Ore. to get share of Abbott Labs settlements
Monday, May 7, 2012
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Oregon will get a multimillion dollar slice of Abbott Laboratories settlements of allegations that it promoted the anti-seizure drug Depakote for uses not approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
The Oregonian reports (http://is.gd/8mlZMA) that the settlements announced Monday will mean more than $6 million for Oregon taxpayers.
Abbott has pleaded guilty and agreed to pay $1.5 billion. The case includes a criminal fine and forfeiture of $700 million and civil settlements with the federal government and states totaling $800 million.
Separately, Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli announced a $100 million settlement with Abbott of consumer claims in 45 states and the District of Columbia.
Depakote is an anti-seizure and mood-stabilizing drug prescribed for bipolar disorder.
The company admitted that it marketed the drug for unapproved uses, including treatment of schizophrenia, agitated dementia and autism.
