Healthy Skepticism Library item: 9865

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Giles J.
Court case to reclaim confidential data
Nature (subscription required) 2007 Apr 19; 446:(7138):838-839
http://www.nature.com/news/2007/070416/full/446838a.html

Abstract:

Prosecution highlights how drug data can be removed from public view.

A public-health expert in the United States is facing a potential jail term or a hefty fine after distributing documents that contain safety data on a blockbuster drug. The material came to light during initial negotiations in an ongoing lawsuit over the drug, and its manufacturer says that the information should have remained confidential.

The case, which could result in charges of contempt being levelled against the expert, shines light on the murky debates that go on between lawyers before drug liability cases get to court. Legal experts say that the negotiations often end with crucial data being sealed from public view after lawyers have finished with it, even though they could be relevant to public health.