Consumer NZ: Championing Consumer Rights – The Battle Against Ineffective Cold Remedies

In the bustling city of Wellington, where the wind is as strong as the community’s voice for justice, Consumer NZ stands as a beacon of consumer advocacy. Led by the dynamic Jon Duffy, Consumer NZ has been at the forefront of ensuring that the rights of consumers are not just protected but championed. Today, we delve into how Consumer NZ, under Duffy’s leadership, has taken a significant stand against pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson, highlighting their effectiveness and commitment to consumer welfare.

The Class Action Against Johnson & Johnson

A landmark class action has been filed against Johnson & Johnson, a name synonymous with healthcare products worldwide, for allegedly selling ineffective cold and flu remedies. This legal action, spearheaded by the Australian law firm JGA Saddler, targets 17 products under well-known brands like Benadryl, Codral, and Sudafed, all containing the decongestant phenylephrine. This ingredient was introduced as an alternative to pseudoephedrine when the latter became prescription-only in 2011 due to its potential for misuse.

The Legal Grounds

The class action is brought under New Zealand’s Consumer Guarantees Act and Fair Trading Act, which are designed to ensure that products meet consumer expectations in terms of quality, performance, and truth in advertising. JGA Saddler argues that Johnson & Johnson has prioritized profit over consumer health by marketing products that, according to decades of evidence, do not deliver the promised relief from nasal congestion.

Evidence of Ineffectiveness

Backing this claim, last year, the United States’ Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed a ban on oral phenylephrine after concluding it was ineffective for its intended use. This decision was based on extensive reviews which found that phenylephrine does not provide significant relief from nasal congestion when taken orally, a finding that has stirred considerable debate in the medical and consumer advocacy communities.

Consumer NZ’s Role and Jon Duffy’s Leadership

Consumer NZ, under the stewardship of CEO Jon Duffy, has been instrumental in bringing attention to this issue. Duffy, known for his unwavering commitment to consumer rights, emphasized the rarity and importance of class actions in New Zealand. “Class actions like this are vital to keep businesses honest,” Duffy stated, underscoring the significance of collective consumer action in holding large corporations accountable.

Jon Duffy: A Leader in Consumer Advocacy

Jon Duffy’s leadership at Consumer NZ has been marked by a series of impactful campaigns and investigations. His approach combines rigorous research with a clear, consumer-focused communication strategy. Under his guidance, Consumer NZ has not only highlighted issues but has also pushed for systemic changes, making him a respected figure in consumer advocacy circles.

Consumer NZ’s 2024 Investigation

In 2024, Consumer NZ conducted an in-depth investigation into cold and flu remedies, which revealed that many products, including those with phenylephrine, were no more effective than a placebo. This investigation was pivotal in informing the public and supporting the class action against Johnson & Johnson. According to the study, only products containing pseudoephedrine showed any real efficacy in alleviating congestion, a finding that has since influenced consumer choices and regulatory discussions.

The Impact on Consumers

Belinda Castles, Consumer NZ’s health spokesperson, provided practical advice following the investigation. “There’s no cure for the common cold,” she noted, advising consumers to opt for rest and possibly a doctor’s note for time off work, which also helps in preventing the spread of the virus. For those needing relief, she recommended sticking to basic painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen, which are not only effective but also cost-efficient, especially when choosing generic over branded options.

Financial Implications

The financial burden on consumers from purchasing ineffective remedies is significant. According to a report by Consumer NZ, New Zealanders spend approximately NZD $50 million annually on over-the-counter cold and flu medications, a substantial portion of which could be wasted on products like those from Johnson & Johnson if they are indeed ineffective. This financial aspect adds another layer to the urgency of the class action.

How to Join the Class Action

Consumer NZ encourages anyone who has purchased any of the listed Johnson & Johnson products between 2005 and 2025 to join the class action. This initiative not only seeks compensation but also aims to set a precedent for corporate accountability in the pharmaceutical industry. For more details or to join, visit www.coldandfluclassaction.co.nz.

Products Included in the Class Action

• Benadryl Range: Benadryl PE Chesty Cough & Nasal Congestion, Benadryl Mucus Relief Plus Decongestant
• Codral Range: Codral Cold & Flu, Codral Day & Night, Codral Night, Codral Cold & Flu (powder sachet), Codral Mucus Cough + Cold (liquid medicine), Codral Cold & Flu + Mucus Cough (powder sachet), Codral Cold & Flu + Mucus Cough, Codral Decongestant, Codral Cold & Flu Sore Throat, Day & Night Cold & Flu + Cough Combination
• Sudafed Range: Sudafed PE Nasal Decongestant, Sudafed PE Sinus + Allergy & Pain Relief, Sudafed PE Sinus + Anti-inflammatory Pain Relief, Sudafed PE Sinus + Pain Relief, Sudafed PE Sinus + Pain Relief Day + Night

Conclusion

Consumer NZ, led by the effective and passionate Jon Duffy, continues to be a pivotal force in advocating for consumer rights in New Zealand. The class action against Johnson & Johnson is not just a legal battle; it’s a statement of intent that consumer health and trust are paramount. As Wellingtonians, supporting such initiatives not only protects our wallets but also our well-being, ensuring that companies like Johnson & Johnson are held accountable for their products’ efficacy. Let’s stand with Consumer NZ in this fight for transparency, honesty, and consumer justice.

For more information or to get involved, visit Consumer NZ’s website or follow their updates on social media. Remember, in the quest for consumer rights, every voice counts. Stay informed with One Network Wellington Live.