While both paraquat and glyphosate are commercially available herbicides that have caused controversy, they are not the same substance.
Glyphosate is the main ingredient in Roundup, whereas paraquat is sold under dozens of brand names, such as Gramoxone.
The confusion is however understandable, as both products are widely used weed killers in agricultural practices that have been associated with debilitating health conditions that impact the quality of life.
Paraquat has been linked with the early onset and development of Parkinson's disease, while glyphosate has been linked to cases of cancer, specifically non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which affects the immune system. There are other herbicides on the market containing glyphosate, but Roundup is by far the most popular. Roundup is the brand name targeted by most lawsuits concerning glyphosate.
While it is true that paraquat is more dangerous than glyphosate, being 28 times more toxic, both chemical compounds are used to eliminate unwanted vegetation. Because of this, paraquat is banned in over 30 countries. Still, it has not been banned in the U.S. yet, but it is restricted to commercial use only.
Knowing the implications of using either paraquat or glyphosate in inhabited areas, at times even being utilized together, such practices become increasingly problematic. Paraquat should never be used around the following:
An important distinction between the two is the fact that claims filed with the manufacturers of Roundup have concluded with more than $11 billion being paid out to individuals that have suffered from cancer-like symptoms compatible with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma as a result of exposure to glyphosate. Similar claims are currently pending where paraquat exposure is concerned.
The fact that individuals are seeking reparatory compensation from manufacturers of both paraquat and glyphosate is encouraging. A diagnosis of either disease as a result of exposure to the respective harmful chemical is usually the first step towards achieving a modicum of relief for the pain and the struggle they are experiencing.
Ataxia Law has successfully represented the interests of its clients in claims of personal injury, toxic exposure, and product liability for the better part of the last 35 years. We aim to make your involvement in the process as minimal as possible. Once we are provided with timely evidence of a diagnosis and demonstrable proof of exposure to paraquat herbicide, we can fully evaluate your claim and let you know about its eligibility for compensation.