Sexual Harassment Lawyer Blawg
Pfizer, manufacturer of blockbuster migraine drug Nurtec, claims that as you would expect, it is a “safe space” for its own employees who suffer from migraine: “remote options can help employees retain their productivity while prioritizing their health.”
But a Charge filed by “Jennifer” with the EEOC tells another story. Jennifer was a member of the team which created Pfizer’s $ 1 billion cash cow Nurtec. Jennifer was herself diagnosed with chronic migraine in 2020. For the next four years Jennifer worked remotely while helping to develop and market Nurtec. Remote work allowed her to be productive and help other migraine sufferers who now depend on Nurtec.
In January 2024 Pfizer announced that all US employees were required to spend 2.5 days a week in the office. Given Pfizer’s published guidance that “remote options can help employees [suffering from migraine] retain their productivity while prioritizing their health,” her success on Nurtec working remotely for four years, and the fact that her working from home cost Pfizer zero, Jennifer expected that her requested accommodation–continuing to work remotely–would be granted.