The Sackler family name, once synonymous with generous philanthropy, is now largely associated with the opioid crisis. Their story is a complex one, charting a course from medical publishing to pharmaceutical empire, ultimately leading to widespread controversy.
Arthur, Mortimer, and Raymond Sackler, all physicians, acquired Purdue Frederick in 1952. It was under their descendants' management that Purdue Pharma developed and aggressively marketed OxyContin, a powerful opioid painkiller. Despite growing evidence of its addictive nature, the company allegedly downplayed the risks, contributing significantly to the opioid epidemic in the United States.
The ensuing legal battles revealed a stark contrast between the family's public image and their alleged role in fueling the crisis. Lawsuits and settlements have forced Purdue Pharma into bankruptcy and severely damaged the Sackler family's reputation. While some family members maintain they acted responsibly, the legacy of OxyContin and the opioid crisis continue to cast a long shadow over the Sackler name, prompting a re-evaluation of their philanthropic contributions and a wider debate about corporate accountability.
