Trial of Accutane Lawsuits Underway in New Jersey

Trial began this week for three Accutane lawsuits filed by former users of the acne medication who allege that they suffered severe bowel problems from Accutane side effects, including one claim by a Hollywood actor who claims that the drug cost him his colon and a promising career. 

The consolidated trial, which began on Tuesday in New Jersey state court, includes an Accutane suit brought by James Marshall, who starred as a young marine on trial for murder in the movie “A Few Good Men” and also starred in the television series Twin Peaks. Other plaintiffs included in the trial against Roche are Gillian Gaghan and Kelley Andrews.

According to a press release issued by Courtroom View Network, a number of Hollywood stars are expected to testify at the trial in regards to Marshall’s lost career potential, including Martin Sheen, Brian Dennehy, and director Rob Reiner.

Roche currently faces about 3,000 similar Accutane bowel lawsuits, which all involve allegations that the drug maker failed to adequately warn users about the potential risk of injury associated with the acne medication.

Plaintiffs argue that there is an increased risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) from Accutane (isotretinoin), which could lead to ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease or other damage to internal organs. This has left many former users with severe stomach and gastrointestinal problems that cause a great deal of pain and can have a devastating impact on their quality of life.

Roche has lost all six Accutane trials that have previously reached a jury, with millions of dollars in Accutane compensation being awarded to individuals who have suffered bowel problems from Accutane.

The number of Accutane complaints filed in New Jersey continues to increase as former users discover that there may be a connection between their bowel problems and Accutane. Awareness of the link has increased following news coverage of prior trials and television advertisements by Accutane lawyers who are reviewing potential lawsuits.

Another Accutane trial is scheduled to begin in New Jersey state court in May 2011, involving a case filed by Kamie Kendall, who was previously awarded $10.5 million for damages from Accutane. That earlier verdict was reversed on appeal because Roche was wrongly prohibited from introducing evidence about the number of individuals who have used the acne medication over the years. The Court is expected to selected one or two additional Accutane suits that are compatible with the Kendall case to go to trial before the same jury.