CVN covered a 2007 trial in a suit brought by other plaintiffs involved in the larger suit.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) products liability claim by three women whose breast cancers allegedly resulted from pharmaceutical manufacturer Wyeth's menopause treatment drug Prempro.
According to the plaintiff, Wyeth inadequately tested the combination of Estrogin and Progestin. Wyeth allegedly failed to do long-term studies, and ignored red flags that should have alerted Wyeth of a breast cancer risk when Estrogin and Progestin were taken in combination.
The defense asserted that Prempro was safe and effective, providing proven osteoporosis benefits at very low risk. In addition, Wyeth conducted extensive testing for breast cancer risk. Further, Prempro was provided with adequate warnings. Finally, according to the defense, the plaintiffs' cancer was not caused by Prempro.
The jury found in favor of the plaintiffs on both negligence and product liability claims, and that Wyeth had concealed material information about the products, and that Wyeth acted with malice and fraud.
The jury awarded damges of $233,628,909 ($22,628,909 past damages; $112,000,000 future damages, and $99,000,000 punitive damages) as follows:
Arlene Rowatt: $7,557,027 for past damages; $36,000,000 for future damages; $31,000,000 for punitive damages.
Pamela Forrester: $7,561,481 for past damages; $40,000,000 for future damages; $35,000,000 for punitive damages.
Jeraldine Scofield: $7,510,401 for past damages; $36,000,000 for future damages; $33,000,000 for punitive damages.
