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ARTICLE · 18 DECEMBER 2024

Class Actions Relating To Opioid Use Disorder Continue Across Canada

Smart & Biggar
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There are multiple ongoing class actions in Canada against pharmaceutical companies related to Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and its effects. While these proceedings are all currently in their early stages...

CanadaLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration
Pierre-Olivier Ferko
Pierre-Olivier Ferko
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There are multiple ongoing class actions in Canada against pharmaceutical companies related to Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and its effects. While these proceedings are all currently in their early stages, decisions have recently issued in these matters including the following:

In British Columbia

  • In its November 29, 2024 decision, the Supreme Court of Canada affirmed the constitutionality of Section 11 of British Columbia's Opioid Damages and Health Care Costs Recovery Act (ORA) as within the Province's authority over "[t]he Administration of Justice in the Province": Sanis Health Inc v British Columbia, 2024 SCC 40.
  • The Supreme Court's ruling maintains the decisions of the lower courts (see our recent article) and allows the Government of British Columbia to continue pursuing its proposed "multi-Crown" class action under the ORA seeking to recover healthcare costs related to OUD from various manufacturers and distributors of opioid drugs. The proposed class

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The preceding is intended as a timely update on Canadian intellectual property and technology law. The content is informational only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. To obtain such advice, please communicate with our offices directly.

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