(NaturalHealth365)  Texas just secured a $41.5 million settlement from two major pharmaceutical companies accused of knowingly distributing defective ADHD medication to thousands of children for six years. The allegations reveal a disturbing pattern: altered test results, ignored federal warnings, and a compromised drug that families reported simply didn’t work.

Attorney General Ken Paxton’s lawsuit against Pfizer and Tris Pharma centered on Quillivant XR, a liquid ADHD medication for children.  The companies allegedly continued distributing the drug despite internal and federal warnings that manufacturing problems had compromised its effectiveness.

How the alleged deception unfolded over six years

According to the 2023 lawsuit, Tris Pharma manufactured Quillivant XR for Pfizer from 2012 to 2018.  During those years, the drug repeatedly failed quality control tests due to flawed manufacturing practices.  Rather than fix the underlying problems or alert regulators, the lawsuit alleges both companies simply changed how they tested the drug to ensure it passed regulatory requirements.

Pfizer allegedly misled Texas Medicaid officials by insisting the medication was properly manufactured.  Meanwhile, families across Texas reported that the medicine failed to control their children’s ADHD symptoms.  Yet neither company disclosed the known manufacturing issues.

In 2018, the FDA told Pfizer that Quillivant had been “adulterated starting in 2012 and continuing into 2018,” citing deficient manufacturing practices that affected how the medication dissolved in the body.  Despite this assessment, neither company notified Texas Medicaid, which continued to reimburse for the drug.  Quillivant’s Medicaid status even “became a selling point.”

The case originated with whistleblower Tarik Ahmed, Tris Pharma’s head of technology from 2013 to 2017.  In 2012, Pfizer agreed to acquire the developer of Quillivant for up to $700 million.  By 2017, Quillivant grossed roughly $193.3 million in U.S. sales.  Both companies denied liability as part of the settlement.

When Schedule II drugs don’t work as promised

ADHD medications are Schedule II controlled substances – the same classification as morphine and oxycodone – due to their high potential for abuse and dependence.  These powerful stimulants directly affect brain chemistry and development in children.

When an ADHD medication doesn’t work correctly due to manufacturing defects, children may be subjected to unnecessary dose increases, additional medications, or switches between different drugs, all carrying their own risks and side effects.

This settlement represents one of multiple actions Paxton has taken against pharmaceutical companies, including suits against Johnson & Johnson over Tylenol safety claims and Eli Lilly over alleged doctor bribery.

Natural approaches that support focus and attention

The pharmaceutical industry’s track record suggests parents need alternatives that don’t depend on corporate integrity.

Eliminate artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, processed sugars, and high-fructose corn syrup, which are linked to hyperactivity and blood sugar swings.  Focus on whole foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids from wild-caught fish.

Address critical nutrient deficiencies.  Magnesium deficiency affects nearly 75% of Americans and contributes to hyperactivity and poor focus.  Zinc supports dopamine function.  Iron and B-complex vitamins prove essential for cognitive function and nervous system health.

Reduce environmental toxin exposure.  Heavy metals, PFAS chemicals, and pesticide residues disrupt neurological function.  Choose organic produce, filter drinking water, and eliminate toxic sources in your home.

Support gut health through probiotic-rich foods, adequate fiber, and elimination of inflammatory foods.  The gut-brain axis directly influences focus and behavior.  Functional testing can identify food sensitivities to gluten and dairy that frequently contribute to ADHD symptoms.

Discover proven strategies pharmaceutical companies don’t want you to know

The $41.5 million settlement reveals how far pharmaceutical companies will allegedly go to keep profitable drugs on the market, even when the victims are children.

Jonathan Landsman’s Whole Body Detox Summit brings together 27 leading scientists, researchers, doctors, and nutritionists who reveal proven protocols for eliminating toxins that contribute to ADHD and neurological issues.  Discover strategies for removing heavy metals, pesticides, and chemicals that damage developing brains, how to identify if detoxification pathways are blocked, and dietary changes that support focus and attention naturally.

Sources for this article include:

Oag.state.tx.us
Childrenshealthdefense.org