Plaintiffs Seek Centralized Management of N.J. State Taxotere Hair Loss Cases

TRENTON, N.J. — Thousands of women who allege Sanofi-Aventis’ breast cancer drug Taxotere causes permanent hair loss have asked for multi-county designation of their New Jersey state actions, arguing that centralized management will conserve judicial resources.

In a March 13 letter, the plaintiffs asked that designation of the MCL be assigned to Judge James F. Hyland of the Middlesex County Superior Court, where 333 of the approximately 353 cases are pending.

“Given the large number of parties, witnesses and counsel, the cases would benefit from centralized management,” the letter says. “Centralized management will also minimize duplicative practice and inconsistent discovery …