Talcum powder litigation has dominated product liability headlines for nearly a decade, with Johnson & Johnson (J&J) at the center of tens of thousands of lawsuits alleging that its talc-based products caused ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. While Gold Bond, manufactured by Sanofi and formerly by Chattem Inc., has also faced scrutiny, the scale and legal outcomes of the two companies differ significantly.
This article compares the legal exposure, settlement history, and litigation strategies of Johnson & Johnson and Gold Bond in talcum powder lawsuits—especially those affecting California plaintiffs.
Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder Lawsuits
Scope of Litigation
- Over 63,000 lawsuits consolidated in federal multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2738)
- Allegations include asbestos contamination and failure to warn consumers
- Products named: Johnson’s® Baby Powder, Shower to Shower®
Major Settlements and Verdicts
- $417 million verdict in Los Angeles (2017) for ovarian cancer (later overturned)
- $26.5 million verdict in San Jose (2023) for mesothelioma
- $8.9 billion proposed bankruptcy settlement (2023–2025), rejected by courts2
- $700 million multistate deceptive marketing settlement finalized in 2024
Litigation Strategy
- Attempted three bankruptcy filings to resolve claims through subsidiary entities
- Courts rejected these efforts, allowing litigation to proceed
- Bellwether trials continue in federal court, with juries awarding millions in damages
Gold Bond Talcum Powder Lawsuits
Scope of Litigation
- Fewer than 1,000 lawsuits filed nationwide
- Allegations focus on asbestos contamination and failure to warn
- Product named: Gold Bond® Medicated Powder (talc-based version)
Legal Outcomes
- No publicly reported multimillion-dollar verdicts against Gold Bond as of July 2025
- Several cases settled confidentially before trial
- Gold Bond’s manufacturer, Sanofi, has not pursued bankruptcy or mass settlement strategies
Litigation Strategy
- Quiet resolution of claims through private settlements
- No consolidated MDL or class action involving Gold Bond
- Lower public profile and fewer regulatory investigations compared to J&J
Comparative Table: J&J vs. Gold Bond Talc Lawsuits
| Category | Johnson & Johnson | Gold Bond (Sanofi) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Lawsuits Filed | 63,000+ | <1,000 |
| MDL Participation | Yes (MDL No. 2738) | No |
| Bankruptcy Attempts | 3 (all rejected) | None |
| Largest Verdict | $417 million (Los Angeles, 2017) | None reported |
| Multistate Settlement | $700 million (2024) | None |
| Public Trials | Dozens, with multiple verdicts | Very few |
| Products Named | Baby Powder, Shower to Shower® | Gold Bond® Medicated Powder |
| Alleged Illnesses | Ovarian cancer, mesothelioma | Mesothelioma (primarily) |
| California Cases | Thousands | Fewer than 100 (estimated) |
What California Victims Should Know
If You Used Johnson & Johnson Talc Products
- You may be eligible to join the federal MDL or file a state claim
- Compensation may include medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering
- Verdicts and settlements have exceeded $1 million in many California cases
If You Used Gold Bond Talc Products
- You may still qualify for compensation if diagnosed with mesothelioma or ovarian cancer
- Claims are typically handled individually, not through mass torts
- Settlements are confidential but may range from $100,000 to $500,000, depending on severity
Final Thoughts
While both Johnson & Johnson and Gold Bond have faced talcum powder lawsuits, the scale and outcomes differ dramatically. J&J’s litigation has resulted in billions in proposed settlements, massive jury verdicts, and ongoing federal trials. Gold Bond’s legal exposure remains limited, with most cases resolved quietly.
If you or a loved one in California developed cancer after using talc-based products from either brand, you may be entitled to compensation. A qualified California talcum powder attorney can help you determine eligibility, gather medical evidence, and pursue justice through settlement or trial.