Neurontin national class action certified in Canada

LONDON, ON, Feb. 19 /CNW/ - In reasons released yesterday afternoon, Justice Paul Perell of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice ordered that an action relating to the drug Neurontin (gabapentin) be certified as a national class excluding residents of Quebec. The action alleges that use of Neurontin, a prescription anticonvulsant that is commonly prescribed for off-label uses, results in an increased risk of experiencing suicidal behaviour.

Among the issues the court approved for determination are whether Neurontin is ineffective and/or defective or unfit for the purpose for which it was intended and sold, and whether Pfizer breached a duty to warn class members or materially misrepresented any of the risks of harm from using Neurontin. Another issue approved for determination is whether the class can elect to require Pfizer to account for all or part of the gross revenue or net income received from the sale of Neurontin.

Class members are represented by the law firm Siskinds LLP in London, Ontario, and the law firms Dunn & Company and Hanson Wirsig Matheos in Vancouver, British Columbia. Michael J. Peerless, a partner with the law firm Siskinds LLP said that "We are very pleased that Canadians who experienced suicidal behaviour from using Neurontin, and their family members, will be allowed to go forward with their claims on a class basis. We will continue to press forward in representing the claims of these individuals."

It is too early at this stage to quantify the claims of class members, but it is anticipated that the amount will be significant. Any Canadians who have used Neurontin are encouraged to visit www.classaction.ca or call Joan Stewart at 519-660-6065 ext. 341.

For further information: Please contact Matthew Baer at [phone] or Michael Peerless at [phone]