Emerging Litigation Trends: Key Court Decisions Shaping the Mass Tort Landscape
Depo-Provera MDL Triples in Size
More than 1,300 cases have now been filed in the Depo-Provera MDL in the Northern District of Florida—tripling since its formation in 2024. Plaintiffs allege long-term use caused meningioma brain and spinal tumors. Preemption arguments against Pfizer recently concluded; if plaintiffs prevail, the case will move to the general causation phase.
Georgia Supreme Court Strengthens Plaintiffs’ Rights in Hair Relaxer Litigation
In a pivotal ruling, the Georgia Supreme Court sided with plaintiffs, allowing claims to proceed despite the state’s 10-year statute of repose. The court held that repeated purchases of dangerous products, like chemical hair relaxers, reset the repose period. The decision preserves access to justice for consumers harmed by products used over many years.
GLP-1 Litigation Expands to Include Vision Loss Claims
A new JAMA study links GLP-1 drugs—Ozempic and Mounjaro—to permanent vision loss (NAION). Plaintiffs have filed cases in state courts and petitioned for a New Jersey multi-county litigation. While still early, these developments could broaden the scope of the GLP-1 MDL.
Tylenol Litigation Gains Momentum
Following new federal findings linking prenatal acetaminophen use to autism and ADHD, Tylenol litigation continues before the Second Circuit. Plaintiffs’ counsel cites a 2–3x increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, while manufacturer Kenvue disputes any causal link, urging the FDA to reject new warning label petitions.
The Missouri Supreme Court declined Bayer’s appeal, finalizing a $600M judgment for plaintiffs with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. With over 61,000 cases pending and $11B already paid, Bayer faces growing pressure for transparency and safer alternatives.
Paraquat MDL Highlights Settlement Tensions
In Illinois, over 6,400 Paraquat lawsuits remain stayed as settlement talks progress. A recent court order underscored tensions between judicial control and attorney advocacy, spotlighting transparency and fairness challenges in large MDL settlements.
Purdue Pharma Bankruptcy Nears Resolution
Purdue Pharma’s revised bankruptcy plan has won 99% creditor approval, potentially unlocking over $7B in opioid crisis settlements, including $850M for individual claimants. A confirmation hearing is set for later this month.
As multidistrict and class action litigations evolve, Verus helps law firms stay ahead through data-driven case management, analytics, and settlement administration.
Contact Verus to streamline your litigation operations and ensure your clients get the support—and justice—they deserve.
