Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty by Radden Keefe
Appreciation and Acknowledgment in 'Empire of Pain'
A culmination of Gratitude Expressed
Radden Keefe, before anything else, took a moment to appreciate the bravery of all those individuals who shared their personal stories, contributing significantly to 'Empire of Pain'. The trust they put in him to narrate their tales was not lost on him.
Dedication to Data Digging
An enormous thank you went out to the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. Their provision of classified banking data about the Sacklers significantly advanced Keefe’s extensive research, enriching his insights for the better.
Pandemic's Role in the Process
Keefe did not fail to consider the effects of COVID-19 on his journey of writing 'Empire of Pain'. The resilience and adaptability he noticed in his children during these testing times offered an unanticipated viewpoint.
Nailing the Opioid Crisis: 'Empire of Pain'
The Unseen Observer
Diving into 'Empire of Pain', it's hard to shake off the eerie fact that the writer was watched closely by a silent figure. This almost cinematic incident, the book hints, might have been a cloak-and-dagger form of intimidation. Creepy, yet profoundly interesting.
Unraveling Connection to Mexican Cartels
The reel of the story starts with a mine of information on the Mexican drug cartels, which eventually maps back to OxyContin and the dubious doings of the Sackler family. The string that ties gang-filled alleyways of Mexico to corporate boardrooms is drawn in a fascinating manner.
Facing the Sackler Resistance
The book's narrative meets a unique challenge-- facing threats from lawyers representing the Sacklers. It's commendable how the writer stays committed to unfold their involvement in the opioid crisis, bravely standing up to an intimidating force.
Philanthropy Vs. Corruption
The Sackler family is pushed into the spotlight, a deeply scrutinized ventriloquist for their philanthropy, criminal conduct, corruption, and abuse of power. 'Empire of Pain' sets a narrative that dissects each of these areas with care, making sure the whole picture is clearly seen.
The Emergence of a Medical Entrepreneur
Ambition Meets Talent
Born in Brooklyn in 1913, Arthur Sackler demonstrated a relentless drive for accomplishment right from his early years. His remarkable academic achievements at Erasmus Hall High School are a testimony to this fact. Despite confronting financial distress during the Great Depression, his perseverance led him to juggle his pre-med studies at New York University while supporting his family.
Journey Through Medical School
Sackler's intelligence and tenacity secured his acceptance into NYU's medical school. Here, his passion for medicine blossomed as he immersed himself in his studies and revered the pioneers of the field. Even amidst tight financial constraints, he proved resourceful, managing to buy a store for his parents.
A Budding Entrepreneur
Besides medicine, Sackler demonstrated a keen eye for business opportunities, an interest that manifested in his medical school years. The balance he struck between his dual interests is evident by his act of working as a copywriter for a pharmaceutical company, Schering, while concurrently studying. This blend of medical knowledge and business acumen set the stage for his ensuing illustrious career.
Navigating Adversities in Medical Innovation
An Encounter Fated by Song
Once upon a time, in the bustling city of New York, a German doctor named Marietta Lutze lays her roots. Despite tripping over the hurdles of being an immigrant and a woman in medicine, she lands up at a hospital in Far Rockaway. Amidst the stark walls of the hospital, a melodious note strikes out, leading to an encounter with Arthur Sackler, the older sibling of the gifted Sackler brothers Mortimer and Raymond.
Education Amidst Discrimination
Riddled with the discriminatory Jewish medical school quotas of the time, the Sackler brothers had to embark on their medical journey from outside the United States. Despite the hardships, the brothers prevailed, amassing knowledge and skills that would later shape their professional future.
A Breakthrough in Mental Illness Research
Working alongside his brothers at the Creedmoor psychiatric hospital, Arthur Sackler unravels the complexities of mental illness. Probing the minds of patients with histamine injections, they make strides in understanding the biochemistry of mental disorders. Their groundbreaking findings illuminate the professional front, gaining media acknowledgment and stirring intrigue across the medical spectrum.
Arthur Sackler: The Game-changer of Pharmaceuticals
Redefining Pharmaceutical Advertising
Picture Arthur Sackler in the 1940s, creating waves in the pharmaceutical advertising industry. Employed by William Douglas McAdams and recruited by Pfizer to promote their new antibiotic, Terramycin, Sackler disrupted the traditional norms. Offering a new direction, he looked towards direct marketing to doctors and scientific studies as endorsements of new drugs.
A New Era in Medical Advertising
Through successfully propelling Terramycin into the marketplace, Arthur ascended to become the president of McAdams and thus began the transformation of medical advertising. He sold drugs to doctors as if they were consumer products and highlighted the significance of pharmaceutical companies developing recognizable brand names. His outstanding achievements, however, weren't without controversy.
Controversy and Collaboration
Rumors swirled regarding Sackler's involvement with the L. W. Frohlich agency, a competitor in the field. His career had its hurdles - allegations of communist ties during the McCarthy era and being targeted by anti-Semitism. Amid all this, he formed a strong bond with Bill Frohlich, a competitor turned ally. Together they decided to share all their corporate assets; a move intending to ultimately form a charitable trust to endow the public.
Unveiling the Controversial Tranquilizers: Librium and Valium
From Discovery to Unprecedented Success
The saga unfolds with Leo Sternbach, a chemist at Roche pharmaceuticals, discovering Librium, a minor tranquilizer, in the year 1957. This triggered a trend among pharmaceutical companies to develop similar tranquilizers of their own, setting the stage for a new generation of widely acclaimed medications.
The Marketing Ploys
Roche's partnership with Arthur Sackler, an advertising whizz, led to the development of innovative marketing strategies for these drugs. In spite of the questionable legality of direct-to-consumer advertising, both Roche and Sackler went full throttle ahead to promote these drugs, marketing them as the go-to remedy for an array of conditions. However, not all the promoted benefits were backed by solid scientific evidence.
The Unforeseen Aftermath
Despite the booming success of Librium and Valium, it soon became evident that these miracle drugs were not as non-addictive or harmless as they were made out to be. Amidst rising dependency and increasing evidence of side effects, they were finally subjected to regulation. However, for millions of Americans already in the grip of addiction, these safety measures came too late. Notably, both Roche and Arthur Sackler sought to understate their roles in the controversy surrounding these drugs.
Unravelling the Collector’s Chronicle
Instinctive Fascination with Unseen Beauty
Arthur Sackler's mounting interest in Chinese art and furniture began in the 1950s. Not swayed by public opinion, Arthur found himself attracted to the unseen beauty and historical richness of these Chinese artifacts in suburban Long Island. His local connection was Bill Drummond, a man steeped in eclectic history and owner of a Chinese furniture collection.
Obsession Breeds Success
Arthur's instincts gradually blossomed into an obsession for collecting Chinese art. Investing time and resources, he accumulated a large trove of artifacts, artworks, and furniture. His entry into the art world was marked by lavish expenditures and shrewd negotiations, solidifying his credibility amongst seasoned collectors and dealers.
Legacy through Philanthropy
Arthur's collection gained acclaim at Columbia University, where he generously contributed to Asian studies. This collector's appetite for art was match equally by his desire for anonymity in donations, enshrining his legacy under the Sackler name instead. His deep connection with his collection brought him comfort, control, and a perceived sense of immortality.
The Groundbreaking Antibiotic Symposium
Unveiling Antibiotic Resistances
The antibiotic symposium of 1956 marked a significant milestone. Keynote speaker Dr. Henry Welch, leaned on his authority as the FDA's chief of antibiotics, steering attention to a rising concern - drug-resistant bacteria, thus echoing the astounding need for ongoing research in antibiotics.
The Underlying Ties and Contested Ethics
FDA and MD Publications jointly ensured the success of this seminal event. Welch, while also serving as a co-editor of MD Publications, was later accused of profiting personally while endorsing antibiotics in his speech. Their collaboration spawned an intriguing narrative in the pharmaceutical arena.
Stakes Raised with Investigations
Investigative journalist John Lear and Senator Estes Kefauver were the torch bearers that cast light on the murky marketing tactics of pharmaceutical companies. The latter even launched an investigation into the industry's trade practices, venturing into the grey sphere of conflicts of interest.
Preserving History: The Tale of the Dendur Temple
The Movement to Save Dendur Temple
Imagine a monumental temple standing on the bank of the Nile, threatened by a newly erected dam. On the brink of being submerged, an international crusade comes to the rescue. The aid doesn't just come from anywhere; it's the United States throwing a lifeline of $16 million to help relocate the enduring symbol of ancient civilization.
The Metropolitan Museum's Opportune Moment
In another part of the world, the Metropolitan Museum of Art was experiencing financial struggles. Spotting an opportunity amidst the crisis, The Met decided to secure funds for a renovation project that incorporated air-conditioning units to preserve art pieces from potential heat damage.
The Sackler Family's Conditional Benefaction
To its rescue came Arthur Sackler. When approached by The Met, Arthur, together with his brothers, agreed to donate a whopping $3.5 million. However, this magnanimous gesture came with strings attached. The brothers sought naming rights and more, leading to what would become a controversial addition to the museum.
Controversies Following the Move to The Met
Yet, even as the temple was christened anew within the Met’s Sackler Wing spectacularly, a darker side of the tale was unfolding. The Met’s financial arrangements came under public ire, further intensified by Arthur Sackler’s questionable relationships. Amid all this, the temple's move opened room for debate around the ethics of museum funding, casting a shadow over the philanthropic gesture of the Sacklers.
The Lasting Impact of the Dendur Temple's Relocation
The ripple effects of these events continue to resonate. The Sacklers’ engagement in reshaping The Met underscores the considerable sway wealthy donors can hold over cultural institutions, significantly defining their direction and image. With the Temple’s relocation, it highlighted not just an act of preservation, but also unveiled the hidden power dynamics behind the affluent world of art and culture.
Tangled Ties in the Sackler Dynasty
Love, Life and Luxury Abroad
Mortimer Sackler stumbled upon love when his path crossed with young Austrian lady, Gertraud or Geri Wimmer. Embracing a new life, Mortimer took up a European playboy persona, relishing luxurious sights across the border. This journey-turned-lifestyle experiment also marked the welcomed arrival of his daughter, Samantha from Geri.
While love brewed in a foreign land, resentment brewed back home. Arthur Sackler envied his brother's extravagant and carefree lifestyle that seemed only possible due to his dedication and diligence.
The Tangled Dealings of Business Inheritance
The death of Bill Frohlich, a common bud between the Sackler brothers, led to the unearthing of a business inheritance secret. Arthur learned he was denied a major share in a company named IMS.
This betrayal from his brothers Mortimer and Raymond added fuel to the already blazing fire of rivalry. It widened the rift among the Sackler boys, adding more strain to their relationship.
A Tragic Loss Echoes Through the Family
Mortimer's son, Bobby, was embroiled in a battle of his own against emotional and mental health issues. His struggle ended tragically in a leap from the ninth floor, leaving an indelible mark on the Sackler family.
The personal pains and struggles of the Sackler family, marked by tragedies and feuds, illustrates the shadow side of their wealth and prosperity.
A Dive Into Arthur Sackler's Life
A Failed Attempt at Intimacy
The ninth installment dives into Arthur Sackler's personal life, showcasing a deepening chasm between Arthur and his wife, Marietta. As Arthur grew more engrossed with his pursuits, he became insular, drifting not only from Marietta, but also their children, Arthur Felix, and Denise.
An Untimely Confession
In a pivotal scene, Arthur shocks Marietta with a confession about an ongoing affair with a younger woman, Jillian. Marietta's question about his feelings for her was met with an uneasy confession that his love for her had been replaced by his newfound passion for Jillian.
The Art of Making It Work
Despite the tumultuous relationship, the couple maintained their social appearances, such as at a planned birthday party for Arthur. Here, Marietta masked her feelings with a speech adorned with praises for Arthur’s accomplishments, ironically titled 'Sixty Years of Underachievement'.
Unlocking the Legacy of Arthur Sackler
Uncovering Sackler's Dual Identities
In 1985, esteemed philanthropist Arthur Sackler delivered a captivating speech at Harvard University's Sanders Theatre. He raved about mankind's power to dominate nature and outsmart death, all while marking the inauguration of the Arthur M. Sackler Museum, generously funded by him. Simultaneously, the Smithsonian was planning another museum named after Sackler. Interestingly, Sackler's biography, supplied for the Smithsonian, skillfully sidestepped mentioning his pharmaceutical advertising agency and his key role in the development of popular drugs - Valium and Librium.
Sackler's Struggles and the Scandal
As his health deteriorated, Sackler found himself grappling with worries about finances and his legacy. Amid these concerns, his ex-wife Marietta noticed him seeming unsettled and distracted during a luncheon. His wife Jillian became the subject of an unfortunate scandal as certain pieces in her collection of ancient jewelry, aimed for an exhibition, were questioned for their authenticity.
Final Days and Memorable Mark
With a downward spiral in Sackler's health, he found himself admitted to the hospital under a pseudonym, unable to receive his final family visit. Post his passing, elaborate tributes and memorials paid homage to his impactful legacy.
A Tale of Two Columbians
The Wealthy Roommate
Richard Kapit's freshman year at Columbia University introduces him to a world of opulence through his well-off roommate, Richard Sackler. Sackler's affinity for the finer things—cheap cigars and fine wine—intrigues Kapit, who soon becomes dependent on his wealthy companion's generous handouts.
Beyond Book Learning
While academic pursuits fail to arouse Sackler's interest, he's quite intrigued by the biology behind intimate pleasures. So intrigued, in fact, that he convinces Kapit to spend an entire summer investigating human pleasure.
A Strained Friendship
Despite their close bond, Sackler's inability to consider others' feelings and his own personal interests above all create an emotional distance between the roommates—to the extent that Kapit decides to terminate both their living situation and friendship altogether.
The Aftermath
The friendships's abrupt end doesn't slow Sackler down; he sets off to join the family business and medical school. It leaves a stark contrast between the path Kapit had known and Sackler's ongoing journey within an affluent life that began in his family's lavish house on East Sixty-Second Street.
The Sackler Family's Pharmaceutical Ventures
Fortuitous Real Estate and New Leadership
In the early 1970s, a real estate entity directed by Raymond Sackler scooped up a coveted Connecticut estate left behind by deceased millionaire W.T. Grant. Around the same time, Raymond's son, Richard, was preparing to take the helm of the family's pharmaceutical business, Purdue Frederick.
The Cell of Innovation
Regarded as brusque and headstrong, Richard harbored a keen interest in scientific exploration. His determined inclusivity in product development was met with resistance from colleagues rather than admiration. Despite the rocky interoffice relations, Richard's presence brought a much-needed innovative streak to Purdue Frederick.
The Birth of a Breakthrough
The company's absence from the cutting-edge prescription industry was rectified when Napp Laboratories, overseen by Richard’s uncle Mortimer, came up with a revolutionary opioid painkiller called MS Contin. The drug was introduced in the U.S market, bypassing FDA approval in a gamble that raised eyebrows and legal flags. However, the business maneuver paid off, with MS Contin raking in hundreds of millions in annual revenue.
Unraveling Arthur Sackler's Legacy
Shadows of a Deceased Mogul
The passage delves into the contentious aftermath following Arthur Sackler's demise. Unearthed secrets reveal that Arthur had borrowed from his ex-wife Else and made voluminous pledges towards art and charity, adding layers of complexity to his obscured wealth.
Family Strike a Discord
Arthur's financial ambiguity sparked resentment within his kin, particularly his daughter Elizabeth. Tensions between her and Sackler's third wife Jillian escalated into high-stake legal warfare, costing the family dearly.
Flouting the Musketeers' Accord
The original musketeers agreement, entailing the passing of business interests to remaining siblings and eventually charity, appeared dismissed at Arthur's death. This desertion sparked further inheritance disputes among the Sacklers.
The Pharmaceutical Patent Playbook
Unlocking the Patent Monopoly
Delving into the realm of pharmaceutical patents, the narrative brings light to how they act as temporary monopolies, aiding innovation by fostering knowledge sharing. However, there's a ticking time bomb in the form of patent expiration. Once expired, the fortress comes crashing down, paving way for generic competition, leading to a significant drop in profits for the original drug manufacturers.
The Sacklers' Stance Against Generics
Moving on to a major pharma player, the Sackler brothers, especially Arthur, are portrayed as vehement opponents of generic drugs. Using their publication, the Medical Tribune, as a broadcast medium, they campaigned against cheaper alternatives citing quality control issues. Highlighting their aversion towards generics, it was falsely claimed that patients had adverse reactions when switched from a branded antipsychotic to a generic substitute. Their concerted efforts aimed to maintain their profit margins and monopoly in the pharmaceutical world.
The Transition to Pain Management
The story takes an interesting turn when Purdue Frederick, under the stewardship of the Sacklers, transitions into pain management. To establish a foothold, they drove a conference to reexamine the treatment of pain. Medical testimonials spoke highly about the effectiveness of their painkiller, MS Contin, dispelling myths about addiction and essentially understanding pain management from a different perspective.
OxyContin: The Game-Changing Drug
The final piece of the puzzle is the advent of OxyContin, a new opioid painkiller born from the idea of Richard and Kathe Sackler. Recognizing the potency of oxycodone, they envisaged a prospects beyond the cancer pain market, aiming for the chronic, non-malignant pain segment. This marked a pivotal point for Purdue and the Sacklers, and was a calculated move to leverage the larger market, amplifying their profits significantly.
Unraveling The Rise of Opioids
The Opium Debate
Star of the show, the opium poppy has been lauded for thousands of years for its medicinal properties. Its miraculous ability to relieve pain also classifies it as a potential poison. Such was its profitable allure that it spurred wars between Britain and China in the 19th century.
Opioids: Blessing or Curse
Morphine and Heroin, lie in the roster of opioids that not only served recreational pleasures but also served as legitimate treatments. Heroin was pitched as a non-hazardous opposite of morphine, only to later be identified just as addictive. Moreover, these opioids insidiously instigate physical dependance, escalating dosage needs for either pain relief or euphoria.
On The Road to OxyContin
Richard Sackler and Purdue Pharma poured their determination into making OxyContin a grand success. The drug was introduced as a safer morphine stand-in, specifically aimed at relieving non-cancer pains. Influential figures like Dr. Russel Portenoy were vital in reframing the attitude towards opioids.
Manipulating Approvals
In the quest for FDA approval, Purdue Pharma didn't shy away from the selling points of safety and resistance to abuse for OxyContin. Curtis Wright, an FDA official supervising the clearance, was reported to be working in close association with Purdue representatives. His move to Purdue following the approval left lingering questions about course of integrity.
The Unseen Dangers Behind Gold Plating
The Ignored Warnings
When hazardous chemicals get mixed by untrained hands, disaster is inevitable. In Lodi, New Jersey, a gold-plating plant hired inexperienced workers to handle volatile chemicals. A fatal mistake was made when water was accidentally introduced to these chemicals, triggering a devastating explosion.
The Price of Negligence
This explosion did not just claim lives, it also resulted in job loss for remaining employees. Following the explosion, the repercussions extended to environmental impact with the surrounding area left polluted.
Behind the Tragedy
However, accountable parties remained comfortably detached. The owners of the plant, the Sackler family, cleverly kept their distance from the tragedy, despite their direct involvement. Their denial and refusal to openly acknowledge the disaster sparked outrage.
The Big Revelation
Despite their best efforts, their connection to the incident was soon exposed by journalists. This courageous journalistic work also highlighted the cover-up attempts made by the Sackler family. This devastating incident remains a critical example of the dangers of neglecting safety regulations at workplaces.
The Meteoric Rise of OxyContin
An Unprecedented Launch
In 1996, Purdue Pharma released OxyContin, its flagship product. Hype surrounded the product launch, with company honcho Richard Sackler heralding OxyContin's potential to revolutionise pain treatment and conquer the market in a manner likened to a dominating blizzard.
The Art of Selling a Revolution
Sales representatives played a significant role, alleviating any potential concerns regarding the drug's addictive nature due to its slow-release mechanism. A systematic approach, involving the sponsoring of medical conferences and advocacy for strong opioids, further propelled OxyContin sales. Purdue Pharma even, ambitiously, implemented complimentary drug sampling for pain patients.
The Quest for More
The company didn't rest on its laurels; it spurred doctors to increase the prescribed dose of OxyContin over time, escalating their profits. Such strategies lead to Purdue Pharma becoming a premiere pharma company, enticing high-end rewards for its sales reps. Interestingly enough, there were considerations of selling OxyContin over-the-counter in Germany, reflecting Sackler's unwavering focus on maximising sales.
The Price of Success
However, OxyContin's meteoric rise was not without its pitfalls. Concerns related to the drug's abuse potential began to creep up, leading to skepticism among doctors about the need for increasing doses. While employees reveled in the feeling of being on top of the world, there came a cruel twist—the realization of OxyContin's devastating consequences, including fatal overdoses.
Exposing OxyContin's Dark Side
Unraveling the OxyContin Scandal
Barry Meier, an investigative journalist, stumbled upon a striking piece of information in 2001: The prescription drug OxyContin, designed as a timed-release pain reliever, was being crushed by users for an instant, potent, and dangerously addictive high. Produced by Purdue Pharma, this drug was not only misrepresented for its potential of abuse but also aggressively publicized, leading to an upsurge of addiction and overdoses and a thriving black market trade.
The Buck Stops Where?
Despite the rising wave of OxyContin abuse, Purdue Pharma managed to deflect their accountability strategically. Targeting the spotlight on the users, they labeled them as 'reckless criminals.' The company maintained their stance vehemently, disregarding the facts uncovered by Meier, data from law enforcement, and testimony from doctors and pharmacists about the escalating addiction problem.
Ignoring the Telltale Signs
While the drug was generating havoc and legitimate pain patients were becoming collateral damage in the escalating addiction disaster, Purdue Pharma remained unaffected. Evidences of geographic hotspots of OxyContin abuse brought into light by sales representatives remained ignored. Instead, the company chose to downplay internal documents and testimonies suggesting their implicit knowledge of this growing public health crisis.
Purdue Pharma's Controversial Crisis Management
Denial Amid Rising Opioid Crisis
The escalating scrutiny over OxyContin introduced Purdue Pharma to a daunting confrontation. At a U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee hearing, Purdue executives, including Michael Friedman and Howard Udell, emphatically denied the company's culpability. Instead, they blamed law enforcement agencies and criminal substance abusers for the escalating crisis.
Defensive Tactics and Image Protection
Purdue Pharma went to extreme lengths to protect its image. Using a blend of high-profile lawyers and consultants, threats, and attempts to discredit investigative journalists, Purdue implemented a series of aggressive tactics. They were also active in funding advocacy groups that championed the use of opioids, furthering their deflection strategy.
Manipulating Narrative and Casting Blame
Purdue was no stranger to using its power to control the narrative. A notable example of their aggressive strategy was the removal of journalist Barry Meier from OxyContin coverage. Their ultimate goal - to neutralize any critical reporting that could tarnish their image and shift the blame towards the victims of the OxyContin crisis.
Uncovering the OxyContin Crisis
The Hunt Begins
There's this audacious prosecutor, John Brownlee - he starts digging into Purdue Pharma, inspecting their role in the OxyContin crisis. This all comes about when he charges a local, Cecil Knox, who's been illegally dishing out OxyContin. He and his team soon unravel that Purdue's been pulling a fast one, falsely peddling OxyContin and teaching their sales reps to fib about the drug's riskiness.
Justice Served...Or Is It?
The walls start closing in on Purdue - they finally plead guilty to felony misbranding, coughing up to $600 million as a fine. But here's the kicker, the heavy hitters at Purdue - think Michael Friedman and Howard Udell - they only plead guilty to misdemeanors. And what do they get? They get off fairly lightly. Despite the guilty plea and fine, it seems like a minor hiccup for Purdue and the Sacklers who navigate the storm relatively unscathed.
Hardly A Dent Made
Business continues as usual for Purdue Pharma, selling OxyContin, and beefing up their sales force. The Sacklers keep instigating deniability, distancing themselves from the crisis. And that sizable fine? It barely makes a dent in Purdue Pharma's coffers. The attempts to make Purdue culpable appear to be ineffective in inciting any significant changes.
Entwining Opulence and Controversy: The Sackler’s Tale
Amanyara: The Rich and the Famous
Amist the vast stretches of crystal blue waters and serene beaches of the little British overseas territory – the Turks and Caicos, nestles the glamorous resort, Amanyara. An epitome of seclusion and beauty established in 2007, Amanyara has been a haven for the wealthy, luring prominent personalities like Brad Pitt and David Beckham.
Behind the Amanyara Walls: The Sackler Residence
One such affluent denizen of Amanyara was Mortimer Sackler Jr., son of Mortimer Sackler. With his upbringing shaped in Manhattan and amidst elite educational institutions, he led a life of grandeur. His residence here further evinced the Sackler's opulent lifestyle, marked by indulgence in numerous high-end properties and an army of staff members.
Sacklers and Purdue: A Double-edged Sword
While sequestered in Turks and Caicos, the golden goose for the Sacklers was OxyContin sales, which kept maintaining the flow of their extravagant lifestyle. On the other hand, the marketing strategies by Purdue, a company owned by the Sacklers, were intense, with an absolute disregard for signs of malpractices and misuse. Fueled by their own financial interests, the Sacklers' tale highlights a trail of negligence towards the wellbeing of the patients.
Unlocking OxyContin's New Formula
A Bold Step in Drug Reformulation
In 2010, Purdue Pharma introduced a new version of OxyContin that was tamperproof. These pills, branded 'OP' rather than the previous 'OC', had an innovative coating designed to prevent them from being crushed or dissolved, thereby curtailing the potential for misuse through snorting or injecting.
Pioneering Efforts on Safety
It was Purdue's concentrated research and creativity that gave birth to these tamperproof pills. The main thrust behind this initiative was to shield OxyContin from misuse and to upstage competitors.
Unforeseen Outcomes Emerged
Interestingly, Purdue's reformulation unintentionally led to an increase in heroin use. The tamperproof nature of the new pills made OxyContin harder for addicts to misuse, driving them towards the readily available and potent alternative - heroin.
Shifts and Strategies in the Sackler Empire
Exploring Madeleine Sackler's Filmmaking Path
Madeleine Sackler, defying family tradition, embarked on a filmmaking career, creating acclaimed documentaries. Her compelling films, 'The Lottery' and 'O.G.', delved into riveting subjects like education reform and prison life, commanding attention and recognition on the film festival circuit.
David Sackler's Role in the Family Business
David Sackler, Richard Sackler's son, steered a different course - aligning with the family enterprise. Taking his seat on Purdue Pharma's board, he filled his father's shoes to manage a company at the heart of the opioid crisis. David's forceful character and shrewd business acumen became a significant factor in guiding the formidable family fortune.
Sackler Family's Global Expansion Initiative
Shifting their focus globally, Purdue and Mundipharma, under the Sackler banner, aggressively targeted emerging markets like China. Adopting assertive marketing strategies coupled with hefty incentives for sales representatives, Mundipharma sought to boost opioid use abroad. Their controversial tactics reportedly included misleading claims about opioid safety and efficacy, and even impersonating doctors for patient consultations.
Unmasking Purdue Pharma's Deceptive Marketing
Purdue Pharma's Damaging Demographic Study
Purdue Pharma, the pharmaceutical titan behind OxyContin, was embroiled in a lawsuit back in 2015. The State of Kentucky accused Purdue of deceptive marketing tactics. The most damning evidence? Purdue’s own demographic study, which found out a staggering 29% of the residents in Pike County had personally known someone who met their untimely demise due to OxyContin use. Worse still, 70% of the citizens described the drug's impact as 'devastating'. It was an alarming revelation, to say the least.
Richard Sackler's First-ever Deposition
Richard Sackler, the former president and chairman of Purdue, was put in an uncomfortable spotlight. He was subpoenaed for a deposition, marking the first time he was forced to justify his actions in such a setting. Despite residing in Austin, Texas, Richard continued to have a grasp over the company’s operations. He was notably eager to convince the Mortimer clan to inject more funds into the beleaguered organization.
The Case's Heavy Settlement
The lawsuit ended not with a bang, but a settlement. Costing Purdue a hefty amount of $24 million, the proceedings concluded behind closed doors. The evidence, mired with damning insights, was sealed off from the rest of the world. It was a significant end to a revealing case of misdirected pharmaceutical power.
Nan Goldin's Fight Against OxyContin
Painful Addiction: Nan Goldin's Experience
Esteemed American photographer, Nan Goldin, found herself entangled in the snares of OxyContin addiction for three years. Initially prescribed to manage tendinitis pain, she found herself increasingly isolated, consumed by her dependence on this potent prescription painkiller.
Goldin Rising: Activism and Advocacy
In 2017, determined to regain control of her life, Goldin sought rehab to fight off her addiction. Embracing sobriety, the acclaimed photographer made a resolution to challenge the opioid crisis. She established the PAIN (Prescription Addiction Intervention Now) campaign in 2018, boldly accusing the Sackler family, the owners of Purdue Pharma, of their complicity in the opioid epidemic.
Standing Ground: Goldin's Protest
Goldin's fervent advocacy led to an impactful protest at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. By casting orange pill bottles symbolizing OxyContin into the museum's reflecting pool, she amplified her demand for cultural institutions to reject Sackler donations. Her aim was to bring the Sackler family's controversial marketing practices under public scrutiny, and compel them to finance addiction treatments.
The Unraveling: The Public's Response
The Sackler family found themselves at the center of public condemnation, as Goldin's protest sparked increased call for their accountability. Despite the backlash, many cultural organizations still hesitate to dismiss Sackler contributions. Nan Goldin's protest, nevertheless, symbolizes a burgeoning awareness and activism against the opioid crisis and those profiting from these addictive substances.
The Hidden Truth of the Opioid Crisis
Opioid Production in Tasmania
The considerable island of Tasmania houses the Tasmanian Alkaloids facility – a powerhouse in the production of thebaine. The facility, pioneering in its field, genetically engineers opium poppies to yield a high proportion of thebaine, a pivotal ingredient for oxycodone. Its far reaching influence is evident with Tasmania providing a striking 85% of the world's thebaine.
The Golden Era of Poppies
As the world's appetite for opioids grew, so did the need for more poppies. This meant the Tasmanian Alkaloids facility had to persuade farmers to leave behind their traditional crops and embrace poppy farming. The promise of lavish rewards and incentive programs unwaveringly convinced farmers to take the leap, thereby greatly increasing poppy cultivation.
The Skyrocketing Opioid Demand
Such a profound shift in farming practices was not without consequences. The Drug Enforcement Administration, bending to the pressure exerted by the burgeoning opioid industry, pronounced a significant increase in the amount of opioids legally admissible into the US. This marked a turning point that would lead to the widespread distribution, and inevitable abuse, of opioids.
Navigating the Purdue Pharma Scandal
Escaping the Sackler Shadow
Joss Sackler, caught under the scandal spotlight for her connections to the infamous Sackler family, tried to walk an independent path by launching her own fashion brand, LBV. Nevertheless, her lineage haunted her endeavors, as media relentlessly focused on her Sackler connections, effectively stealing the limelight from her pursuits.
Unveiling Deceptive Practices
Maura Healey, Massachusetts Attorney General, propelled unsettling secrets into the public domain by suing Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family. Her lawsuit unearthed damning communications and evidence, pointing a damning finger at the Sacklers for exploitative marketing tactics around opioids and amassing profits from the resulting crisis. Despite the Sacklers' vigorous attempts to have the case dismissed and their incriminating evidence sealed, they did not succeed.
The Sackler's Tumbling Social Status
The Sackler clan was catapulted to the centre of public odium and stigmatized, leading to several establishments severing their ties. Adding fuel to the raging fire, popular late-night hosts Stephen Colbert and John Oliver staged dramatic recreations of Richard Sackler's incriminatory deposition and correspondences, amplifying the family's ill reputation further.
Facing the Legal Warfare: Sacklers' Struggle
The Sackler Family Standoff
In the midst of a legal battle, David Sackler stood up for his family, proclaiming their innocence and underscoring their wish to reveal their narrative. However, his arguments were pierced by journalist Bethany McLean who pointed out the inconsistencies and flaws in his statements.
Sacklers' Proposal and Backlash
The Sacklers put forth a settlement proposition, suggesting conversion of Purdue into a public trust funded by a sizable donation to address opioid crisis. Notably, a majority of state attorneys rejected it, perceiving it as an insult and inadequacy rather than a bona fide solution.
Bankruptcy Threats and Outcomes
Threats to declare bankruptcy emerged if states declined their offer. However, a public outcry led by Courtney Love scorned the Sacklers. Eventually Purdue Pharma sought bankruptcy protection, claiming the family's implication unavoidable in any legal pursuits against the company.
State Attorneys’ Stand and Court Decision
Democratic attorneys still weren’t convinced about the bankruptcy filing with a suspicion of Sacklers maneuvering to escape individual liability. Despite the resistance, Judge Robert Drain approved a temporary stay for the Sacklers, securing them a temporary relief.
Unmasking Purdue Pharma and the Opioid Crisis
An Unfortunate Epidemic
It's shocking to learn how opioids have greatly contributed to the worst drug overdose predicament in US history since the mid-1990s. Tellingly, Purdue Pharma, the makers of OxyContin, played a significant role in this crisis.
The Role of 'triplicate' Programs
Purdue Pharma pinpointed 'triplicate' programs in certain states as an obstruction to OxyContin prescriptions. They smartly limited their marketing efforts in these states, avoiding a heavy distribution of OxyContin and consequently, a slower pace of overdose deaths.
The Sacklers and the Rising Legal Storm
The Sackler family, owners of Purdue Pharma, continue to find themselves in hot water. Despite their protests to the contrary, internal emails sway in the direction of a possible knowledge of incoming lawsuits. The Department of Justice, while settling with them, faced backlash for being too lenient.
From Museums to Congress
Public feelings against the Sacklers stirred to the point of institutions like the Louvre and NUY Medical School mulling over the removal of the Sackler name. Unsurprisingly, the Sacklers refused to testify before Congress, slowing down progress for those deeply affected by the crisis and seeking justice.
The Peculiar Public-Benefit Proposal
In a move both confusing and ironic, the Sacklers have proposed to convert Purdue Pharma into a public-benefit corporation. The family, rich and largely untarnished in their reputation despite the legal quandaries, continue to navigate the storm they've partially created.
The Pioneer and Controversy: Arthur Sackler
The Man Behind the Medicines
In the realm of pharmaceuticals, Arthur Sackler was a legend. A successful advertising whizz and an enthusiastic collector of Chinese art, his quest for fortune led him to popularize drugs like Librium and Valium. But it was medicine, not art or advertising, that invoked Sackler's true ardor. His aspiration was to conflate medical research with the pharmaceutical industry, revolutionizing how drugs were viewed, marketed, and studied.
A Philanthropist with Strategic Intentions
Sackler was not only a business tycoon but also a patron in the field of medicine. He gathered Chinese artifacts in large numbers for the Princeton University Art Museum, while using his connections and influence to reshape the medical field. His revolutionary approach to pharmaceutical marketing and thorough understanding of the field made him an outstanding figure within the industry.
A Reserved Maverick
Despite his success and creative disruptions, Sackler kept his personal life private. His influence and stature grew exponentially, however, making him a powerful figure in the medical and pharmaceutical world. These real-world achievements show Arthur Sackler as more than just a wealthy advertising executive. They reveal him as a pathbreaking torchbearer in the world of medicine and pharmaceutical marketing, who changed the face of the industry while ensuring his legacy was securely etched in the annals of medical history.
Intricacies of Opioid Lawsuits
Journey of Debevoise & Plimpton
Debevoise & Plimpton, blossoming out of New York City, is an international law entity that has shaped into a ubiquitous titan. With 800 legal experts, this firm brings in an annual revenue nearing a staggering $1 billion.
A Stalwart Legal Gladiator: Mary Jo White
Associated with Debevoise, we come across Mary Jo White, a daunting litigator, who has previously held the office of U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York. She is typically seen defending Kathe Sackler, a recluse yet billionaire client who has her name tied to numerous lawsuits.
The Sackler's Opioid Empire
Kathe is a part of the affluent Sackler family who garnered their wealth through Purdue Pharma, their pharmaceutical undertaking. Purdue Pharma gave the world the revolutionary opioid analgesic, OxyContin, which had a significant hand in the rampant opioid addiction and abuse crisis in the US.
Denial Amidst the Opioid Crisis
During her deposition, Sackler staunchly backed OxyContin and vehemently denied playing any part in the opioid epidemic that has swept across the nation.
Unveiling the Sacklers' Opioid Saga
Missing Cooperation From The Sacklers
In 'Empire of Pain,' the notorious Sackler family, heads behind the opioid crisis, presented significant obstacles for Radden Keefe. Despite his attempts at communication and scheduling interviews, the Sacklers persistently rebuffed him, even challenging the integrity of his past work. Their reluctance extended to betraying the fact-checking protocol, further complicating Keefe's research.
Legal Documents Unmasked the Crisis
Notwithstanding the Sacklers' belligerence, Keefe was undeterred in his pursuit of the truth. He effectively utilized a plethora of court documents, depositions, and other confidential materials generated amid litigations surrounding Purdue and the Sacklers. These instrumental pieces formed the foundational evidence and insight into their central role in fostering the opioid crisis.
Unearthing Unwholesome Practices
Keefe's comprehensive fact-checking adventure did not stop here. He interviewed countless ex-workers and acquaintances of the Sacklers. They provided the much-needed additional perspective and insights into the elusive family's operations. With his effort to uncover Purdue's ties to the FDA, he established how Purdue used the approval of OxyContin to fend off accusations.
Unraveling Deceptive Truths
The book also debunked several of the Sacklers' claims, firmly opposing their statements with internal company communications. It highlighted rampant misuses of OxyContin, conflicting with their assertions of a 12-hour effective dosing cycle. Keefe offered his analysis of court evidences which often contradicted the defenses from Purdue and the Sacklers, painting a vivid picture of their role in the opioid crisis.
Exploring an Empire of Influence
Journey Through the Corridors of Power
Embark on a historical odyssey through 'Empire of Pain' by Patrick Radden Keefe. The book, segmented into three sections titled 'Prologue: The Taproot', 'Book I: Patriarch', 'Book II: Dynasty', and 'Book III: Legacy', unfolds the intriguing saga of a potent empire. It smoothly intertwines the individual narratives and collective achievements of an influential family or empire, perhaps linked to the pharmaceutical world, thereby providing a captivating roller-coaster tour for the readers.
Voices from the Past
Summarys like 'The Octopus' or 'Apollo' may signify the outreach and supremacy of key figures within this empire, while Summarys like 'Turks' might trace links or associations with certain cohorts or regions. This exploration, spanning across different timeframes, seamlessly blends personal anecdotes, historical dissection, and investigative journalism to yield a rich and riveting narrative.
A Stinging Legacy
With the title 'Empire of Pain', the book insinuates the possible downside or adverse effects of this empire's dominance. Delving into issues of addiction, healthcare, and ethics, it is set to offer a balanced view of power, influence, and legacy, providing you necessary insights to unlock the intricate dynamics of power.