know what you mean about the hanky panky..i just call it shady. if you want to discuss it confidentially, email me at asceltajr@aol.com
anthony
i thought the bellwether trials were to be used as a gauge for both sides to use as an informative tool to negotiate possible settlements. how are we to make an intelligent decision on what is an appropriate figure to settle on when info on 2/3 of the bellwether trials is hidden from us? seems as though the plaintiffs attorneys are putting the other side - the drug companies - in a position of strength because they have all the info to work with and we have a mere fraction of it. its possible that the attorneys are ordered by the court to keep this info confidential, which i feel would be patently unfair. apologies in advance for those who feel stressed over me pointing out this obvious inequity.
TonyP
This are cases that been filed so far
Group One:
Selinsky 06-873
Zwayer 06-874
Dubaich 06-875
Nelson 06-876
Webb 06-898
Harms 06-899
Estep 06-900
Conway 06-901
Scharpen 06-1206
Charbonneau 06-1215
Cain 06-1582
Quintela 06-1675
Fayard 06-2144
Dodd 06-2145
Averitt 06-2194
Group Two:
Courtney 06-2546
0B6-lo2o5m77
A n d e r s o n 0 6 - 2 5 7 8
Frye 06-2662
Harris 06-3009
Hayward 06-3180
Neal 06-3182
Bronson 06-3254
Seaman 06-3255
Vingers 06-3284
Conejo 06-3519
Erickson 06-3526
Kite 06-3527
Wagner 06-3537
Haughey 06-3539
Rush 06-3544
Group Three:
Milam 06-3778
Kanuch 06-3839
Berger 06-4358
Mayer 06-4366
King 06-4502
Konrad 06-4699
Purser 06-4783
Goldman 06-4784
Holmes 06-4785
Saracco 06-4827
Stutz 06-4828
Deleo 06-4869
Markel 06-4871
Shows 06-4949
Glancy 06-5123
No Schedules:
Celorie 06-4868
Chamberlain 06-4870
Pearce 06-4944
Michels 06-4945
Emery 06-4946
Brown 06-4947
Gage 06-4948
Lee 07-39
Buckstein 07-591
LaBella 07-592
Berlow 07-655
Newton 07-656
Campanale 07-658
Amavisca 07-845
McKinney 07-846
deBrito 07-847
Maisch 07-886
Smith 07-888
Kozielecki 07-890
Hearn 07-973
Carroll 07-974
Gray 07-975
Telebar 07-1073
Chandler 07-1074
Walker 07-1075
Fleischman 07-1076
Wheeling 07-1144
McKee 07-1145
Manson 07-1146
Ham 07-1176
Storey 07-1177
Carlton 07-1178
Maras 07-1179
Schnaser 07-1293
Thurston 07-1294
17
Rohman 07-1305
Camacho 07-1646
Hanson 07-1647
Lungo 07-1664
Corsaro 07-1665
Warren 07-1666
Munn 07-1669
Kiesz 07-1670
Rosenwinkel 07-1671
McKee 07-1694
Hosford 07-1695
Bensinger 07-1696
Leiberman 07-1697
McIntyre 07-1698
Nelson 07-1704
Vastano 07-1705
Nickla 07-1706
Nichols 07-1992
Mace 07-1993
Davis 07-1994
Allen 07-2125
Ovalles 07-2126
Hayes 07-2127
Otto 07-2128
Bigelow 07-2321
Nardacci 07-2474
Pentima 07-2475
Phillips 07-2476
Cunningham 07-2516
Pachuta 07-2517
Morinelli 07-2518
Rosenstine 07-2519
Samuels 07-2520
Allen 07-2684
Lamb 07-2727
Preston 07-2728
Mulvihill 07-2729
Iberg 07-2730
Elrod 07-2731
Casarez 07-2732
Centeno 07-2733
Losh 07-2942
Link 07-2949
Polk 07-2950
Regalado 07-2951
Wadsworth 07-2952
Hoffman 07-2953
De La Rosa 07-2954
Burnell 07-2955
Belinsky 07-2956
Johnson 07-2957
Abkarian 07-2964
Simon 07-2965
Shah 07-2966
Jones 07-2967
Davis 07-2968
Sanders 07-2969
Borello 07-2970
Engleka 07-2971
Karlson 07-2972
Gilbert 07-2973
Bradford 07-2974
Krolczyk 07-2975
Willhite 07-3023
Girbau 07-3024
Durffee 07-3025
English 07-3026
Hoole 07-3027
Major 07-3033
Rodriguez 07-3034
Schropp 07-3035
Hill 07-3039
Kurzawinski 07-3055
Welch 07-3056
Hoeppner 07-3057
Risi 07-3058
Veverka 07-3059
Kennedy 07-3060
Enders 07-3061
Chavel 07-3062
Debaud 07-3063
Augustine 07-3064
Randles 07-3065
Flagg 07-3066
Patrick 07-3067
Auger 07-3068
Bottiglieri 07-3077
Livingston 07-3078
Jackson 07-3080
Andresen 07-3082
Shafer 07-3093
Klevan 07-3094
18
Jennings 07-3095
Konen 07-3096
Lucarell 07-3097
Lazevnick 07-3098
Summey 07-3099
Braun 07-3100
Palmer 07-3101
Bische 07-3102
Modafferi 07-3103
Steckel 07-3104
Coates 07-3105
Glascow 07-3106
Gray 07-3107
Manjarres 07-3108
Merritt 07-3109
Orrantia 07-3110
Mills 07-3111
Trahan 07-3113
Paolella 07-3114
Weaver 07-3115
Williams 07-3116
Witte 07-3117
Jones 07-3118
Martin 07-3124
Gilliam 07-3125
Modica 07-3126
Vickers 07-3127
Frisina 07-3128
Jiminez 07-3129
Reade 07-3131
Patterson 07-3143
Hyter 07-3144
Still 07-3145
Staples 07-3146
Ankiewicz 07-3147
Davis 07-3148
Brinkley 07-3149
Buenaseda 07-3150
Mansfield 07-3151
Tapscott 07-3152
Roberts 07-3166
Grubidt 07-3167
Bradshaw 07-3168
Emerson 07-3183
Baldwin 07-3256
Bedrossian 07-3257
Macabuhay 07-3258
Versluis 07-3259
Gibson 07-3260
Gibson 07-3261
Russo 07-3262
Semer 07-3263
Kessler 07-3264
Simmons 07-3267
Smith 07-3284
Sutton 07-3285
Spangler 07-3286
Jaeger 07-3287
Plummer 07-3288
Cruce 07-3289
Felber 07-3290
Hauss 07-3543
Downing 07-3544
Sturm 07-3545
Barrido 07-3546
Hahn 07-3547
Maile 07-3651
Burbridge 07-3654
Bracken-Hof 07-3655
Gerard 07-3656
Migesh
Any news on the Sept 25 meeting cancellation or the 4th case in October ??
hl
does anyone know FACTS on the 25th sept cancelation? i have not heard on it, and nothing has been rescheduled, i wonder b/c i know it was supposed to be an important meeting and seems strange, maybe something good is in the works. thanks
Interested
BEWARE - THE DRUG COMPANIES HAVE PEOPLE ON THESE SITES MONITORING THE DISCUSSIONS!
george
WHO CARES WHOS MONITORING THIS SITE!!!
we tell nothing but the truth on here
we are victims of mirapex and for most of us it has reunied our lives.
sad we cant talk to each other here
without worring about whos reading it
louie
Jocinda……what did they offer you? was it close to the first case?
george
louie lets face it if the offer was close to the first case would she be complaining????
E.C.
Does anyone know about the potential for income taxeS if these cases do settle?
SP
E.C. Yes, in my state punative damages the tax rate for state and federal tax is around 42%. Compensatory damages are not taxed as a general rule. But you need to check with your accountant.
For example if you got $1,000,000.00 punative damages awarded to you. You would pay 40% to your attorney or $400,000.00. The taxes 42% on the balance $600,000.00 would be $252,000.00. Leaving you $348,000.00 to spend. But remember you have to pay the attorneys misc. fees (copys, travel, court fees, & so forth)on top of that to, so your slice of the pie will be pretty small.
Also about the small settlment amount offered that is just part of negotiating, don’t be discouraged, just throw the drug company an offer just as rediculous the other way.
Good Luck to everyone. Yor had your bad luck now its time for some good luck.
Keith
Not sure if this information is current or accurate:
http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Taxes/AvoidAnAudit/WinInCourtWithoutLosingToTheIRS.aspx
“… most courts, including the U.S. Tax Court, held contingency fees to be a creditor’s right, a right to be paid by you, as the attorney’s client. In such cases, the entire award is included in your gross income, and is taxable.
Here’s how important this distinction was. Let’s say you receive a taxable award of $1 million and have to give your lawyers 40%, or $400,000.
If your case is in a state where the fees create that lien we talked about, you were facing getting taxed only taxed on $600,000. However, in the second case, you faced tax on the whole $1 million.
But how about a deduction for the $400,000 paid to your attorney?
Yes, you get the deduction, but only as a miscellaneous itemized deduction. So first, you have to itemize, which you might not have had to do in the original instance. More importantly, your miscellaneous itemized deductions must be reduced by 2% of your adjusted gross income. So, if you had no additional income (a very conservative assumption), you lose, at a minimum, at least 2% of $1 million, or $20,000 in deductions.
The Supreme Court recently resolved the dispute. The court ruled that the legal fees are only allowed as a miscellaneous itemized deduction.”
As a misc itemized deduction, it would also be subject to AMT.
hl
does anyone know why its so quiet in here?….im a victim of rls drug mirapex and i check often for any info possible. thanks..hl :)
TonyP
I was prescribed Mirapex by Kaiser Permanente doctor and Kaiser pharmacy filled the prescription many times over. They till this day do not have any warning on pharmacy information page they give you with medicine..
Would Kaiser insurance bear some responsibility also for what happened to me in last 10 years?
My attorney strongly suggested to file claim against Kaiser but i can’t find anybody to do it for me. Any suggestions?
Bonnie Stassi
TonyP Did you find a lawyer to take your case? I’m still struggling with getting someone. Bonnie
TonyP
Bonnie have you tried Clyeo Arnold and Kirk Wolden, Sacramento, CA 916-924-3100 SP told you about 2 weeks ago
Bonnie Stassi
Tony,I’ve called, had to leave message, haven’t had call back. I hope to call them again on Friday. Also,where has everyone gone? I was hopeful for others and those of us that are still struggling with getting someone to help us. I want to believe there is justice. Thanks, Bonnie
TonyP
Bonnie try Lee A Weiss
Dreier LLP
499 Park Ave
New York, NY 10022
212-328-6100
He just filed new case
Bonnie Stassi
Tony, I thank you. I’m off tomorrow and will start with them first,
Peter Shepherd
Here in the UK I was prescribed the dopamine agonist Cabergoline from October 2000 (at age 50) until late 2007, for my Parkinson’s Disease. Daily dose started at 0.5mg, rising gradually to 4mg. It improved mobility and tremors, but caused severe compulsive / obsessive disorders: massive gambling, spending and hypersexuality, totally taking over my life 24 hours a day. Increasing in problem severity as doses increased.
Previously I was a quiet, successful middle class IT consultaant, with a large house by the sea on the south coast of England.
As a direct result of this drug I lost my job, house, Jaguar and TVR cars and about 400,000 UK pounds. I now live in poor rented accommodation in a dangerous part of the city.
I discovered the link between dopamine agonists and compulsive / obsessive disorders on the Internet purely by chance, BY MYSELF, in late 2007. Prior to that NONE of my medical advisors had EVER mentioned this.
As soon as I stopped taking Cabergoline all desire to gamble, spend excessively or indulge in excesssive sex stopped completely, and I returned to the same quiet gentleman I had been up until 2007.
Unfortunately I have lost EVERYTHING in the meantime.
Peter Shepherd
Whoops! the last-but-one sentence should have said “… up until 2000.”
Sorry!
interested party
peter,
i am so sorry to hear about what happened to you while taking dopamine agonists.
we have all been through the same thing as you.
lost everything from this drug.
dont you have any recourse in your country can you sue the drug company
like they are over here,
you need to contact a lawyer and find out what you can do the drug company is at fault and you should be compensated for your loses,
having parkinson is is enought for you to suffer you shouldnt have to suffer from this horrible drug.
i realy hope that there is something you can do. take care.
Lou
Hello, everyone. It has been a long while since I posted, and I am glad to see continued postings here. The info I’ve been getting consurs with all that’s been posted here.
This is the best place that I have found online for exchange of information. I am a little worried that we will contact with each other if this blog is closed. In that event, there is a message board at this link that we could use. Any other suggestions?
http://www.mirapex.citymax.com/home.html
steve h.
Isn’t there another trial starting this wwek in Minnesota?
Marie
I am reading through all these comments and am so deeply saddened. Living this life has been a nightmare. My husband has been taking Mirapex since 2001. The true gambling affects were not apparent until November 2006. We had just refinanced our retirement house so we could use the money to remodel it. I was working a lot of hours and he was retired. He had time to go to the casino when I wasn’t home. In one week, he managed to gamble away everything we had cashed out on that loan plus more. One night, I literally watched online as our bank account was being overdrawn $200 in a time by him- totally helpless and praying it would stop soon. When confronted, he would always say that he had only been to the ATM two or three times but in reality it would be until the bank quit giving money. He was obsessed and even though it caused major problems in our marriage, he would sneak off. I finally told him I couldn’t continue to live like that and we separated. Keep in mind we have been married over 20 years. I never even considered that I couldn’t trust him with money in our joint account. He even gambled away money that was paid in advance for rent from our daughter’s roommate. We got separate bank accounts finally and I contacted an attorney in CA who, at that time, was willing to take the case. When it came time to send in out info, my hubby insisted that I not file because he was too embarrassed and besides he “didn’t have a problem”. Without me living with him, he quit taking all of his medications and soon became ill. I moved back in to help take care of him and got him to the Dr who insisted that take his meds as prescribed (of course he did not tell the Dr he had a gambling problem, because he still didn’t think he did).. Fast forward: Here I am nearly 2 years later, we have used all my 401K, refied the house again, maxed the credit cards, and remodeling in our small house is still not complete because we never could get caught up. Keep in mind that we make decent $ and do not live beyond our means yet everything has gone to cover the bills that couldn’t be paid because the bank account was drained due to the gambling over and over again. All this time we have been on this roller coaster. It is extremely difficult to leave someone who is sick especially when you have been with them this long and there is no one else who will help to take care of him. I confronted him on many occasions, threatened to leave and we fought over it all the time. Each time he denied there was a problem until about a month ago. Again, he had hidden his losses and drained the bank account and FINALLY admitted that he had a problem. He said he felt like he “needed” to go and that he couldn’t control it and that when he did go, he lost all track of how much was lost. For the person who asked the question about the winnings… anyone that has ever gambled knows that the odds are in the favor of the house and that if you gamble enough, you do not come out ahead. Now, we have been turned down by 3 attorneys. I never realized there was a statute of limitations on filing. Guess it wouldn’t have made a difference if I had since he is just now admitting it. He has gotten off the Mirapex but is still taking the other 2 drugs and we are exploring other options. I find it hard to not be bitter that everything we have worked for in more than 20 years is gone! I find it difficult that I have to take control of all the bank accounts because I can’t trust him.I can only hope with his new awakening, that our life can be at least somewhat more sane and we can begin rebuilding again. I wish the best for all of you who did file- you and your family deserve every penny you get …and then some.
anthony
marie,
how do you know the statute of limitations has run out? depending on where you live, it could be 2,3, or 4 years since you discovered mirapex was linked to your hubby’s gambling. people are still filing as of a few weeks ago. by the way, which attorneys did you contact and what reason did they give for not taking your case?
Marie
Hi Anthony- I am in Texas- I don’t “know” that the statute is up…infact- I found this site we are on right now trying to find out what it is. Is it not 2 years in Texas? I have known for 2 years although, convincing him has been difficult. He has been off the Mirapex for a few days and it was interesting to see his reaction just this week as I read the accounts of others to him. So many of the people with the same problems: lying to cover up, sneaking off, not being trusted with money or access to accounts, feeling of being in a “fog”, marital problems and huge debt. I guess all this time he thought he was the only one. Anyway, here are the attorney’s I contacted via email.
I contacted the original firm that I contacted in Feb 2007. Sherman and Salkow, CA and got the answer that Mr. Sherman has passed away and we are not taking any more Mirapex cases. Next 2 I found online with the search for “mirapex lawsuit”
Schmidt & Clark :”Thank you for your inquiry. We are a national law firm that represents persons who have been injured by the negligent actions of others. We are no longer accepting these types of cases. Therefore, we will be unable to accept representation in this matter. You should be aware that all cases are governed by strict statutes of limitations. You should continue your search for representation lest your case be barred by the statute of limitations in effect in your state.” and the last one was from legalview.com. Response was sent from Brent Coon and Associates “After reviewing the information you provided, we regret to inform you that we are unable to assist you with this matter. This decision is based upon a criteria evaluation involving the type of claim, economics and jurisdiction that our firm utilizes in determining the acceptance of claims. Please understand that although we are unable to help you with this case, that does not mean that you do not have a case. Another lawyer may be able to represent you in this matter. Please be advised that the statute of limitations varies from state to state, and if you are still interested in pursuing this matter you should contact an attorney in your state immediately, so that your right to sue is not lost”.
Do you know the statute of limitations for Texas?
anthony
hi marie,
i think in most states, it is two but ask an attorney to be certain its two in texas. lawguru.com also is a good site to ask questions.
you think you can prove your case with bank statements, etc.?
Marie
hi anthony,
It would take a little homework- I know we had three accounts that were closed before 2008 that I would have to go back and look for. In ATM debits at the Casino for this year alone out of our joint account is over $11,000. This is not counting at least $4000 that was his “hidden” account”. Money from this account came from the sale of used cars from time to time- I don’t have a clue what is/was in that account. I know that he had traded a vehicle to his son and the difference was $4K. On one of my rants about the gambling when I had to deposit money to cover part of the bills, I asked if he still had that money- he said “yes”. The next day, I made it to the mailbox first and saw the bank statement- it was all gone. That statement has since “disappeared”- but could easily be gotten from the bank. As for any winnings- there are not any major corresponding deposits to show that they were gains. What specific details would I need?
Alex
Marie,
You would have to go to casinos where he was doing most of his gambling and ask for profit/loss statements. Also any credit card statements with cash advances in casinos will be big help, but keep in mind that most of the attorneys looking for at least 150,000.00 in losses which can be documented.
Bonnie Stassi
Alex, It was interesting to find out what the lawyers are looking for an amount which has never been told to me. I appreciate your input on how that needs to look when your approach the lawyers. That maybe why I have not gotten any where. The unfortunate part for me and others, we may not have had that much but spent all we could get to. I maybe short $25,000. Do you have any other information that could help us really poor folks, who didn’t have $150,000.00 to start with. Thanks so much!!!!! Bonnie
hlw
does anyone know whats in the works for the mirapex case and any possible settlements this month in the works? also any info if its coming to a close soon? thanks hlw.
roberto
can any one confirm that court has ordered a 11/18 deadline
hlw
yes they did according to the chesnut lawyers in minnesota
Alex
What deadline?
ACN
This is a response for Paul; I’m all for personal responsibility; but there are times when a medication ’causes’ us to do something we normally wouldn’t
You normally wouldn’t fall asleep in the middle of the day, right? Well, Mirapex users often have daytime drowsiness.
But another example: you’re surgery and an FDA approved medication is given to you; YOU’RE ASLEEP (you’d normally not be asleep at 11AM)
Same as Mirapex. It’s FDA approved and causes some to FALL ASLEEP and TO GAMBLE Not because they want to. THEY CAN’T CONTROL THEMSELVES.
Bonnie Stassi
Does anyone know if the deadline is true. As, I have been on one hard ride trying to get anyone to take or agree to take my case. If this is the truth than I guess I’ll quit making myself crazy looking for anyone who will help me. Can you tell me where I can find this information. Bonnie
hlw
just go on the computer for mirapex lawsuites and laywers come up some say not taking new cases but others ask you to fill out a question profile thing, and it doesnt say they are not taking cases so, must be some that are still taking cases. good luck to you.
Bonnie Stassi
Thanks, hlm. I’m still at the answering the profile forms. I can’t believe that I have been at this for over 3 months looking for someone to help. I quess some figure anyone stupid enough to spend that much money, there’s no hope. Bonnie
MOE
I am a victim of Mirapex. I am 66 years old and have lost everything. I lost my retirement accounts and my house. I h ad to sell my house to pay my credit card debt. I have worked all my life putting away monies since I was 25 years old for my retirement. I worked for a company for 35 years and had to quit because the job required good physical conditioning. I had to retire at age 59. So not only was I diagnosed with PD but I lost a job I loved I was diagnosed with PD in 1998 and put on a low dose of Mirapex. As the disease became worse, my dosage was increased to the highest mg three times a day. I was on a high for five years. I shopped, bought new cars, bought a house and every thing I did was huge. I was not able to go into a store without buying something or should I say lot of things. I would spend, spend, spend. I could not drive by a casino without going in, staying as long as I could. I lied to my friends about where I was when I was late to meet them (or not show up at all). I lied to my partner of 15 years about where i was when I was gone all day and he was working….also when I would come home at 3 or 4 in the am. As sooon as he would leave for work, I was on my way to the casino. He knew I gambled and could not understand what was causing me to do this. In the previous years we had been together I had not set foot in a casino. He gave me an ultimatum one morning saying that I had better get some help or he was out of here. I did not listen and continued to gamble. A friend showed me an article in the paper about Mirapex and compulsive behavior. I talked with my doctor and she graduallhy took me off the drug. Guess what…I think I gambled maybe two times the week after I was competely off and that was it. No more gambling, no more shopping…no more anything compulsive. At last I was back to normal. Now I try to live on my social security and fall short every month. I’m on food stamps, have to tough it out during the winter months with little or no heat. Mirapex ruined my life. My golden years are gone. Everything I worked for all my life is gone. I have no house and little else. Those of you that don’t believe this can happpen, think again. I’ve lived it…Until you’ve walked in my shoes……..
MOE
Just read your account Marie. I understand completly…A lifetime of building a nestegg for t he future is gone.
I have comtacted a lawyer a friend of mine recommended and he is taking my case out of loyalty to my friend. I am finding out that he is spending plenty of his own money. He took my case on contingency. I hope this goes well. I will probably be long gone if and when the company settles.
I just want a decent place to sleep now. How much I took for granted.
Bonnie Stassi
Moe Do you think your lawyer would take on anyone else/ I can’t seem to get anyone to look at my case? Bonnie
limey
hang in there bonnie and moe
im checking to see if theres any lawyers who will take new cases.
fbh
My husband just started this medication - what is a reliable source I can direct him to? He has no worries about this?
Alex
Mo
I can copy your story and it will be my life in past 10 years. My family,business, house, income property everything is gone Unfortunately i am 5 years short from retirement and unable to make myself work due to severe depression which started as soon as i got of Mirapex and realized what i have done. Now i am taking antidepressants and who knows what they will do to me…
Karyn
All this bantering for 5 months…. and still Laura Kreisler languishes in a Kansas Jail. Can NOONE out there help to free her? She is not after $millions. She simply wants to be set free. It is grossly unfair that she is serving 7 long years for embezzelment. Ok, we have all established that Mirapex can take over your mind and alter your personality. Someone, PLEASE HELP LAURA; She does not belong in jail. As she approaches her 3rd Xmas there, she has done enough time. FREE LAURA KREISLER! i am in Australia…and feel useless..surely someone in America cares… and understands your system… I surely do not. remember..together we make a difference..alone it’s bloody hard!
alison
5 weeks ago my life changed. i had for the previous 3 years taken a drug called Cabaser which is another dopamine agonist. This drug was for the treatment of restless legs syndrome and is manufactured by Pfizer. I too found the information on the drug and the link to pathological gambling through the internet (all thanks to prof. Google)I live in Australia and have been following the class actions taking place in the US and Canada with gret interest. 3 days before i discovered the link my husband of 20 years ended our relationship, my children no longer trusted me, I had ruined us financially, attempted suicide during the 3 years and absolutley hated myself.i used to be a confident person who prided myself in everything i did. In the end I was an emotional wreck, and came so close to losing everything dear to me. I cried so hard when I first read of the links between my drug and pathological gambling. My husband stayed with me and we are rebuilding the trust that was lost through my lies, betrayals and deceit. And it is so painful. Even though I now know that it was not my fault it is still hard to live with the shame of what I have done to my family financially and emotionally. I have spent the last couple of hours reading all of the blogs and find great comfort in knowing that other people have walked in my shoes. It is the darkest place in the world to have come out of. i was so close to ending my own life when I stopped the medication. I now do not gamble at all and have not done so for the last 4 weeks. It leaves me feeling a bit lost though because I almost can’t remember what it felt like to live a normal, happy life. Now I do not gamble and no longer live the nightmare. So every day I just count my blessings and when I hear my children laugh I thank God that I am here to listen to them. There is an interesting story that was shown on ABC TV inAustralia earlier this year. I wish I had of seen it when it went to air but none the less, some of you may find it of interest. Good luck to you all.I have enclosed the link. The transcript is there as well as a hyperlink on the left of the screen to click on dial up or broadband which will take you to the story. http://www.abc.net.au/7.30/content/2007/s2143263.htm
amos
Bonnie and others…..you need to know that the law firm in Minnesota is willing to share all the clinical info they gathered with other attys to help others to get cases done. If attys are aware of this they may be more agreeable. Look back thru prev blogs and you will have the contact info that u need to give to another atty. GOD BLESS YOU ALL AND GOOD LUCK!!
Larry
Bonnie, Limey, hlw, all the above
The embarrassment , shame, worry and heart break has just hit me this week. I have gambled away about $50,000. And like Bonnie that is a lot of money to me. It may be harder on people with little money than those with money. I told my new Dr. yesterday and he lowered my Mirapex from .5 to .125mg. If any of you find an attorney who will take a case, I would love to have one. Also what about the capital gain tax on the 401K I cashed in and spent. Do we have any kind of tax deduction? Please anyone with any help I would appreciate it. Larry
alison
Hi Larry and others who have lost smaller amounts of money.I think it is obscene that a lawyer may not touch your case because the return for them is not worth it if you only gambled 40 or 50 thousand. The pain and suffering is the same. If you spent every dollar you could get your hands on then the effect on you is the same as the person who had $300,000 to spend and who spent everything. I am not sure how the casinos work in the US but in Australia, if you cash in to collect (and it is more than $200) it requires you to call an attendant to collect your money from a machine. She/he would write me a slip which i would have to print my name on and sign, then I would take to the cashier where I would sign the slip again and be given my money. Now, when I was assessing how much money I had lost in the 3 years I was on the drug I included money I had won at the casino where I had filled in those slips. The reason i included them was because I cashed the slips in and then stayed at the casino and spent any winnings and always walked out with nothing. By law, in Australia, these slips are kept for 7 years. Probably millions of them in boxes but they are proof none the less that I been at the casino and so I included this money. I read on someones blog that they had joined lots of casinos? Does that mean you can only play if you join? And is there any way that the casinos record information that you were there and had won money? If we are all effected to the same pathological level with our gambling then we probably all gambled away any winnings that we had. Also Larry, is there not any other drug, just as effective as Mirapex that your Dr can prescribe so that you can get the hell away from that life wrecking poison? It is a terrible thing to realise what you have done to yourself and others through your gambling, and it really does hurt deeply. I wish you all the very best in locating a law firm that will assist you to try and get some justice for what you have been through. Alison
Larry
Alison
Thanks for the kind words…This is all new to me, but you are right. I think I am going to tell my Dr. I need to stop Mirapex. Now that I know the problem, I think I can stop gambling. God I sure hope so. I just didn’t know I had a problem. That is part of why I am so embarassest. I am sure if I had not found out about the side effects this week, I would have lost more and more. Thank you again.
Bonnie Stassi
To All of You!!! I want to thank each and everyone of you for the support, understanding, guidance and most of all there is hope. Larry, please know that my experience was dr.had me reduce to a half tablet for 2 weeks and then every other day half. Know that I had family to help me stay away from the boats during that time. It took me a several months after I got off the Mirapex to see the desire leave, suicide thoughts and over eating are gone. I have decided to take a hot bath, lay with a heating pad on my legs and every now and then if that hasn’t been working I’ll take 25 mg of Trazazon[non addicting]I hope you find your way through this madness. Bonnie
alison
The interesting thing about Mirapex is that it has a half life of 8-12 hours but you should check with your specialist doctor, to ask how many half lives it has. The drug I took for Restless Legs Syndrome had a half life of 69- 115 hours. One week after I had stopped taking the drug I was still gambling and had very strong urges to gamble if i was happy, if i was anxious, stressed etc. I spoke with my Neurologist at the sleep clinic and he spoke with the hospital pharmicist. The type of drugs we were taking belong to a family of drugs called dopamine agonists. Mine was called cabaser (cabergoline)but mirapex is one of these same types and is in the same drug family. Anyway the neurologist rang me and told me that Cabaser has 5 half lives so it would be up to approx 24 days before the drug was completely eliminated from my system and not the 69-115 hours I had been reading on the internet (as that was only the length of one half life). This was of great comfort because when i was still gambling a week later I was distraught because I thought “It must be me”. Now I do not have any urges at all and have not gambled in any form for 21 days. I do not even think to gamble even when things are very stressful and I feel incredibly anxious. When taking the medication I gambled either at the casino’s or on horses etc every single day for nearly 3 and a half years. So, it will go away and you will be okay Larry. If you check my blog from a few days ago,(21st November) there is a link to an interesting video of a story that was shown in Australia on TV. It tells our stories. The name of the drug is different because each country markets it as a different name or it may be distributed by different drug companies. I only found this blog a few days ago and it is such comfort to know that even though most of you are on the other side of the world - we are all united by what these terrible drugs have done to us. And when you read someone else’s story, you nod your head and know exactly the hell that each person has had to endure. The details may not be the same but we “get it” . Only those of us who have been there and who have walked in our shoes know what control the drug took of our lives. Every now and then the drug companies get it so very wrong such as the previous generations with thalidomide. And this time, unfortunately we are the victims of their lies, their cover-ups and their refusal to admit liability. So, may we all fight our fights with those responsible and continue to encourage each other to keep communicating and sharing our knowledge and successes. And Larry, keep reading everything you can. Google key words together such as mirapex and gambling, mirapex and half lives, pathological gambling and mirapex, parkinson’s and mirapex etc until you have armed yourself with loads of information. Someone once said “knowledge is power” and it is certainly true. Alison
Lou
There are active class action suits in Canada filed against Mirapex and Permax. For more information and/or to join these suits(Canadian residents only), contact:
Darcy Merkur at Thomson Rogers
Toll-free number: 1-888-223-0448 or locally in the Toronto area at 416-868-3176
On the web, at:
http://www.thomsonrogers.com/class-action-litigation
amos
DON’T FORGET TO CONTACT MINNEAPOLIS ATTYS FOR AMMUNITION THOSE HERE IS THIS COUNTRY TELL YOUR ATTYS TO GET THE GOODS FROM MINNEAPPOLIS !!
Alex
Last update on Wyeth v. Levine case
http://www.fdalawblog.net/fda_law_blog_hyman_phelps/2008/11/wyeth-v-levine-supreme-court-oral-argument.html
Ed Silverman
Hi Alex,
We have covered preemption extensively on this site, going back more than a year. If you do a search using ‘wyeth’ ‘levine’ and ‘preemption,’ you will find numerous posts, many of which include the various briefs filed by the parties and their supporters, as well as an interview with Levine earlier this year. The link below is the transcript of the US Supreme Court review on November 3.
http://www.pharmalot.com/2008/11/read-the-supreme-court-preemption-transcript-here/
Hope this helps,
ed
Lou
Here’ my two cents on the statute of limitations.
The gambling AND many other types of compulsions do seem to stop within days of withdrawl from the drug. “For some, it is like a light switch being turned off and on.” By that time, the gamblers have lost everything in a few months - their retirement savings, homes, and all their future health and drug insurance coverage because premium funds also went ‘a gambling. Oh yes … they are left their Parkinson’s and crippling new debt that funded even more gambling!
Some/many very often don’t tell their doctors for shame and because their doctors never mentioned the possibility, even after published research findings in medical literature were warning of a risk. And with doctors saying nothing to their patients, they in turn never thought to report their new compulsions as a side effect.
Others don’t tell because frankly they are scared to death of losing access to a drug that can make the difference between life in a wheelchair and walking and the feeling of well-being it produced. Those who do not suffer from such diseases have no idea how addictive the feeling of anything close to ‘normalcy returned’ can be. The mania seized them; I’ve heard it described as “somebody else was living inside and had I no control over them.”
Other doctor(s) mentioned the side effect as a ‘possibility’ but went on to discount the ‘likelihood’ of it happening among younger patients and those on lower doses even after the warnings started appearing, and because it seemed to be limited to an isolated number of cases. Well, the recent research has taken those isolated cases up to 16% of all the drug takers (not just the Mirapex brand but the entire class of dopamine agonists) and suggests an even higher incidence among young onset Parkinson’s sufferers.
Among the affected who first heard of the connection from other sources (news reports and other Parkinson’s sufferers) and then sought their doctor’s perspective and help, at least one doctor laughed out loud in the patient’s face, ridiculed the new found vice and devastating losses, and advised continued use of the drug. Neither did he suggest or advise any kind of treatment for the compulsion regardless of the cause. That happened within just the past two years. Other patient(s) tell of doctors who, when questioned, admitted ignorance of the problem and of the related medical literature and warnings.
Many patients never got to see the new ‘warning’ on the drug pamphlet because they were on repeat prescriptions and the pamphet is not usually provided with renewals. They were effectively kept in the dark through no fault of their own.
There was comment that the warning was also rather obscure. It amounted to a few lines at the far end of a micro-size font pamphlet, compressed into a convoluted series of folds, and crammed into the side of a small box beside the pill container. It was also lost to or discounted/disregarded by those doctors who never mentioned it their patients.
Still other patient(s) tell of doctors who told the desperate that their only alternative to the drug was DBS surgery. What adds insult to injury is that those doctors never mentioned or were seemingly unaware of the literature that suggests the surgery may also result in compulsions. In some people and to varying degrees, the drug and surgery both ‘over’ stimulate dopamine receptors in the brain.
Something is happening to these Parkinson’s patients … whatever the ultimate determination of cause … and their experiences and stories deserve the consideration, attention, validation, professional help, and research that is at long last coming from the medical community and the health care industry.
Too bad it is all too late for the many lives already devastated, crippled by the guilt and trauma that lingers, and a relentless beast of a disease.
Thank goodness for those doctors who do keep up with the literature, make the time to foster an open and honest relationship with their patients, watch for what sometimes is ‘not being said’, and maintain sufficient scientific integrity to not summarily brush aside what seems improbable. Thank goodness for their professional dedication and adherance to their Hypocratic oath.
Gerald
I’m worried about those coming off Mirapex and being directed to DBS because of its potential to do the same as Mirapex. Does anyone have first hand experience with this? Also what is happening with the Minneapolis cases? Will they be settled?
jay
When I first found out about the mirapex and how it had ruined my life, I called my Dr. and told her about it and asked to be put on a different medicine. Her reponse “Here is the number of gambler’s anonomys”. I wish I could sue her……
alison
Hi Jay
I feel angry just reading what your doctor said. How dare she.. I hope you have gone back and re-dressed it with her. I lost everything financially that our family owned and gambled over 300,000 dollars. We didnt have all that money in savings, but thats what the cost was of the money we borrowed from the bank over and over again and also what I stole, borrowed etc from family and friends. Such a humiliating thing to be reminded of every day when i look around and can only see what could have been if I had not gambled it all away. Although we all don’t have much to laugh about when it comes to our gambling, I will share with you a funny story. One that I am sure those of us in this small network can appreciate. I too was given the number of gamblers anon and i actually attended for a year. This was on the advice of my therapist, whom I also saw for 18 months, once a week for my gambling addiction (and for obvious reasons now, that didnt work either) Anyway, I had voluntarily barred myself from going to the casino (can you do that in the US - where you are no longer permitted by law to enter for 12 months?)and I started going mad on scratch lottery tickets. And at gamblers anon every week someone is acknowledged for not gambling for 3 weeks, 3 months etc. During each meeting each person would say ” Hello my name is… and I have not had a bet since (and they would say whatever the date was) and then people would nod their approval and that person would then share something about their gambling issues. Well, every single time I went I would say “Hello, my name is Alison and the last time I had a bet was - and it was always that days date. Was so embarassing. But worse, this one week when I had been scatching all those tickets, hundreds of them every day in my car, I said ” I have barred myself from the casino (and for once I got the approval nod) and then I said “But I have been really struggling this week with gambling still, and I have spent hundreds of dollars on scratch lottery tickets, scratching them secretly in my car every day.” The room was silent. And then I said “In fact, I have scratched so many of these tickets that if a giant picked up my car and shook it, it would turn into a snow dome” Not one person laughed, only me. Now thats embarassing. For over a year I went and they all used to look at me as if to say “You dont even want to be helped” Of course I did, but I look back now and my gambling was so severe, every day for 3 and a half years, that I felt like I didnt even belong there. In fairness to those who attend, they were not bad people and it really seemed to work for them. I was also probably suffering so badly from guilt and shame that I felt like they disapproved of me. So, keep your chin up Jay. Also, excuse my ignorance but what is DBS? It may be that we call it something different in Australia?
Alex
Does anyone has any news?
anthony
seems eerily quiet in here lately….i have spoken to a few plaintiffs in the Minnesota MDL, as well as the Canadian class action and all of them have been instructed to “keep quiet” as to all details of the case. that instruction refers to things as innocuous as dates of status meetings between attorneys of both sides. i can see the purpose of not discussing certain details of meetings, but to hide that the discussions are even taking place? whats the objective of this obsessive secrecy?
the september 26th settlement status meeting was cancelled, and the october 20th fourth bellwether trial was cancelled, and no explanation was ever given. none was given to me anyway. speculation that the court is waiting for the us supreme court to rule on the wyeth preemption case notwithstanding, i find all this lack of clarity disconcerting.
one final thought: the current plaintiffs in this MDL are almost, if not exclusively, limited to patients who lost over 100k gambling. but if you ask every last one of us, we would say that our most significant damages are not monetary but rather the devastation the drug caused to our personal, professional, and familial lives. so the few wealthy patients who had the resources to lose over 100k have great cases, but the poor saps whose lives were ruined but can only prove 90k in gambling loses are sh*t outta luck. this seems unfair to the majority of patients who fall in the latter category, but an arrangement to limit the cases to those few patients who actually had 100k to lose makes sense to all the parties involved in this MDL. lawyers on both sides will limit their work load by limiting many more additional cases; the drug companies limit their liability from thousands more complaints; and the few plaintiffs involved receive favorable settlements in return. and the plaintiffs attorneys still make the same amount because whether 100 clients make 1 million bucks each or 1000 clients make 100k each, 37% of 100 million is 37 million dollars, no matter how you slice it. i point this out because what started out as a movemnent to seek justice for all who have been hurt by this drug has degenerated into a potential windfall for a few at the expense of the majority of victims who have legitimate complaints.
anthony
For those who are interested in raising awareness: Sign up for Team Mirapex Victims at unitywalk.org and spread the word.
Boehringer Ingelheim is the proud sponsor of the annual Parkinson’s Unity Walk in April in Central Park, NYC. This is the largest Parkinson’s gathering with tens of thousands of people attending each year. Therefore, it’s the perfect venue to try to urge this company to start telling the truth.
Alison
Hi everyone. I am just wondering if there is any other blog that people are participating in. Or an online support group for victims. It is a very lonely road to travel this one. The grief that I feel is one that can not be spoken of because the people who are not closest to me would believe that what I did was my fault. So I put on the brave face except with my nearest and dearest. I lost my job last week. 2 months after I stopped taking the parkinsons medication. My gambling path of self destruction disappeared a short time after I stopped taking it. I finally thought my life was going to be alright. Someone I trusted didnt believ it could be caused by a drug and spread the word through my work. I was forced to resign from the company I ran for 10 years. Very sad, hurt and betrayed.
JPS
Hi all,
I have been reading up on all of your blogs for hours and hours… My fiance was affected just as you have all been with Mirapex. Young onset PD patient… lost everything his family etc…We are in CA and are looking to start antoher suit. I understand the any law firm that has successfully argued, and or settled with the companies are gagged and can no longer take Mirapex patients. Minnesotta has the longest statute of limiations in the country. From what I have read, my understanding is that regardless of where you live, you may file in Minnesota. several years ago, the ‘class’ was denied in CA. I wonder if now that more information is available, if the suit would satify the tight requirments for a class suit now?… any way, we are desperately wishing to file suit before it is too late. Also, my fiance is a film maker and will be making a film… we know that many of you have been gagged, but for those of you that have not, we would love to speak with you further. And yes, you had better be VERY CAREFUL what you say in any communication if you have settled and have been gagged!! and YES they most certainly DO have squirmy little spies out there to make certain that you do NOT violate your GAG order… I may be reached at joannepittman@hotmail.com. I have a heavy junk mail filter. please put in all CAPS “MIRAPEX” in the subject line so I can find you in my junk mail box… and that Levine case was found in favor of Levine… yes? If anyone knows other wise please let me know. the makers of Mirapex used that case to squeeze the hell out of the Mirapex plantiffs mid trial…as well as the attorneys that made millions… God bless you all!
JPS
Alison,
Have you found any buddies? Let’s start a group, one that is not comiserate, but powerful and gives tools to pick up the pieces and move forward…it is an uphill battle when most of the populace knows nothing about the disease model of PD, and that also knows nothing about how the drug works in the brain…I know that my finace would love to start a group and help as many people as he can… he has taken almost 2 years to crawl out of the hole that he was in…just getting his life back together again… it is a slow ans painful process, if he did not have true true friends that really knew the kind of man he really is, i dont know how he would have ever been able to face anyone again after what that drug did to him… he is one of the lucky ones… and he wants to help anyone that he can. joannepittman@hotmail.com
Laura
I know that there should be some accountability in regard to gambling in most cases.
My father was one of those greatly affected by Requip
He was a very frugal man and pristine credit - could buy a house with a signature. He had almost 1 million in savings then diagnosed with Parkinson’s and placed on this drug.
It was a trigger - he started gambling daily - sometimes would sit at a video poker machine for 2 days strait without even eating - it made him crazy. He max bet everything and yes he won at times and continued with this thrill. He equated it to a heroin addiction. Once he was 3/4 the way through his life savings his doctor sent him a warning letter that the drug may cause these affects and to call the doctors office immediately - by that time, it was too late money was gone and he was addicted. After thinking of robbing a bank, he broke down and told my teenage son which told me immediately. I was completely shocked and in touch with the doctor immediately - they were very cooperative and understanding.
I only ask for each doctor to be required to tell the patient to have another family member aware of possible complications and assign someone to track finances and behavior issues - that is how I feel pharmaceuticals should move forward. I feel by recalling the prescription, may affect those who may not be experiencing behavioral issues. However since this has always been a suspected possibility - the drug companies should pay back the losses to those who can prove probable cause. It is not fair to withhold the information of possible behavioral issues from gambling, pornography or excessive eating - if only suspect. These possibilities should have been discussed with the patient and a mediator and move forward from there. So yes - drug companies are also at fault for withholding information that may have led to less patients accepting their expensive prescriptions - so they would have lost revenue - not only was the gambler compulsive - as was the drug company -
Damages should be awarded - (although I would accept what only the losses were - others may have the right for mental and punative damages - people have lost their loved ones, homes and jobs - sure they should be awarded something.
the drug companies knew and failed to notify. Suspect or factual patients deserved the right to make their decision - I can guarantee that my father would have rathered hold on to life savings than to have a couple of hours per day walking without a shuffle.
Bill
I can only hope that someday you clowns who are against this lawsuit can underdstand the devistation of Parkinsin’s disease. There is absolutely no justification for your comments or the ignorance they demonstrate. Your posts demonstarte a level of ignorance unjustified by the level of damage caused by mirapex. Stupidity rules supreme in your posts.
Betty
I am so glad to get to this website. Iwas on Mirapex and lost $10,000 to gambling. When I complained to my doctor, he took me off and it was like a light switch had been turned off and the gambling stopped. The $10,000 seems like a small amount compared to some of your losses, but I am a widow and just lost my job, (I have about two years until I can retire.) I would love to get my money back as it would be a great help. Is anyone out there?
audrey
I am an 80 year old lady who has RLS,have been on sinemet ,since 1998,have been gambling compulsively since 2001,only because we did not have a casino until then…by 2003 ,I was bankrupt and desolate depressed and having anxiety attacts,never thought a pill could cause such feelings but was so depressed I broke down in my drs office,he gave me a nunber to call a gambling councellor,never mentioned a change in meds…when confronted five years later,he said he did not know! there was no warning,he changed my medicationto parmipexol, which is a worse one,I an taking as little as I can whithout suffering too much,when I first starting taking Pramipexol ,my gambling was worse..I,mnearly off of it now,I need my self respect back…why did,nt they put a warning on it years ago..I never gambled before I,m Mad…
Larry
Is there no help! Can anything be done? Time is runing out for us. I love that I found this website, but we need an attorney who might help us.
audrey
I live in Camada,there is a class action going on here ,bub, its only for Maripex,all the drugs that are dopamine agonists cause the same problems,just with different names,just talking with someone who understands is a help,I could not understand my actions,as I am a very responsible person…I,m glad I found this website alsoI,ve lost my selfrespect….
anthony
larry, contact me at asceltajr@aol.com. i may be able to help you.
Canadakeith
I also am on the Canadian lawsuit. I hope it is over soon. I am a hearty atient and can not take the stress. The gambling almost did me in.God Bless those who can see the light. The company representing us is in Toronto. Thompson Rogers. A Stephen Birman C/O dmerkur@thompsonrogers.com Good luck. Keith
Alex
Most of the cases were dismissed today anybody knows why?
anthony
alex:
those are the cases that settled.
Alison
Anyone have any idea what the company might have settled for? Roughly?
LEEANN
My bet friend stumbled across this website and gave me a call. I thought I was the only one feeling this way. It’s been a haze for the past 2 years but I CANNOT sleep if I don’t take it.
anthony
leeann,
may i ask if you have pd or rls?
John Parker
I think the big law firm (RKMC) settled and the mfr is planning to wear the rest out over time.
Alison
I found a link today that said that 250 plaintiffs settled on 30 January this year. http://www.law360.com/company_articles/3729
Anyone know if this is true. Also has anyone got any news regarding the other international class actions such as in the UK or Canada?
Larry
I am trying to get IRS “Taxpayer Advocate Service” to help us with some tax deduction for our loss. I don’t know about you, but I can’t get any help and this is a last attempt to get some help. TAS is to help people with tax burden (as they put it). If you have created a tax problem as I have, you may want to inform Taxpayer Advocate Service that you also want and need some help. On the net under Internal Revenue Service / Taxpayer Advocate Service. Am I crazy, or just looking for help I can’t get? I will take any suggestions you might have.
Alex
Alison,
It is true that most of the cases were settled be lead attorneys. Also in US it was not class action. They were all individual cases most of which were handled by one law firm (the one who settled) Rest of them are still pending. I think the amounts of settlement are under strict gag order so we probably will never know.
Alison
Thanks Alex
I only hope that those who settled got something near what they deserved for the devastation this drug caused. I know in other countries there are class actions going ahead. Not sure whether or not it is more beneficial for the plaintiffs to be settled individually or to be part of a class action. Can you suggest any other websites Alex that is worth visiting to keep up to date on what is going on. I tried having a look at Pacer but the US system is very differnt from ours and I found it all a bit confusing as I am not sure what I would be looking for. I know it is only 8 cents a page but I would probably spend a fortune before I found anything.
If anyone is using this can you tell me what I should be looking for specifically?
Good luck and good health to everyone..
LEEANN
Anthony, my doctor says it’s rls, all he did was ask my symptoms and gave me requip, when that didn’t work they switched to mirapex in early 2007. I have googled and searched every thing that I can every lawyer says htat they are not taking cases at this time. Has anyone stopped taking it and been able to sleep, I’ve tried but after 3 days I give up because I am completely out of my head but my legs won’t quit “jumping” so I can sit still? Alison, if your out there I can identify with the scratch off tickets, problem is I’ll never be able to get back everything I’ve lost. I can sit here today and know it’s wrong but I’ll stop aon my way home from work and spend what’s left in my purse. I’ve tried every sleeping pill known to man and nothing works
Alison
HI Leeann
If you have just stopped taking the medication recently, don’t be too concerned if you are still getting strong urges to gamble in any form. The drug has a long half life which means it can take up to 21 days for it to be out of your system completely. Thats what my specialist doctor who is treating me for RLS told me. So don’t panic - it will pass. It took nearly that long for me to lose the desire to gamble. I expected it to happen within two or three days and then was so traumatised when I was still gambling 2 weeks later. I have been off my dopamine agonist drug since October last year. I have had no desire to buy scratch off tickets or casino or anything for a long time now.
I too am having terrible trouble with the RLS. The new drug I am on is useless and I am getting no sleep at all. In fact the RLS is worse than it was before I started taking Cabaser (same as Mirapex). I am going back to my sleep specialist to get another medication to try. In the mean time try doing about 40 gentle leg squats just before you get into bed and also try sleeping with your feet elevated by two pillows. These both bring minor relief. I feel your stress though. It is so terrible to go night after night without sleep. I am also given a drug called clonazepam, which I have taken for years to get me to sleep and is used for patients with RLS in Australia. It is an anti-epileptic drug so it also has benefits for RLS plus makes you sleepy. It works within half an hour and also only stays in the system for about 4 hours. This makes me drowsy at bed time but not by the time I wake up. Take care Leeann, let me know how you are getting on.
LEEANN
Thanks Allison!
I can’t believe there are actually people out there who know how I feel and what I’m going through. I never thought to look into this until a friend of mine stumbled across it. No one in my family has any idea how bad it’s become and eventually it’s going to crash down around me. I don’t know if I can even live with myself anymore. I keep thinking if I cna hit one “big” one that I can pay most of it back, but it never happens and it just gets worse. I’ve gotten 8 e-mails from lawyers who are not willing to mess with this, along with tons of “not interested” replys as soon as I inquire about anything.
Alison
Hi Leeann
you and i seem to have very similar stories. I know exactly how you are feeling. The lies and the debts and the cover up so that no-one finds out and the anxiety and stress and feeling that things will never get better. It is such a dark, awful place to be. But it does get better Leeann. I am still paying off gambling debts after re-mortgaging our house and I have now met with each of my family and told them. I found it very helpful to have lots of information in a file that I showed them so that they all knew that this was not me, this was not my fault. Have a look at the following links I attach. They are also useful to help explain what has happened to you. The up side to all of this is that you are still alive. Many people in our situation did not make it to tell their story because they suicided. The worse that can happen to you is that you dont get a lawyer to represent you, that you tell family and friends and they dont support you, that you pay off your gambling debts for years to come. But you know what? It will pass. In years down the track you will look back on the nightmare and you will be living a normal healthy life. See this and look forward to all of the peace and the new life, free of gambling that is in front of you. Dont give up. No matter what. No matter how bad things are. They will get better and you will be okay. If you would like to email me we can maybe share our stories with each other and offer each other support. My email is anderson_ward @aapt.net.au The link to the news stories are as follows http://www.abc.net.au/7.30/content/2007/s2143263.htm Also there was one on the BBC in the UK http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/newsnight/7223068.stm Have a look at these Leeann The drugs are called different names but they are the same as mirapex and they are antiparkinsonian drugs belonging to the family of dopamine agonist drugs. I look forward to hearing from you if you want to email me. Regards Alison
Alex
Hi Leeann
Have a a look at link below you may be you find some needed information for RLS
http://www.rlshelp.org/rlsrx.htm
Alison
Hi Alex
The link was very useful for me. It also confirmed what my Dr told me the other day. The anti-depressant I have been taking is most likely what has caused my RLS to become so bad I was having no sleep at all. Cheers
Alison
Jen
Hello all,
I’m a fellow Mirapex sufferer in Canada. I just discovered a forum today:
http://forum.mirapexvictims.com/index.php. There’s already a few members but hopefully we’ll be able to grow this forum a bit and be able to support one another.
A word to everyone, as JPS kindly mentioned above, whether you are writing here or elsewhere, if you have signed a gag order and settled, for your own protection watch what you say. I believe JPS that the pharma cos have spies out there to ensure that gag orders are respected. Pfizer/BI has not demonstrated what I would term “ethical” behaviour insofar, so spying to ensure compliance with a gag order, perhaps even baiting someone in the hope that that person would violate the order, would not be a distasteful thing for them to endorse.
I am part of the class action in Canada, and hoping that it resolves soon. The good thing, is that I am now a family medicine resident and the banks here do not mind having me pay back my $160 000 of debt VERY slowly. The bad news is the same… because I was a medical student (at the time), I had no problem getting big lines of credit. So, I went from not even having a line of credit (my education was paid for because I am in the military), to having two to the tune of $160 K. I also trashed my career by writing many senior generals directly, and I bought a second house. I am a weaker doctor now, because during medical school I spent my time doing home renovations, playing sports, getting involved in all sorts of different things… everything except doing medicine. Oh and yes, I also was hypersexual.
I normally exert a lot of self-control and self-discipline, indeed I am now back to my old frugal self and having no issues with living on a very tight budget. I am sorry to see that there are so many ignorant persons suggesting that this was all just a situation of a lack of mind over matter. I wish, I only wish.
LEEANN
Thanks again everyone! I am going to stop taking the mirpex today. Allison you should be getting an e-mail from me shortly. Larry have you found anyone to help yet? I am in Indiana and don’t know where to start. Jen I am going to check out the forum you found. LeeAnn
Alison
Hi Jen
How long has the class action in Canada been going on for and where is it up to? I have been trying to find some information and have checked out the law firms website but I am really curious as to the time frame as they are launching one in Australia and it just seems to take so long for anything to happen. Cheers Alison
Sara
I have been involved in a class action in the US for about 4 years. We have settled. Look at Salkowlaw.com.
Bonnie Stassi
Sara, I’ve tried to pull up this site,it reports this is not a site.Can you hepl me. I finally have an attorney is looking at my case. I want to provide as much information as possible in hopes that I can get some recoup. Thank You so much. Also, if anyone has any additional places I may go. Thanks Again. Bonnie
anthony
bonnie,
i may be able to help you.
email me at asceltajr@aol.com for confidential discussion.
Alison
Sara
Can you please provide any website address as I can not find anything on that law firm. Also is there any articles or other sites anyone knows of that covers the story on the cases being settled in the US? thanks
Bonnie Stassi
Anthony, I have tried to make contact but I’m forwarded to Pharmalot. My e-mail is luvnit1952@Yahoo.com Thanks, Bonnie
LEEANN
Allison, Did you receive my e-mail? It wasn’t returned and I hadn’t heard from you. It is ok if you don’t want to respond, I was just hoping it didn’t go to the wrong person.
Thank You, Leann
anthony
bonnie,
there may be something wrong with your email because my emails keeping coming back. is it luvniti952@yahoo.com?
LEEANN
Anthony, I think you have an extra i before the 952. Leann
Alison
Hi Leann
Yes I got your email. I just checked this site at work. We have just changed internet providers so I have not been able to respond. Our new modem etc arrived today so I will get it set up tonight and when I email you I can give you my new email address. Hope all is well. I look forward to chatting (even if it is only email) soon. Regards Alison
Ann
I have RLS and my doctor said it was not a good idea to quit Mirapex “cold turkey.” He had me slowly taper off the medication over a 2 week period. Even then it was rough. I went 57 hours without sleep. I then tried another medication that did not work well for me. At that point, my primary care doctor suggested I seek advice from a neurologist. The neurologist suggested I try taking Tylenol-3 (it’s a prescription pain medication). It works fairly well for me. I still have to be cautious not to eat sweets or drink caffeine in the evenings or I’ll still have problems. In fact, that’s why I’m up now. — I just couldn’t say no to a candy bar last night. :(
John Parker
Re: Mirapex Withdrawl
I quit cold turkey around 9/30/08, and had withdrawl symptoms as well as some continuing compulsive behavior for another 4-6 weeks.
http://www.mirapexvictims.com
Drug Impairment
Paul G, it’s ignorance like yours that makes this world that much closer to an Idiocracy.
Mirapex is a dopamine agitate, which means it overhauls regular compulsive instinct. Which means if you like to blow your minimum wage on infomercial merchandise late at night now, you’d blow that and your parents college fund, then get a loan to blow, too. A dopamine agitate causes excessive compulsive behavior in all four compulsive categories: sex, gambling, shopping, and substance abuse.
Mirapex is also a slow-release, moderate dose drug that can delay direct effects for weeks. But by that time, the dopamine receptors are already under the lull of the drug, and prevent you from noticing any unusual activity on your behalf. This means that you “personal accountability” idea gets blown out of the water on medical prognosis.
Mr. Charbonneau was, in fact, unable to control his gambling addiction, and is therefore medically an unwilling addict. It’s the same principle as the LSD trials from the 80’s. The plaintiff is suing for damage done unwillingly; because had he known the risks and dangers, he would not have used the drug.
Next time you feel like scoffing at a news release, make sure you’re actually informed, sir.
Larry
Leeann, Bonnie and all the above.
I just had another good law firm take a good long look at my case and say NO! Bonnie I contacted ANTHONY, I have did it all. I have asked taxpayers advocacy to help all of us. I was surprised the advocacy did not know we have a problem. Has no one in the US asked them for help except me. Today I emailed my congressman. I would settle for some kind of tax deduction (bailout) to help me pay my income tax on all the money that I have lost. I will have to borrow money to pay my income tax. Maybe I can get in a class action and in a year of three get $200.00. No thank you….I give up! I am a loser..Leeann I live in Illinois maybe this is just a midwest problem. Good Luck to you all! I don’t expect any help from my congressman, but should I receive any good news I will let you know. Don’t hold your breath.
Bonnie Stassi
Larry, I refuse to believe you or anyone who has been a victim from this crap is a loser.If that is the case I”M a loser and that is the last thing I am. I REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM!!!!! I want you to call Brent Coon and Assn. at 617-227-4006. They have atleast sent me forms to fill out, ask for releases for medical forms and yes commitment for a large percentage if there is anything. But at this point something is better than nothing. I have another local lawyer looking at the case, but not sure how that’s looking yet.I couldn’t get anyone to look at it for 6 months now. I’ve not had an opportunity to speak Anthony, but I hope to get some input from him.I’m working on getting paperwork together this week as I took vacation time just to focus on that as it’s so overwhelming what it’s going to take to support the case. I’m hoping to speak to the local lawyer I would ask for you and others if they would want me too. If that is the case you can e-mail me your name and phone # and I’ll give it to him to call you. E-Mail is luvnit1952@Yahoo.com. I hope that ALL OF US get JUSTICE!!!!!
Larry
Bonnie.
I am sorry, but you and I are victims. I am on vacation all the time, because I am retired. I have spent 100’s or hours working on this. It is like a obsessive compulsive disorder if you can believe that. I contacted Brent Coon last year. Although I now have proof of income in 2008 of over $170K that showes that at one time I did have money. I have tracked loss statements from casinos show ing losses of $35K. and could get more. I must have lost $70 to $100K. I have pharmacy print outs showing Requip and Mirapex. I even have my Dr. as a supporter. I don’t know how much of a loser an attorney wants, but I am a loser.
I will always be a loser, because even if I could get all of the money back, I will never have peace of mind. The embarrassment and shame of what I have done to my family will never go away. I am not half the man I once was. At one time, I considered myself
successful and proud but now I will have to borrow money to pay my income tax. I am my worst critic, but I must live with myself. I wanted to say more, but I just lost my train of though. My mind went blank. If you still want my address, I will send it to you. Keep up the fight if that is want you want. You all can use me as a sorry example of this damn drug.
Bonnie Stassi
Larry, I do understand your frustration but that does not make you half a man nor a loser. My heart is heavy that you are so down but you have to get up and fight or you let them win. If nothing else do it for others,as we can’t take something that we don’t give away. It’s like voting one vote can make or break a situation. As the past election when people get fed up, they band together and you can get change.Please e-mail me your address or phone# and I will past it on. When I spoke to Brett and Coonz they were getting another case together. What is it going to hurt to call them again. The other thing is I would get all the profit and loss statements. As I think they are looking at $150,000 but I think it’s not just how much you put in out of your pocket but what ran through them. Also, get profit and loss before and after you took Mirapex. I had gone several years before Mirapex and since I quit. There is a far cry from a few thousand to over six large figures that I ran through in 2008. It was Mirapex!!!!!I would like to know more about the tax thing as I have no clue what you are talking about. I do short form and my tax guy said that I had to do long form to get the write off. Do you know anything about that? I wish you well and hope that you will reconsider quitting.
Leeann
Bonnie & Larry, I am completely with you and do not know where to turn. Bonnie, I sent you an e-mail a couple of weeks ago but havn’t heard back. I will try it again today. I tried to call the number that you gave Larry but it goes to a fax machine. Please be on the lookout for my e-mail Thank You, LeAnn
Larry
Bonnie.
I voted, but the only change I have seen is the balance of my money went down with the market. Now for the good news. I have no good new so now for the bad news. You think it might be $150K put into the machines. I put $68K in the machines of one casino, $300K in all macnines but no help. Win/loss statement for past years. I have..before Requip and Mirapex…2005 losses of $5,564.00 2006 losses of $9,500.00 2007 losses of $8,400.00 and after Requip and Mirapex 2008 losses of over $37,100.00 +. I was on it only about 11 months. You spoke to Brett and Coonz. I think it was Brent Coon. I have talked with Brent Coon and Associates. I think this is one and the same but I hope not. As you can tell, I am not very hopeful. Income tax..If you had any winnings, and can use long form, you won’t have to pay tax on your winnings. Even I had winnings of $6K and we know I AM A LOOSER. That seens to help. I am a looser. It is like confession. I want congress to allow us to deduct our losses totaly. Would that not be good for us all? I will send you my e-mail address. If I can be of any help, let me. “I am a looser” PS Leeann do you want the addresses of a couple of attorney that told me no?
Bonnie Stassi
Larry, I don’t file long form as I don’t have a home. Can I do that on short form? Hey, what’s your thoughts saying “I’m going to be a survivor” It has a much better tone and I hate that anyone who would read on this site would give up. That is particularly true to people on the opposite side of the fence would think they are winning. I know that the market is bad but it was coming and we all knew that. Also, know that no one likes change, it’s scary,but with time we’ll come back. Market was up today, I know that it’s hard to lose but the market has made more for me than I’ve lost. I hope this finds you in a good spot.
Leeann
Larry, if your out there. Please let me know now. I have info that I need to ask you about. LeeAnn
Larry
Leeann.
Yes! I am here, I would be happy help you if I can…
LeeAnn
Allison, are you out there? Just checking becuse I haven’t heard from you in awhile. How are you doing Anthony?
BLG
Leeann,
The name of the law firm is Brett Coon and Associates and the website is http://www.bcoonlaw.com/attorneys_bca
As you will see when you go the site, they have many different offices. The number you had (617-227-4006) was the fax number for their Boston office. The voice number there is 617-973-9777. I have just spoken with a paralegal there who said they are looking at several Mirapex cases and will get back to me.
BLG
BLG
Leeann,
The name of the law firm is Brett Coon and Associates and the website is http://www.bcoonlaw.com/attorneys_bca
As you will see when you go the site, they have many different offices. The number you had (617-227-4006) was the fax number for their Boston office. The voice number there is 617-973-9777. I have just spoken with a paralegal there who said they are looking at several Mirapex cases and will get back to me.
BLG
LeeAnn
Bonnie, I got my packet in the mail today. I am filling it out now and am putting it back in the mail to tomorrow. Thank you!!!!!!!!
Larry I got your e-mail address from bonnie, but mail has been returned, does it matter if it is upper case or lower case? I would love to talk to you..
Mary Bolton
My Name is Mary Bolton and I never had problems gambling until I started takening Mirapex I have got my self in a mess with the money I have spent gambling. I need to talk to some one. my husband is about to leave me over this. Mary Bolton 940-231-4284 or 940-482-6896
Alison
Hi Mary. I would ring you but I do not live in the US, I am in Australia. I am so sorry to hear your story. Unfortunately it is one that is very familiar to so many of us. Try showing your husband as much information as possible about how real this problem is. I have included a couple of links for you to have a look at that may be of some use. The first one is a news story that was shown on BBC in the UK. The drug is called mirapexin there but it is the same thing and it may help to be able to show it to your husband. When you open the page just click where it says ‘Tricia Wraggs story’
I wish you all the best Mary.
Alison
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/newsnight/7223068.stm
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8543848
http://injury-law.freeadvice.com/drug-toxic_chemicals/miraprex-side-effects.htm
http://www.patientsville.com/medication/mirapex_side_effects.htm
Francesca
Hello Everyone,talk about the last one out!! I just found this blog today 4/09/09!! I have been on Mirapex for 3 years 10/06 for RLS. My dosage is down to 1 tab from 2 then 2/1/2 now just 1 at bedtime.W/o it I can not sleep…I will get the hebgb’s!! I just found out about the “new” seide effects in summer of 08…..they were never written on the contraindications before that.(maybe pharmacy had old meds? I asked my Dr and he said yes this is true….my compulsive behavior is due to Mirapex…I did not gamble what I did was charge up 20,000.00 on 5 credit cards for programs!!! websites,real estate programs, all kinds of business’s!! without even thinking twice or consulting my husband!! I am in serious debt now and unable to pay my debt!! My Dr says he would back me up on all of this…I then started researching on the web.I too Bonnie could not find anyone to take my case.A friend gave me a name of a lawyer I called yesterday gave info and they said they would get back to me.I live in NJ…there is one man in the Minnesota suit from NJ. I need help here….can anyone guide me or give me a lawyer to contact?? I have had RLS for 10 years…and I am only 45 yrs old…I can’t imagine what my liver is going to look like in another 10 yrs!!!If anyone can give me a lawyer who is taking on cases please I would be ever so thankful.I also found info on the fda site I am going to go there now and send link.Thanks in kind
Francesca
Francesca
Please go to drugs@fda.com look up mirapex…the last submission was in 2008 for a change in label and text information….dated 8/13/08…..obviously it was not done…or not done completely…in united states.
LOU
The Mayo Clinic is now reporting (April 8/09)that the incidence of compulsions among people on the agonists is a ‘definitive 17%”.
http://www.mayoclinic.org/news2009-rst/5240.html
helen
I personally think Mirapex should pay for the damages it has caused to so many people. I had a bad heart to begin with and had a mechanical mitral valve and tricuspid ringer. An a pacemaker. I got RLS from the surgery.
I was given Mirapex in Middled of 2007 and started gambling all the time not knowing why?
I dedcided I could not control it so I tried to committ suicide. Spent time with a guard outside my door and was trasferred in a police
car to a mental institute for a week. I have had to replace the pacemake to a double chamber pacemker and it has damaged my heart
even worst. I had over $600,000 lost and medical bills. due to Mirapex. I will do my best to reclaim whatever amount I can because
my doctors said it caused the problem and they
would give depositions or go to court. I lost
all my friends because they thought I was crazy. My family took all my charge cards, my banking account and everything else including my car. I have basically been a prisoner for over a year and a half. I will fight these companies with all I have because I was left with nothing. I never new the pill would cause this so I am not to blame. The doctor prescribed 2 mg tablet per day. I have all the
proof even the bottles with the pills. I do not know what is going on at this time with other cases but I will try to settle this in court or out
4
Alex
Helen,
Have you filed your case?
The Problem is that in 2007 they already had warning about gambling. Your case probably should be against your doctor who should had warn you about dangers of taking this medication. Mirapex destroyed my life as well.
Compliance Analyst
People should know what they are puting into their bodies. Personal responsibility needs to start somewhere.
helen
I agree with you however, their was no label
on my bottles. The company put in on the boxes per the company. I have the paperwork from the pharmacy and the bottle I got it in and their was nothing on it about gambling. The company has it and is making a determination on it as we speak. Supposed to
have an answer by friday. I’ll let you know
if they throw it out. Because my paperwork has
nothing on it about gambling or behavioral
conditions.
Compliance Analyst
I am still unsure how the company would be liable for putting it on their boxes, but the pharmacy not passing on the information. the insert/outsert for the product should also have the warning, I would think.
Alex
They will blame it on dispensing pharmacy. You can go after pharmacy also.
Bonnie
Compliance Analyst, It’s interesting that you have something to say about something you apparently know nothing about. That’s how all of us got into this mess. People were not aware because the information was NOT given. So, how dare you insult people who have been a victimized by the companies.They produced this product and did not released the side effects to the FDA,so how would dr’s or the pharmacies know? That’s why victims such as myself are suing these companies. They knew in the beginning and didn’t care about who, what or how they would impact. So, the next time you make such a statement maybe you should make sure you know the facts.
Compliance Analyst
I was merely stating that I believed that the change to the labeling was done prior to 2007 (2005?)…..when the person stated that they started taking it. If the person started taking it after the warning, again….how is the manufacturer supposed to be held accountable? I agree the people that had losses prior to this have a case, as it wasn’t on the label, but when I see someone trying to sue based on these circumstances, I have to call out personal responsibility.
I am not sure how pointing out the facts is “insulting”….next time I will specifically address the person that I was posting in reference to.
Alex
Such side effects should be brought out by prescribing physician and discussed with patient prior to beginning of the treatment. I believe 17%
rate of occurrence is astronomically high risk for anybody who even considers taking these medications. Aspirin has hearing loss included in side effects, but most of us will take it without hesitation, because we all used to the idea that normaly side effects listed with medication usualy have rates of something like 1 in 10000 or less but not 17 in 100 as Mirapex has for possibility gambling and and
other destructive behaviors . So nearly small print on tiny piece of paper is not enough for such catastrophic mind altering process.
I am a victim of Mirapex but i can understand people who can’t believe that loosing all you own in casinos can be attributed to medication. I still can’t believe it but it is TRUE. I lived it.
helen
Yes Alex, I lived i also and my life was hurt
not just monetarily but physcially. If anyone
has any read page 63 of this month’s Ladies
Home Journal for 2009. Boehringer Ingelheim
Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (BIPI), the company that
makes the drug MIRAPEX, would like to tell you about an important Warning Letter that was sent
by the Food and Drug Administration(FDA) on
September 29, 2008. In the Warning Letter, FDA told BIPI that two consumer-directed pharmacy printouts were misleading about how safe Mirapex is to use. You may have received a copy of these printouts. This print ad provides important safety information that FDA
stated was left out of these printouts. You might be amazed what it has to say. Read it for yourself and come to your own conclusion as to just how dangerous, and what they left out until 2008. You need to read this 2 page article that FDA had Boehringer Ingelheim about the product. You unbelievers might change your minds.
helen
Sorry for the in correct grammar but the blog
chose to take out certain words ( it said) because I had used them in my last printout.
So, please just read the article. May Ladies
Home Journal page 63. Best of luck to all
Alex
link to
May 2009 Ladies
Home Journal page 63
http://www.ladieshomejournal-digital.com/ladieshomejournal/200905/?pg=65
linda
i have taken mirapex for many years and find it had to believe that it drove anyone to gamble. does anyone take the blame for their own actions. the pill made me do it. boo hoo
jay
Linda,
Obviously you have no clue as to what this kind of drug can do. It has been proven in at least 3 trials that mirapex causes this problem in upto 19% of those who take tha pills. I know for myself, that before I took the pills, I had never gambled, and that while I was taking the pills, I couldnt stop, went throuhg 200k. I have now been off mirapex for almost 2 years, and I have no desire to gamble and haven’t. I’m glad that you haven’t had to go through this devasting side effect, but maybe its effecting your ability to understand what others are going through. So before you judge others, do your research.
Robin
What do you do if the only thing that has worked to far is Mirapex? Robin
Robin
I am to embarresed to even tell a sole about my addiction problems. I hate mirapex, why can’t they find a cure for restless legs.
Alex
Robin, there are some alternatives to Mirapex
http://www.rlshelp.org/rlsrx.htm
linda augustine
I have taken Mirapex for several years(also tried requip(just as bad). The worst part is that trying to stop positions me for weakness, tired, lack of energy, etc. I am damned if I do stop or damned if i do not stop.
Help–Linda
Minnesota
I became a compulsive - obsessive gambler about 4 weeks after starting Mirapex (8/08)…. having now lost my house, my car, my health insurance (which I wished I would have never had as I wouldn’t have started taking the drug in the first place), soon my checking account – I am financially ruined…with no turning back. Beyond financial loses I lost the respect of my family, the respect I once had for myself and if I don’t do something here real soon, I’m going to lose my dream of attaining my Bachelors (ain’t studying cuz I’m gambling - or I sit in class thinking about going to the casino). I am just sick about the fact that I innocently took a drug to help me sleep at night because of Restless Leg syndrome to then going to someone who still didn’t sleep at night because I was up gambling all night long. Then to add insult to injury I’m laughed at when I tell people “its because of the drug I was taking.” I’ve lost countless nights of sleep because of the gambling – I keep saying its not the loss of money that’s going to kill me in the end its going to either be… falling asleep when driving home after gambling all night (although I feel way too wired when leaving the casino), its going to be a heart attack from the lack of sleep and/or from the stress trying to figure out how to pay the bills or to get money into my checking account to cover the checks I wrote to gamble. Its going to be being found dead somewhere because of going into the casino alone at night or leaving in the middle of the night…. I’m just sick to think this drug is still being prescribed and I KNOW that there will be many more after me just as there were many more before me that will experience the same thing as I did. I’ve read countless stories of what this drug has done to ruin peoples lives – sex addiction- shopping addiction…gambling addiction. As I sit up here tonight after yet another night/hours after being at the casino I know that there is not a damn thing I can do about it – I just hope I find the way to stop – this is NOT how I want my life to end – all because of a drug prescribed by my doctor. Unreal.
Minnesota
Today there was a glimmer of hope that just maybe someday I will have my day in court. There is a law firm taking Mirapex cases 1-800-529-4636. The catch is that your gambling losses need to exceed $75,000 - that doesn’t include the loss of your house etc…just straight gambling losses shown with proof through bank statements- profit/loss statement by the casino or where ever you gambled. My losses are not quite at that amount…but I’m not giving up hope that some law firm - some where will help me. I’m also hoping to find others who have had their lives impacted (ok RUINED) by this drug. Our stories have alot of similarities… The only forum I’ve found so far for Mirapex victims (found on this forum here) is http://forum.mirapexvictims.com/index.php.
Bonnie
Minnesota, Thank you for the update on the law firm. I will past it on to people that I know that has given up to find a lawyer or firm that will take them on. I hope that you can make peace with yourself or it will eat you up. It might be a good idea to find a support group on gambling and maybe talk to your dr to help with your depression. I want to tell you that brain fog is a side effect of this drug. I experienced it and that was my wake up call to ask for help. There is help but you have to be willing to ask for it.
Minnesota
Bonnie thank you for your response. I’m doing much better emotionally than when I first posted here. I’ve since started a blog to pull the last year of my life together to try to make some sense of it. I’ve finally reached the point I’m just so sick of who I’ve become because of Mirapex…I just want to be ‘my normal’ again. You mentioned about the ‘brain fog’ - that’s one more thing I experienced as well (realizing that now as I’m finally coming out of my Mirapex fog) in addition to the gambling in addition to eating an excessive amount of sweets in this last year. This week I’m hoping to hear from a lawyer whose email stated, ‘We would be happy to meet with you.’ That was a first. Its encouraging verses what has become so familiar… “Sorry but we’re not interested in your potential case.” If I get anywhere with the legal aspect of it I’ll be sure to post back. Thanks again.
Minnesota
got nowhere again with the attorney I spoke with today. But came away with more questions. Does anyone have an answer to why if a Mirapex victim didn’t lose a certain dollar amount that they can’t be apart of a class action suit?
Bonnie
Minnesota, I’m not clear about that either, but I don’t know that anyone knows as I have heard a dozen different figures. I’m sorry that you were shut down again. You are like a thousand others who continue to run into this mountain. I wish I could help but I too have had these blocks. Bonnie
Minnesota
Hello again Bonnie. I’m not out of steam quite yet (from being rejected over & over by law firms). What I’m finding is that lawyers I’ve spoken to are really interested but respond in one way or other with, “We don’t have the bankroll to take on a pharmaceutical.”
My last three inquiry’s over the weekend (haven’t heard back from) I included to represent ‘us’ the ones who didn’t lose enough to meet the $$ amount threshold. What I don’t get like my question above posed – “What difference is it in how much I lost – I lost what I had access to – I lost it all. Had I had access to more – it would have been more.”
The impact on our lives is still the same regardless of any dollar amount put on it. The dollar amount lost is not what is significant to me – (but to lawyers apparently it is) it is what the drug did to me (I become someone I WAS NOT), it was the fact that I wasn’t given the opportunity to be informed BEFORE I started taking it. Sorry – just venting.
Bonnie
Minnesota, I’m not good at the computer but I would think that there is a way to get the word out to the thousands like us.If we would rally together maybe there would be enough that maybe someone would at least look at this issue. Statue of Limitation is running out for many. Suggestions?
Minnesota
How long is the statue of limitations??
I’m waiting to hear back from an attorney whose email reply to me simply said, “I will check with the people that are looking at those cases and see what I can find out.” Again not getting my hopes up but even if I can learn just one more thing that can keep me going.
I also thought about how to reach ‘others’. Not sure at this time – I too am not all that savvy when it comes to using the internet in a way like that. I do have a son who is though –I’ll check with him and see if he could help. What I’ve been told is that there is strength in numbers.
My night classes start up again on Wednesday (9-9-09) - hoping I’ll still have the time/energy to continue to pursue this. My one hope when I first posted here was to STOP going to the casino – to get this nightmare to finally stop - which I have as its been 15 days now – that in itself is a miracle. So with that….
I’ll keep you posted on anything I hear…there has to be a way that ALL voices WILL be heard. This drug almost destroyed me (and would have COMPELTELY had a few situations been different in my life). I can’t imagine how many other lives out there (that may not even know yet that it’s the drug) have been ripped apart/destoryed because of Mirapex.
Bonnie
Minnesota, Each state is different. You’ll need to check. I’m in Illinois and it’s 2 years and I’ve lost 1 just trying to get someone. Hope to hear from you soon.
Minnesota
Hi Bonnie ~ I spoke with attorney today (different one from above) who said he’d doing some checking and get back to me. Not sure how I feel at the moment. It wasn’t a ‘no’ but it wasn’t a yes’ either. Leaves room for a little hope.
I do know for sure that at least for the next 6 weeks I’m still going to be at… I started my night classes tonight - the class I’m taking is ‘Research Methods’…I have 1 paper due a week for the next 6 weeks along with a final presentation…Guess what my topic of research will be on the lines of?!?!
Something to do with Mirapex!!
If/when I hear ANYTHING back I’ll pass it on. There has to be a way Bonnie - There just has to be.
anthony
i hate to be a downer but all the people involved in the mdl are bought & paid for. if you started mirapex after november 2004 when defendants filed a “chnages being effected” document, you’re probably out of luck. the judge has ruled that the first label change, which didn’t go into effect until march 2005, is basically an adequate warning (despite containig lies and inaccuracies. secondly, if you continued on mirapex after you discovered it was causing the compulsive behavior, you’re out of luck too. the judge is unsympathetic to our disabilities, claiming if we chose to continue the mirapex, the benefits obviously outweighed the benefits. lawyers know they are up against the entrenched power so they are reluctant to invest time and money only to have plaintiff’s doctor and experts paid off.
anthony
*corrections: benefits outweighed side-effects
Minnesota
Hi Anthony – Thanks so much for your insight. I’m compiling as much data as I can regarding Mirapex so I really really appreciate your posting.
If possible, can you lead me to where I can find additional information on:
1. Regarding “if you started Mirapex after 2004…. the judge ruled that this was an adequate warning.”
2. About “if you continued taking Mirapex after you discovered it was causing the compulsive behavior…”
3. You mentioned ‘the judge’ – do you know what judge?
As I continue on this journey – there is a part of me of course that hopes I will ‘get my voice heard’ in a court of law. However at the core of my drive here it has more to do with aiding in my healing and recovery from what this drug did to me. So your news wasn’t a downer in the least but over all very helpful : ) Again thank you.
Ok Bonnie ….I heard back today from one of the attorneys… I’ll try to piece together my notes here – OK SO apparently - currently there are about 300 cases that have been appointed to one Judge -“Judge Rosembam” - here in Mpls to hear. That stemmed from a ruling in California 2005 when a law firm was seeking to file a class action suit – back then that Judge said ‘no’ to a class action but appointed Judge Rosembam at that time to hear the cases. There is no class action law suit going on nor has one actually happened. The cases are being heard on an individual basis. While this attorney couldn’t represent me (his law firm is in Connecticut and he does not have the knowledge of drug litigation) he did highly suggest to find a “Local Plaintiff attorney” who specializes in drug litigation. Suggested also as a resource to contact the States Bar Association to see if they have the names of attorneys in my state who specialize in drug litigation. When asking him if I had a chance (without knowing all my specifics) of getting ‘my case’ heard by Judge Rosembam, his comments left the impression that “yes there would a good chance.” He called back later and gave me two law firm names in Mlps that MIGHT be of help.
NOW with this said, it did all seem to be good to be true as well as too easy. But I’ll just keep continuing on (getting used to the rejection by now!) and update you as well.
I really don’t think the nightmare of Mirapex Victims FOR THE pharmaceutical company is over yet, I think it’s just the start. Gosh if anything I really hope that they get spanked HARD and just maybe this thing with Mirapex will expose even more of the industries nastiness of keeping serious side effect information hidden from consumers (and the FDA) - cause I now know darn well – it isn’t just Mirapex, and thats scary.
Alex
Minnesota Read this blog from the beginning. There are some references to Mirapex MDL( Multi District Litigation)with case number. You can subscribe to Pacer
http://pacer.psc.uscourts.gov/
and get all the information about case there.
Get off Mirapex ASAP !!!!
Minnesota
Hey Alex… I’m WAY off the Mirapex - have been completely since May of this year. Not sure why my compulsion/ obsession caused by Mirapex didn’t immediately just go right away, but the fact remains it didn’t. It took roughly about 3-4 months for me to feel ‘normal’ again…to have rational thoughts again…for me to come out of whatever happened to my brain caused by that wicked drug. That’s a whole other story in itself, as well as I plan to research on WHY.
When I first found this blog about 3 weeks ago, I start reading from the beginning – at that time it all (including my life) was just kinda a blur (as my first post here reflects). I’ve gone back and read here and there a few times since and plan to again and again. There is some wonderful info but at this time 400+ posts is alot to digest all at once.
I remember reading about the Pacer website here - and had I had a few dollars I would have accessed the site then. But unfortunately at that time I didnt : ( and still don’t. I asked the last attorney I spoke with where he was able to get the info he passed on to me and he referred to that website. It’s on my Mirapex to do list. Thanks for the reminder.
As I stated previously, right now for me its just learning as much as I can to simply understand what happened to me, why it happened, to take a day at a time while I put my life back together, and get to the point I feel comfortable in knowing how others after me will have ‘actual adequate’ foresight/knowledge of this drugs potential side effects… which I didn’t. I started Mirapex in Aug 08′ - I had no clue AND at that time while the drug company may have been forced to include the warning on the ‘longer version’ of the side effects info the pharmacy gets - at that time it was NOT included on the consumer print out. From my limited knowledge – the consumer printouts didn’t include this until December of 08’ again until they were forced to. A few weeks ago at the pharmacy where I picked up my med I asked the pharmacist for the product insert they get (the long list), it was on there. I asked him if he was aware of these potential side effects – he said NO.
It hit me this morning that this drug has been on the market for something like 12-15 yrs (??)… and they knew back then but its just in the last few years NOW those warnings are being put out??? Something is really seriously wrong with that picture.
Mirapex isn’t over…its just beginning… My purpose is not to sue and get compensation for really what is becoming my part in the long term effects study, I want knowledge as much knowledge as I can about this drug. I’m not going to just settle and accept that its my loss - a boo hoo. Hell no, my life, my childrens lives were impacted because of Mirapex. I BECAME SOMEONE I WAS NOT - and how I got there was because I was deceived. To me there is so much more to this picture…
anthony
hey minnesota,
the fact that you started in 2008 makes your case nearly impossible to prove a failure-to-warn case. drug companies are only required to warn doctors, and they were warned by 2005-2006 the latest. the defendants are hiding behind what is called the learned intermediary doctrine. your doctor may be liable for malpractice however. the only way you could proceed is to pay for a bunch of $600/per hour experts to testify that the label was an inadequate warning, and for every one that you have, defendants have 10 to swear that the warning was adequate.
the funny thing is that no victims actually know the extent of the crimes defendants committed, because every document is sealed. i know only because i am representing myself in this case. the only way to hold these creeps accountable is to get a government investigation started, where it is less likely for people to be paid off. the whole process in minnesota stinks to high heaven…
Minnesota
Anthony~ Oh I wish I had more time tonight to reply…I’ll try to get back in the next few days as I have questions!!
but first… How does one represent themselves? And how is that going for you?
Second, I’ve been following “Tammy Rothwells’ story - type her name into a search engine… she did win something, but she is not a happy camper at all.
And you’re right regarding “you come up with one they have 10.” Who has the money to go after a drug company??? Not even many law firms do.
Someone suggested to me to write my congressmen… what they can do - don’t know…but the idea I guess is to get this out there to as many people as possible. I’ll get there in time but first need to continue to collect FACTS.
I’m not giving up so easily - I can’t, I’ll continue to make my calls to lawyers I’ll continue to get rejected… but its like every day there is one more little thing that keeps me going.
Anthony- how many Mirapex victims may have committed suicide? Had I not had the support system I had - chances are high I wouldn’t be here right now still making those phone calls. How many Mirapex victims are too embarrassed to tell their story (perhaps the ones who ended up with a sexual addiction)??? I heard somewhere (don’t have the facts yet) but the side effect we have been talking about here is seen in 17% of the users of Mirapex… seems outrageous. Dont know, but isn’t 17% high????
I can’t let this go…Also the first trial happend only a year ago and the cases are still being heard - its not over BY FAR.
And Bonnie!! Nothing new to report…one law firm called back and left message - not interested. Another one left message that their interested in at least talking to me : ) I figure hey - I have a story to tell and if their interested in listening its a doozy of one!
Dee
Minnesota, I am so glad I found this site. I Have been on Mirapex since March of 2004. My story is almost identical to yours. I just went last week to Dr. Silber at the Mayo Clinic (whom Prescribed the Mirapex to me). He assured me that my gambling/shopping addiction is definately caused from the Mirapex. I am being weened off it slowly. But last night after pawning my wedding ring and taking that $200 to the casino and losing it within one hour, was so devistating. I was going to commit suicide. I have suicidal thoughts quite often lately. If you wouldnt mind, I would really like to talk to someone who has gone through this themselves. I am also in Minnesota. Let me know and maybe we could exchange email or i could give you my phone number. I could really use a friend who knows what I am going through. No one seems to understand.
Minnesota
Dee - your post just sent tingles through my my body and tears to my eyes…i am sooo sorry. I know your pain. I would love to talk to you… trying to figure out how we can exchange email addys while maintaining privacy… be back in a bit.
I started a blog maybe we can somehow use that to connect…
http://www.mirapexvictim.blogspot.com/
I’m so glad you posted here… the start to your nightmare is over - its not you, never was you.
LeAnn
Sorry I have missed your calls Bonnie, I checked out for awhile. Just reading all of this has brought it all to the front again. There isn’t anyone out there that will/can help us. Dee, I understand where you are coming from. We are hanging on to our house by a thread and everything else we own. It’s hard to wake up every day and know what has happened is all my fault. I was on mirapex for almost 2 years when a friend told me about this sight. The sad part of all this is there are more of us out there than you would imagine. I’m in Indiana and we can get in touch if you want to.
Minnesota
Leann ~ Don’t give up hope…thats what they want…they don’t want the complete truth and the full reality to come out. Our voices need to be heard – however and whatever it takes. If we give up - we then silence what this drug did to innocent people - its not just those 300 or so cases being heard in Minnesota - as you said there are so many more out there.
It hurts to read when someone says “It was my fault” - if there has been one thing that has become so clear to me in these last several weeks (and I’ve lost my house) is that it wasn’t my fault. My only fault was trusting…trusting my doctor that he knew what he was prescribing to me…trusting the FDA that they keep it so we’re protected from the makers and distributors of drugs…trusting the drug companies to act ethically…
I trusted those I should have not questioned. Thats our only fault.
Dee
Hi Minnesota, I sent you an email, just wondering if you received it. I was very impressed with your blog. I will send you another email. Have a good day.
Minnesota
Had a thought this morning about possibly starting a blog with “Mirapex Victim Stories”, not just my jounery.
Anyone interested in taking part in it?
Our stories need to be heard. Even if it just for us : )
Dee
I think that would be a great idea, Minnesota! I would be interested in taking part in it.
Lori
I too have been on mirapex and have gone thru everything you are all going thru. I have called many attorneys and no one wants to take on new cases. I started mirapex in 7/07, but was on requip for 2 years before that. I feel your pain, all of you.
Lou
I learned today from a 3rd-party source that Gary Charbonneau will not get his $8 million punitive damage award. He basically traded it for a negotiated settlement/offer from B-I … and, for that, B-I will not proceed with an appeal of the trial decision and judgement. Guess that’s why we haven”t heard anything from Gary either.
Lou
The Reed Smith/Pfizer lawyers are in “nirvana” and are being heralded for their good work at settling the Mirapex cases. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled.”
http://www.law.com/jsp/article.jsp?id=1202437399809&Litigation_Department_of_the_Year_Product_Liability_Reed_Smith
Excerpt highlight:
“In the federal MDL, which went to trial in 2008, Reed Smith was set to try three back-to-back bellwether cases in Minnesota federal court with co-counsel Venable, which represented co-defendant Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH. Venable partner Bruce Parker tried the first case and lost — a jury awarded plaintiffs $8.3 million, split between the two defendants. Reed Smith partners John Hooper and Eric Gladbach quickly worked to settle the vast majority of the Mirapex suits. Their skillful work helped offset a “tail” of subsequent suits. The Reed Smith lawyers “faced up to what they had [to do], and they said, ‘How do we resolve it?’ ” says Mirapex plaintiffs attorney Michael Ciresi of Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi.”
Lou
This notice was found in the Parkinson’s Society Canada newsletter of December 2009.
‘W5′ Program on Parkinson’s Disease and Compulsive Behaviours
Published December 2, 2009
CTV’s ‘W5′ program is looking for people with Parkinson’s and care partners who are willing to share their personal stories about how compulsive behaviour, such as gambling, excessive shopping, eating, and hyper-sexuality, due to Parkinson’s treatment, has affected their lives. Confidentiality and privacy will be protected.
So, if you are interested in sharing your story, you can contact the show’s producer, Laurie Few, by e-mail at laurie.few@ctv.ca or call her at 416-576-5116.
CTV is a major Canadian television network and the program ‘W5′ is like ‘60 Minutes’ in the States. Here is a link to the program’s website: http://www.ctv.ca/w5/
Lou
Interesting reading:
http://trueslant.com/caitlinkelly/2010/01/03/water-on-stone-journalism-as-a-slow\
er-communal-exercise/
Here is the original article entitled “Prescription for Obsession”, from ‘Chatelaine’ magazine of Sept. 2007
2007http://caitlinkelly.com/zines/zineart15.htm
http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/washingtonpost/access/1005697551.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=A\
BS:FT&date=Mar+19%2C+2006&author=Shankar+Vedantam&desc=Prescription+For+an+Obses\
sion%3F%3B+Gambling%2C+Sex+Manias+Called+Surprise+Risks+Of+Parkinson%27s+Drugs