The Spanish Supreme Court has sparked outrage among activists by dismissing a civil case against the painkiller Nolotil, which has been linked to at least 40 deaths of British and Irish expats. The lawsuit, filed by the Association for Drug Affected People's (ADAF) leader Cristina del Campo, alleged that Spanish authorities failed to properly regulate the drug, leading to these fatalities.
We know what this drug is capable of doing, over 40 countries have banned it because it is dangerous, they have no regard for the patient’s or people’s lives in generalCristina del Campo, Association for Drug Affected People's (ADAF) leader
Del Campo expressed her disappointment, stating that over 40 countries have banned Nolotil due to its dangers, and that the court's decision shows disregard for human life. The judge ruled that the case did not constitute a violation of human rights.
Background of the Case:
The Spanish government issued a directive in 2018 preventing the sale of Nolotil to Northern Europeans without a prescription. However, the ADAF alleged that this advice was not being followed, leading to further deaths. The case highlighted 350 suspected cases of agranulocytosis, a potentially deadly side effect of Nolotil, between 1996 and 2023. This includes 170 cases involving Britons living in or visiting Spain.
Consequences and Next Steps:
Despite the court's decision, Del Campo and her team are preparing to file a criminal complaint alleging the drug's lack of safety. The ADAF's case included medical records of patients affected by Nolotil, demonstrating the severe consequences of the drug's use. The dismissal of the civil case has significant implications for public health and safety in Spain.
International Context:
The World Health Organization and other regulatory bodies have not been mentioned in the context of this lawsuit. However, the fact that over 40 countries have banned Nolotil raises questions about the drug's safety and efficacy. Further investigation and scrutiny of Nolotil's regulation and use are necessary to protect public health.
Reference:
1. Bostyn, Yzabelle. “Outrage after Civil Case against ‘Lethal’ Painkiller Nolotil Is Thrown out by Spain’s Supreme Court.” Olive Press News Spain, November 1, 2024. https://www.theolivepress.es/spain/2024/11/03/outrage-after-civil-case-against-lethal-painkiller-nolotil-is-thrown-out-by-spains-supreme-court.
(Input From Various Sources)
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