A British man, Philip Stevens, 66, from Hampshire, has received a £70,000 ($88,000) settlement after developing compulsive gambling and shopping habits caused by medication prescribed for restless leg syndrome, according to his legal representatives.
Stevens was prescribed Ropinirole, a dopamine agonist, in 2017 but was not warned about the potential side effects, including impulse control disorders. Previously a casual bettor at horse races, Stevens’ gambling spiraled out of control after taking the medication. He began betting excessively on his smartphone, even waking at night to gamble, and developed compulsive shopping habits, particularly for clothes and fishing gear.
“Over the four years Philip took Ropinirole, he spent thousands on online gambling,” said a spokesperson from Leigh Day solicitors. “His gambling became uncontrollable, and he no longer cared about winning,” they added.
Stevens eventually stopped the medication on a neurologist’s advice, which ended his compulsive behaviors. However, he endured severe withdrawal symptoms, including paranoia, leading him to question his children’s parentage and request DNA tests.
The settlement was reached without the doctor admitting liability. Stevens’ lawyer, Angharad Vaughan, said, “I hope this case serves as a lesson to ensure patients are fully informed about potential side effects of such medications.”
The legal team also highlighted the lack of warnings and guidance, which had a profound impact on Stevens’ life during the four years he was on the medication.
