Meet the Sackler family, the most hated family in USA (Intermediate)

The Supreme Court Listens to Case on Opioid Crisis: Justice Kagen reflects on victims' views of the Sackler family

During a significant moment on the Supreme Court steps, Justice Kagen summarized how victims of the opioid crisis feel. She expressed, "It's overwhelming, the support for this deal, and among people who have no love for the Sacklers, among people who think that the Sacklers are pretty much the worst people on earth, they've negotiated a deal which they think is the best that they can get.""

The Sackler family, known for their philanthropy and association with Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin, is embroiled in a heated legal battle. Despite their charitable efforts, their ties to Purdue Pharma have led to allegations of aggressively promoting OxyContin while downplaying its addictive properties, contributing to the opioid epidemic in the United States.

Richard Sackler: A Figure of Controversy

Richard Sackler, a member of the Sackler family and former executive at Purdue Pharma, has been a central figure in the ongoing controversy. Playing a significant role in the development and marketing of OxyContin, Sackler has faced intense scrutiny and legal action. Alongside Purdue Pharma executives, he has been involved in multiple lawsuits alleging deceptive marketing practices that fueled widespread opioid addiction.

A Legacy of Controversy

The timeline of OxyContin's introduction and its aftermath sheds light on Purdue Pharma's rise and subsequent legal challenges:

1995: Purdue Pharma introduces OxyContin as a long-acting pain reliever.

Late 1990s-Early 2000s: Reports surface of widespread abuse and addiction to OxyContin.

2001: FDA issues a warning to Purdue Pharma regarding misleading marketing tactics.

2007: Purdue Pharma and its executives plead guilty to criminal charges and pay significant fines.

2010: Purdue Pharma releases a reformulated version of OxyContin to deter misuse.

2019: Purdue Pharma declares bankruptcy amid mounting legal pressure.

2020-2022: Settlement discussions result in a $6 billion payment plan and Purdue Pharma's transition to a public trust.

Supreme Court Showdown and Current Situation

In December 2023, the US Supreme Court deliberated on "Harrington v Purdue Pharma," a crucial case with broad implications. However, the court's decision is pending, leaving stakeholders and the public awaiting an outcome. Meanwhile, Richard Sackler, aged 79, resides in Florida, his future closely linked to the resolution of this landmark legal dispute.

As the nation grapples with the devastating impact of the opioid crisis, the Sackler family's reputation is under scrutiny, overshadowed by accusations of corporate misconduct and the lasting consequences of Purdue Pharma's actions.

Guided conversation questions: 

1. 1. 1. How familiar are you with the pharmaceutical industry in Japan?

      2. What role do you think pharmaceutical companies play in addressing public health challenges in Japan?

      3. Have you heard about any significant developments or controversies involving Japanese pharmaceutical companies recently?

      4. How do you think the Japanese government regulates the pharmaceutical industry to ensure the safety and efficacy of drugs?

      5. Are there any Japanese pharmaceutical companies or medications that you trust or have heard positive things about?

      6. What do you think are some of the challenges Japanese pharmaceutical companies face in terms of innovation and competition?

      7. How do cultural factors influence the perception of pharmaceutical products and healthcare in Japan?

      8. Are there any specific health issues in Japan that you believe pharmaceutical companies should prioritize in their research and development efforts?

      9. What are your thoughts on the pricing and accessibility of pharmaceutical drugs in Japan?

      10. Do you believe there is a need for more transparency and accountability within the Japanese pharmaceutical industry? If so, how do you think this could be achieved?