A class action suit has been launched against 28 pharmaceutical companies who produce opioids.
It comes on the heels of a study that found opioids to be no more effective than over-the-counter medication in treating chronic pain.
A statement of claim filed in Ontario Superior Court alleges the drug companies knew this and the risk of addiction but promote their products anyway.
The suit seeks $1.1 billion in damages.
None of the allegations have yet been proven in court.
