FTC should heavily scrutinize the Amgen-Horizon and Indivior-Opiant proposed acquisitions, says US Senator

30 January 2023

US Senator Elizabeth Warren (Democrat, Massachusetts) has urged the Federal Trade Commission to look closely at two pending pharmaceutical mergers, insisting that the deals could lead to higher drug prices and prevent "affordable alternatives from entering the market."

The two pending big pharmaceutical mergers are US biotech giant Amgen’s (Nasdaq: AMGN) proposed $28.7 billion buy of Horizon Therapeutics (Nasdaq: HZNP), and UK-based Indivior’s (LON: INDV) offer to acquire Opiant Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: OPNT).

In her letter, the Senator expresses concern over the rampant consolidation in the pharmaceutical industry and its impact on drug affordability and access in the USA. She also highlights the companies’ long history of corporate price gouging and monopolistic behavior.

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