Opioids Litigation

The opioid crisis is a public health crisis stemming from an increase in prescription opioids and the illegal practices of opioid manufacturers and others who misled healthcare providers and patients about the addictive nature of opioids. This flooded the market with an over-supply of opioids, helping create the crisis the country faces today. Through ongoing litigation and investigative efforts, the California Department of Justice (DOJ) seeks to hold accountable the opioid manufacturers, distributors, retail pharmacies, and consulting and other firms that advised the pharmaceutical companies, all of which are alleged to have fueled the crisis, and to bring funding and relief to affected communities nationwide.

To date, DOJ has helped secure nearly $50 billion in nationwide settlements. These settlements are expected to bring up to $4.25 billion in funding for California communities, which may, among other things, be used to:

  • Increase support for substance-use disorder facilities and improve infrastructure for treatment.
  • Address the needs of communities of color and vulnerable populations, including those who are unhoused.
  • Strengthen availability of Naloxone (also known as NARCAN) or other FDA-approved overdose reversal drugs.
  • Provide interventions for drug addiction in vulnerable youth and supporting those in the juvenile justice system with treatment options.
  • Improve training and resources for law enforcement and first responders regarding appropriate practices and precautions when dealing with fentanyl or other drugs, including with regard to addressing the needs of criminal justice-involved persons with opioid-use disorder and mental health issues.
  • Implement best practices for outreach, diversion, and deflection.
  • Support job creation programs to help connect those recovering from substance use disorders with gainful employment and pathways to financial stability.
  • Improve data-sharing and management systems to detect suspicious activity, including with regard to the prescription of controlled substances.

Recent Opioid Litigation News