VSL#3 Probiotic $20M False Advertising Class Action Settlement

Consumers who purchased VSL#3 probiotic in the United States between June 1, 2016, and June 19, 2019, may qualify to submit a claim for up to $800 from a class action settlement.

VSL Pharmaceuticals Inc., Leadiant Biosciences Inc. and Alfasigma USA Inc. agreed to pay $20 million to settle a class action lawsuit alleging these companies misrepresented the clinical effectiveness of VSL#3, leading consumers to overpay for the product.

Who can file a claim?

The class includes anyone who bought VSL#3 for personal use between June 1, 2016, and June 19, 2019.

How much is the VS#3 false advertising settlement payout?

Class members can claim their payment with or without proof of purchase.

• Class members without proof of purchase: May claim $20 for one unit per household.
• Class members with proof of purchase: May claim $20 per unit for up to 40 units per household, a of maximum $800.
• Class members with a notice ID: May claim for the number of units reflected in the records, which counts as proof of purchase. If they have proof of additional purchases, they may claim additional units, up to 40.

If the total value of valid claims is less than the available funds, the per-unit payment may be increased up to three times, to $60 per unit. If the total claims exceed the available funds, the per-unit payment will be reduced pro rata.

How to claim an award

Class members can file a claim online or download a PDF claim form, fill it out and mail it to the settlement administrator.

Settlement administrator's mailing address: VSL#3 Class Action, c/o Settlement Administrator, 1650 Arch Street, Suite 2210, Philadelphia, PA 19103

The claim deadline is Oct. 20, 2026.

Required proof and claim information

• Class members who do not have a notice ID or confirmation code, and are submitting a claim for more than one unit, must provide proof of purchase.
• Class members who are submitting a claim using their notice ID and confirmation code, but are claiming additional purchases, must provide proof of purchase for the additional units claimed.

Payout options

• PayPal
• Venmo
• Zelle
• Virtual prepaid card
• Physical check mailed to the address on file

$20 million settlement fund breakdown

The $20,000,000 settlement fund includes:

• Settlement administration costs: Not to exceed $195,000
• Attorneys' fees: Up to $6,666,666.67 plus reasonable expenses
• Service awards to class representatives: Up to $10,000 each ($90,000 total)
• Payments to eligible claimants: The remainder of the fund

Important dates

• Deadline to opt out: Oct. 20, 2026
• Deadline to file a claim: Oct. 20, 2026
• Final approval hearing: Jan. 6, 2027

When is the VSL#3 probiotic settlement payout date?

The settlement administrator will issue payments within 90 days after the court grants final approval to the settlement .

Why did this class action settlement happen?

The plaintiffs claimed VSL Pharmaceuticals, Leadiant Biosciences and Alfasigma USA misrepresented the clinical effectiveness of VSL#3. The complaint alleged consumers overpaid for the product as a result.

The defendants deny these allegations but agreed to settle to avoid the costs and uncertainty of a trial.

Sources

1. Class notice
2. Settlement FAQ
3. Settlement agreement.pdf)
4. Claim form