Mergers between pharmaceutical companies are common, but with such a volatile product to sell, they’re often complex and messy transactions.  Product liability verdicts for drugs or medical devices can be massive, especially in states that haven’t caved in to medical malpractice caps.

When New Jersey drug giant Wyeth purchased American Cyanamid in 1994, they also take responsibility for American Cyanamid’s products as a subsidiary. This includes a recent jury award granting $8.5 million to a man who contracted polio after receiving a polio vaccine manufactured by American Cyanamid, a vaccine that was discontinued in 2000.

With its ocean of cash and top lawyers on retainer, Wyeth is in a better position that American Cyanamid was to fight the jury verdict, which is just what they’re doing.  Though an FDA official testified in the previous trial that American Cyanamid did not perform sufficient tests on early vaccine samples, the FDA has now apparently reversed its position, saying that they were mistaken on what tests were required.

And now, a paralyzed Missouri man may face losing money for his medical care.  Check back in the future for updates on this fascinating defective drugs court case.