Sanofi-Aventis Permitted to Inspect Decedent’s Electronic Devices in Ambien CR Suicide Action

LAS VEGAS — A Nevada federal magistrate judge has granted Sanofi-Aventis’ motion to compel inspection of a decedent’s electronic devices in an Ambien CR suicide action, ruling that the discovery is relevant and proportional to the needs of the case.

In a March 3 order, Magistrate Judge Nancy J. Koppe of the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada agreed with Sanofi that the discovery could help determine whether personal, professional or financial factors could have played a part in the suicide.

On March 8, 2010, Andrew Kwasniewski, 56, took Ambien for sleeplessness. That same night, he committed suicide.