Two courts handling lawsuits over side effects from the lung cancer drug Iressa have recommended that the cases be settled, saying the government and a drug distributor are responsible for compensating the patients and families of the deceased.
At the Tokyo and Osaka district courts, 15 people are seeking ¥180 million in compensation from the government and AstraZeneca K.K., saying they knew Iressa had dangerous side effects but failed to take the steps needed to prevent damage.
In response to the plaintiffs' request for a settlement recommendation, the courts presented a redress framework Friday covering plaintiffs who took the drug between its official approval date of July 5, 2002, and Oct. 15 the same year, when a warning against the drug was issued, and died from or suffered side effects.
They also urged the government and the company to hold talks with patients who have developed disorders from the drug since the warning was issued, and requested both sides give their opinions on the recommendation by Jan. 28.
The trials at the courts have already concluded, with the Tokyo court scheduled to hand down its ruling on March 23 and the Osaka court Feb. 25.