RELIEF EFFORTS

Explainer: How will the Supreme Court reshape US opioid epidemic relief?

The US Supreme Court is set to hear arguments on the legality of a USD 6 billion bankruptcy settlement involving Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin. The settlement could provide billions of dollars for addiction treatment and relief efforts. It would also protect the Sackler family owners from lawsuits. Purdue introduced OxyContin in 1996, contributing to the opioid epidemic. The settlement would transform Purdue into a nonprofit and dedicate its assets to addressing the harms of opioid addiction.