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Herbicide Gramoxone May be Linked to Parkinson’s Disease in New Lawsuit

Written by AskTheLawyers.com™

Herbicide Gramoxone May be Linked to Parkinson’s Disease in New Lawsuit

Written by AskTheLawyers.com™

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As nationwide litigation surrounding Bayer AG’s Roundup weedkiller is coming to a close, new litigation has arisen in regard to the herbicide paraquat, sold under the brand name “Gramoxone”. Already banned in the European Union, Brazil, and China, the toxic chemicals in this herbicide are suspected to lead to Parkinson’s disease in those who experience chronic exposure to the substance, such as maintenance and agricultural workers.

Paraquat has been used as a popular alternative to Roundup Weedkiller.

Paraquat or Gramoxone is a popular herbicide due largely to its effectiveness at killing unwanted weeds—especially those which have built up a resistance to Roundup. Mixed with water to be sprayed on crops, agricultural workers are typically at much higher risk of chronic exposure to the toxic chemical than those who work in other professions. It should be noted that aside from the possible link to Parkinson’s disease, paraquat is already known to be highly toxic with the potential to fatally poison; this is why only licensed professionals are allowed to apply it. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued strong warnings about the product, pointing out that even one accidental sip is typically fatal and there is no antidote or treatment. 

Gramoxone is the most common form of the herbicide and is produced by Syngenta.

ChemChina's Syngenta Group and Chevron USA are both addressed in the lawsuit and may be liable for the resulting damages. While Syngenta is responsible for manufacturing and marketing Gramoxone, the chemical was also previously sold in partnership with Chevron, potentially opening up liability for the well-known energy company. If the lawsuit finds that either company was negligent in the marketing or sale of the product, they could be liable for the damages of anyone who can link their Parkinson’s disease to exposure to the chemical. Additionally, if the lawsuit finds that the product is inherently defective, Syngenta and other manufacturers could be facing serious liability claims from the injured parties and their families.

Parkinson’s Disease is an incurable and degenerative brain disease that can lead to loss of muscle coordination.

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects mobility and coordination. Early symptoms of Parkinson’s may include tremors in the hands, stiffness, and slowing of movement. Constipation and difficulty balancing may follow. The face may also become unexpressive and it may be difficult to swing your arms while you walk according to the Mayo Clinic. Speech may also be impeded, becoming softened or slurred as the disease progresses. While the link between paraquat and Parkinson’s disease has not been fully established yet, many suspect that long-term exposure to the chemical can result in a development of the disease. This question in addition to the question of liability will likely be answered in the expected paraquat/Gramoxone litigation.

If you or a loved one were exposed to paraquat and developed Parkinson’s disease, you may be eligible to file a claim and pursue compensation for your damages including medical bill, lost wages, and more. To learn more about the ongoing paraquat litigation or to investigate your own claim, reach out to an experienced product liability attorney in your area.

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