Centene, Humana sue Merck, allege ‘monopolistic scheme’ to inflate drug prices

Centene and Humana each filed a lawsuit Sept. 22 alleging pharmaceutical company Merck stifled generic drug competition to inflate prices for Zetia and Vytorin, which treat high cholesterol. 

Advertisement

The independent lawsuits allege Merck fielded a “monopolistic scheme” that allowed them to maintain strong profits as new chemical exclusivity periods drew to a close. 

According to the lawsuits, both Merck and Glenmark Pharmaceuticals colluded to maintain control over Zetia and Vytorin and bring in profits, both by delaying Glenmark’s authorized generic and not releasing a Merck generic. 

By the time Glenmark entered the market after planned delays, the insurers overpaid hundreds of millions of dollars for the drugs, the lawsuits allege. 

Merck and Glenmark did not reply to Becker’s requests for comment at the time of publication.

At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Download Whitepaper

The cost-saving opportunity most health systems overlook

Many hospitals and health systems scrutinize staffing, service lines, and payer contracts for savings. Fewer look at one of their largest assets: real estate.…

Advertisement

Next Up in Legal & Regulatory Issues

Advertisement

Comments are closed.