Pfizer Agrees to $6M Zithromax Settlement Over Deceptive Ads

What Made Zithromax So Popular?

Zithromax is an antibiotic that has grown in popularity since its release. Used for a variety of reasons for both old and young patients, it is most commonly used to treat severe ear infections in young children. It is common for drug companies to use direct-to-consumer advertising methods to bring attention to new drugs that they are marketing. When Pfizer released Zithromax, the drug manufacturer pushed their drug as a better antibiotic option for children suffering from ear infections because the treatment period was significantly shorter than other common antibiotics on the market.

Attorney General Accuses Pfizer of Overstating Benefits

The Attorney General that was overseeing the Zithromax investigation stated that the DTC campaign overstated the efficiency and benefits of the antibiotic when Pfizer compared it to similar drugs. Pfizer was accused of only focusing on the alleged benefits and leaving out other pertinent information that must be included when a doctor prescribes a medication. It was also concluded that Pfizer could not state that Zithromax was more convenient due to a shorter treatment period without also including a statement outlining that dosing convenience is just one of many factors that doctors take into consideration when prescribing medications.

Pfizer Left Out Several Important Statements

The investigation also found that Pfizer left out mandatory statements that must now be included with the drug prescription. A statement concerning the effectiveness of the treatment must now state that antibiotic resistance is a factor that doctors must take into consideration before recommending the treatment for children’s ear infections. Pfizer advertisements must also now include the fact that antibiotics are not meant for, nor do they treat, viral infections, including colds and flus. Parents should not insist on an antibiotic prescription unless their doctor recommends it.

Pfizer’s Zithromax Settlement

The Zithromax settlement requires Pfizer to give $2 million to fund public service announcements throughout the next three cold seasons between the months of November and March. Pfizer also has to promote public awareness to inform patients that the medical community must take antibiotic resistance and other factors into consideration before prescribing a medication. Pfizer must also pay $4 million in total costs with additional attorney’s fees.

Getting Your Own Zithromax Settlement

If you or a loved one was prescribed Zithromax and suffered any adverse or severe side effects, you may be eligible to receive compensation. Side effects that may warrant compensation include cardiovascular problems, heart attack, Stevens Johnson Syndrome, liver failure, trachoma, blindness and more. Visit our Zithromax Class Action Lawsuit Settlement Investigation for more information on Zithromax side effects and how you can file a lawsuit and get the compensation you deserve.