The Sackler Family: Wealth, Power, and the Opioid Crisis
The Sackler family, once celebrated for their philanthropic contributions to art, education, and medicine, has become synonymous with the opioid epidemic in the United States. Their company, Purdue Pharma, introduced OxyContin in 1996, a prescription painkiller that became widely prescribed and, over time, heavily abused. This article delves into the Sackler family's journey—from their rise to prominence through Purdue Pharma to their current status amid legal battles and public scrutiny.
The Rise of Purdue Pharma and the Opioid Epidemic
Purdue Pharma was founded in 1892 by John Purdue Gray and George Frederick Bingham. However, it was the Sackler brothers—Arthur, Mortimer, and Raymond—who transformed the company into a pharmaceutical powerhouse. In 1952, Arthur Sackler, a trained physician, acquired a controlling interest in Purdue Frederick Company, the precursor to Purdue Pharma. His innovative marketing strategies, including direct-to-physician advertising, revolutionized pharmaceutical promotion.
In 1996, Purdue Pharma introduced OxyContin, a time-released formulation of oxycodone. Initially hailed as a breakthrough in pain management, OxyContin was marketed as having a low potential for abuse. However, the drug's addictive properties became evident over time, leading to widespread misuse and contributing significantly to the opioid crisis.
The Sackler Family's Wealth and Influence
Despite the controversies surrounding OxyContin, the Sackler family amassed significant wealth. As of 2024, their collective net worth was estimated at over $10.8 billion. This fortune was primarily derived from their ownership of Purdue Pharma and its international counterpart, Mundipharma.
Mundipharma operates in various countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia, and has been involved in the production and distribution of opioid medications. From 2020 to 2022, nine Mundipharma companies in Europe and Australia reported profits of $531 million on sales and distribution of pharmaceutical and other products (Washington Post).
The Sacklers also maintained a significant presence in the art world, with numerous institutions bearing their name due to substantial donations. These included the Guggenheim Museum in New York, the Louvre in Paris, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. However, following public outcry over their role in the opioid crisis, many institutions have removed the Sackler name from their buildings and ceased accepting donations from the family (Wikipedia).
Legal Challenges and the Purdue Pharma Bankruptcy
In 2019, Purdue Pharma filed for bankruptcy amid thousands of lawsuits alleging that the company played a central role in the opioid epidemic. The legal battles highlighted the Sackler family's involvement in the company's operations and marketing strategies.
In a significant development in 2025, the Sackler family agreed to a $7.4 billion settlement to resolve lawsuits related to Purdue Pharma's role in the opioid crisis. The settlement comprises $6.5 billion from the Sacklers and approximately $900 million from Purdue Pharma. The funds are intended to support addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery programs across the United States (Barron’s).
The Sacklers' Continued Wealth and Influence
Despite the settlement, the Sackler family remains financially robust. Their ownership stake in Mundipharma continues to generate substantial income. Additionally, the family's investments in various sectors, including real estate and international ventures, contribute to their ongoing wealth.
For instance, the Sacklers have been involved in the sale of businesses for a combined $747 million, further consolidating their financial standing (Finance Uncovered). Moreover, their real estate holdings include luxury properties in the United States and abroad, underscoring their continued affluence (Realtor).
Public Perception and Ethical Considerations
The Sackler family's involvement in the opioid crisis has led to widespread public criticism. Activists and advocacy groups have highlighted the ethical implications of their actions, questioning the morality of profiting from a product that has caused significant harm to individuals and communities.
In response to the controversy, many cultural institutions have distanced themselves from the Sacklers. Over 20 institutions, including the Louvre and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, have removed the Sackler name from their buildings and ceased accepting donations from the family (Wikipedia).
The Sackler family's journey from pharmaceutical pioneers to public pariahs underscores the complex interplay between wealth, influence, and accountability. While they have faced legal repercussions and public backlash, their continued financial success raises questions about the effectiveness of legal settlements in addressing corporate malfeasance.
As the opioid crisis continues to affect communities across the United States, the Sackler family's story serves as a poignant reminder of the need for greater corporate responsibility and transparency in the pharmaceutical industry.
Recent Developments
June 2025: The Sackler family agreed to a $7.4 billion settlement to resolve lawsuits related to Purdue Pharma's role in the opioid crisis (Attorney General NY).
July 2025: The Louvre Museum removed the Sackler name from its walls amid protests over the family's ties to the opioid epidemic (Time).
September 2025: Purdue Pharma received court approval for its bankruptcy reorganization plan, which includes provisions for opioid abatement programs (Purdue Pharma).
