A multi-state prescription drug class action in which the UW Law School's Consumer Law Litigation Clinic represented Wisconsin consumers has been settled for $30.7 million. The suit was filed on behalf of consumers who purchased the drug Hytrin, which doctors prescribe to treat hypertension and enlarged prostates. Most of the persons who use it are senior citizens. Abbott Laboratories manufactures the name brand drug, while Geneva Pharmaceuticals manufactures its generic version, called Terazosin.

Consumer Clinic director Steve Meili appeared on television on "Live at 5" to discuss the case on Thursday, July 7.

According to the lawsuit, Abbott wrongfully paid Geneva to delay introduction of its generic version of Hytrin and took other steps to delay competition from lower-priced generic versions of its product. The complaint alleges that this illegal activity harmed consumers, who paid higher prices for their drugs as a result.

The class action was filed in 18 different states, including Wisconsin. The Consumer Law Litigation Clinic, together with the Seattle firm Keller Rohrback (spearheaded by UW Law alumni Lynn Sarko, Britt Tinglum, and Erin Riley) and other counsel, represents the Wisconsin consumers.

Wisconsin consumers who purchased the drugs (i.e. Hytrin or its generic equivalent Terazosin) between October 15, 1995, and March 7, 2005 are eligible for a refund.  The amount of the refund for each eligible consumer will depend on how much they purchased and how many consumers file claims against the settlement fund.

To be eligible to receive a refund, consumers must file claims.  The original cut-off date for filing was July 15, 2005; it is possible that an extension of the deadline will be announced.  To obtain a claim form or to obtain more information about the settlement, consumers may call toll-free to (877) 886-0283, or visit the settlement website:

www.terazosinlitigation.com .

Submitted by on July 5, 2005

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