Effexor Suit Barred by Learned Intermediary Doctrine

HARRISBURG, Pa. - The learned intermediary doctrine bars failure-to-warn claims brought on behalf of a man who committed suicide after taking Wyeth's antidepressant Effexor, a Pennsylvania judge ruled, finding that the prescribing physicians was aware of the drug's risks. Aaron v. Wyeth, No. 2:07-927 (W.D. Pa.).

On Feb. 19, Judge David S. Cercone of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania granted Wyeth's motion for summary judgment, finding that the drug's warnings were adequate and that the prescribing doctor was "warned of the relevant risks."

Dale Aaron sued Wyeth, alleging that Randy Aaron's 2005 suicide was caused …