Pfizer sued over alleged Viagra-related death

The estate of a Tennessee man is suing a pharmaceutical company, alleging Viagra is to blame for the decedent's melanoma-related death.

Tina M. Stockton filed a lawsuit on April 2 in Madison County Circuit Court, individually and as estate administrator for David G. Stockton, against Pfizer Inc., headquartered in Delaware, alleging negligence.

The suit alleges wrongful conduct in the design, development, manufacture and sale of Viagra.

According to court documents, David Stockton began pharmaceutical treatment for erectile dysfunction in 2000. Under his doctor’s advice, he continued to take the medication until approximately 2007. He passed away on Sept. 9, 2008.

The decedent’s death certificate listed pulmonary embolism consequent to metastatic mucosal melanoma as the cause of death. The plaintiff claims Pfizer did not properly disclose melanoma-related risks in taking the medication. She further argues that if David Stockton had known of the risks, he would have limited his usage in duration and dosage.

Tina Stockton alleges negligence, liability, breach of implied and express warranty, fraud, misrepresentation, fraudulent concealment, gross negligence and violation of consumer protection laws. She seeks punitive damages in excess of $50,000, plus attorneys’ fees and costs.

The plaintiff is represented by Thomas Lech of Goldenberg, Heller, Antognoli and Rowland in Edwardsville.

Madison County Circuit Court case number 15-L-423