Endo Health will pay almost $193 million to resolve claims that it improperly marketed the shingles treatment Lidoderm for unapproved uses like treating lower back pain.

 

The Malvern, Pa., drugmaker will pay $171.9 million in civil false claims settlements largely to the federal government, with $34.2 million from that total going to 47 states and the District of Columbia. Endo also agreed to pay $20.8 million as part of a deferred prosecution agreement.

 

Federal prosecutors said Friday that Endo Health Solutions Inc. marketed the drug for unapproved uses between 2002 and 2006.

 

Endo said it was pleased to resolve the issue, and it has programs in place to help it comply with the agreements. The drugmaker had already set aside $194 million to cover settlement costs.

 

Doctors can prescribe medicines for any use, but drug makers cannot promote them in any way that is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

 

Date: February 21, 2014

Source: Associated Press