According to new studies, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Paxil and Prozac are no more effective in treating depression than placebos in patients with mild or moderate forms of the mental health condition. SSRIs are one of the most widely used and expensive drugs available on the market, and are among the drugs covered by Medicare and Medicaid. If pharmaceutical companies are knowingly marketing ineffective SSRIs, it could be alleged that they are committing Medicare or Medicaid fraud when government funds are used to pay for these drugs.
When a company or entity defrauds the government, a private citizen can come forward with insider information on the fraudulent activity and file a claim on behalf of the government. Under the False Claims Act, this individual is known as a whistleblower, and stands to receive a percentage of the government’s recovery. If you have knowledge of a pharmaceutical company knowingly marketing ineffective drugs, you may have an opportunity to help recover lost government funds and receive a reward for your efforts. To learn more about your rights as a whistleblower, contact our attorneys today for a free consultation.
Studies on SSRI Effectiveness
A new study found in the Journal of American Medical Association examined the results from six antidepressant trials conducted on a total of 718 patients with mild to moderate depression. The study revealed that these drugs worked just as well as placebos in patients with mild to moderate depression, and only showed a substantial effect on those with very severe depression. It is believed that patients with mild forms of depression are often the ones who seek out professional help, though the exact number of patients with milder cases of depression who take antidepressants is unknown. A researcher cited a survey, however, which revealed that 71% of all patients seeking depression treatment had milder forms of the disease.
Report Medicare, Medicaid Fraud
Are you aware of a pharmaceutical company which is knowingly selling an ineffective SSRI? If so, you may be able to file a False Claims Act lawsuit to recoup the money lost through alleged government fraud. While it may be difficult to come forward with your information, our False Claims Act lawyers have a full understanding of the rights afforded to whistleblowers and will work hard to ensure you are fully compensated for your efforts in coming forward. To contact our attorneys today in regard to your claim, complete our free case review form. Keep in mind that all False Claims Act lawsuits are filed confidentially, and federal law provides job protection for those who elect to blow the whistle.