On Wednesday, October 5, 2022, the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (“JPML”), consolidated suits related to Acetaminophen. There are currently 65 actions pending in eight districts nationwide alleging a link between the development of either autism spectrum disorder (“ASD”) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (“ADHD”) and prenatal exposure to acetaminophen.
The cases were sent to U.S. District Judge Denise L. Cole of the Southern District of New York. The Action is titled IN RE: Acetaminophen – ASD/ ADHD Products Liability Litigation. The lawsuits were filed against multiple defendants. Defendants include the sellers of the “store-brand” of acetaminophen including, Costco Wholesale Corp., CVS Pharmacy Inc., Family Dollar, Rite Aid Corp., Safeway, Sam’s Warehouse, Target Corp., Walgreen Co. and Walmart Inc.
The cases follow recent studies that link prenatal use of acetaminophen with an increased risk of ASD and ADHD seen in children who were exposed to acetaminophen in utero. The complaints allege that defendants failed to warn pregnant users of the neurological risks acetaminophen posed to the fetus.
The order states, “that centralization in the Southern District of New York will serve the convenience of the parties and witnesses and promote the just and efficient conduct of this litigation.”
The order can be found here.
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