Pfizer, Widow Reach Settlement In Neurontin Wrongful Death Case

Pfizer Inc. has agreed to settle a suit by the widow of a man who committed suicide after taking Neurontin for two months to treat chronic pain (Smith v. Pfizer Inc.).

The parties announced the settlement May 17 to Judge Aleta A. Trauger of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee.

Richard Smith, 79, committed suicide May 13, 2004. He had been taking Neurontin for two months. Although the Food and Drug Administration has approved Neurontin to treat epilepsy and post-herpetic neuralgia, doctors frequently prescribe the drug off-label to treat pain. Smith’s widow, Ruth Smith, ...