The Sacklers: A Family's Dark Legacy in the Opioid Crisis

The Sacklers: A History of Wealth and Influence

The Sackler family is one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the United States. Their fortune stems from the success of Purdue Pharma, the company that manufactures OxyContin, a highly addictive opioid painkiller.

The Sacklers have used their wealth to fund a variety of philanthropic endeavors, including medical research, education, and the arts. They have also been generous donors to political campaigns, both Republican and Democratic.

The Sacklers and the Opioid Crisis

Purdue Pharma's aggressive marketing of OxyContin is widely seen as a major contributing factor to the opioid crisis that has ravaged the United States in recent years.

The Sacklers have been accused of knowing about the addictive risks of OxyContin and of profiting from the suffering of millions of Americans.

The Sacklers' Legal Troubles

The Sacklers are facing a number of lawsuits from states, cities, and individuals who have been harmed by OxyContin.

In 2021, Purdue Pharma filed for bankruptcy, and the Sacklers agreed to pay $750 million to settle some of the lawsuits against them.

The Sacklers' Legacy

The Sacklers' legacy is likely to be tarnished by their role in the opioid crisis.

Their wealth and influence have not been able to protect them from the consequences of their actions.

Conclusion

The Sackler family is a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the importance of holding corporations accountable for their actions.