GSK Settles 80,000 Zantac Lawsuits for $2.2 Billion, Shares Surge 6%

October 9, 2024
GSK Settles 80,000 Zantac Lawsuits for $2.2 Billion, Shares Surge 6%
  • Lawsuits against GSK began after the FDA requested the removal of Zantac from the market in 2020 due to concerns about its potential to degrade into a known carcinogen.

  • Additionally, GSK has agreed to pay $70 million to settle a whistleblower lawsuit filed by Valisure, pending approval from the U.S. Department of Justice.

  • GSK has agreed to pay $2.2 billion to settle around 80,000 lawsuits related to its discontinued heartburn medication, Zantac, which has been linked to cancer.

  • The settlement, announced recently, is part of a broader agreement totaling nearly $2.3 billion to resolve most ongoing lawsuits concerning Zantac.

  • This settlement resolves approximately 93% of the pending lawsuits against GSK in the United States, addressing claims that Zantac caused harm to users.

  • Despite the settlements, GSK maintains that it has not admitted any liability and asserts there is no consistent evidence linking Zantac to an increased cancer risk.

  • Plaintiff law firms have recommended that their clients accept the settlement terms, which are expected to be implemented by mid-2025.

  • GSK believes these settlements align with its long-term strategy, alleviating financial uncertainty and distractions from ongoing litigation.

  • To account for the settlements, GSK plans to recognize a charge of approximately $2.3 billion in its third-quarter 2024 financial results.

  • The costs associated with the settlements will be funded through existing resources, ensuring that GSK's growth and research plans remain unaffected.

  • Following the announcement of the settlement, GSK's shares rose by 6%, reflecting positive investor sentiment.

  • Analysts view this settlement as a significant step in resolving GSK's prolonged legal challenges, reducing investment risks associated with the company's stock.

Summary based on 13 sources


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