South Carolina Settles $7.4 Billion Opioid Case with Purdue Pharma

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) — South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced a significant $7.4 billion settlement on Tuesday with Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family, addressing their involvement in the ongoing opioid crisis.

The agreement permanently bars the Sackler family from leading Purdue Pharma and prohibits them from selling opioids in the United States. Wilson emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “The Sackler family knowingly drove an epidemic that shattered families and took thousands of lives. This settlement sends a powerful and unmistakable message: if you profit from the suffering and death of South Carolinians, we will hold you accountable, no matter how powerful you are.”

South Carolina is set to receive approximately $72.8 million over the next 15 years as part of the deal, with funds earmarked for opioid addiction treatment, recovery, and prevention programs.

Wilson noted that South Carolina joined a coalition of states, including California, Colorado, and Massachusetts, in reaching this settlement. He called it a major victory in the battle to hold those responsible for the opioid epidemic accountable, describing the crisis as “one of the most devastating public health crises in American history.”

Since the introduction of Purdue’s OxyContin in 1996, the country has seen a tragic rise in opioid-related deaths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported nearly 727,000 opioid overdose deaths from 1999 to 2022, with South Carolina ranking 11th in the nation for overdose rates.

Wilson’s office highlighted the need for continued vigilance in addressing this health crisis. “This is just the beginning, and we will continue to pursue justice for the people of South Carolina,” Wilson added.