Attorney General Gentner Drummond announced that Lannett Company, Inc. and Bausch Health Companies will pay a combined $17.85 million to resolve claims they worked together to raise prices on generic prescription drugs in Oklahoma. The settlement is part of a larger multistate case involving allegations against several pharmaceutical firms for price-fixing.
“These drug companies colluded to jack up prices on medications that Oklahoma families depend on,” said Drummond. “Their illegal scheming cost our citizens and state healthcare programs millions of dollars. We’re holding them accountable and will continue fighting to protect Oklahoma consumers.”
Oklahoma joined 47 other states and territories in the agreement. Both companies have committed to cooperate with ongoing investigations and introduce internal changes designed to prevent future instances of price-fixing.
The drugs involved in the alleged scheme include tablets, capsules, creams, ointments, antibiotics, anti-depressants, contraceptives, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and others treating conditions such as infections, diabetes, cancer, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, HIV and ADHD. In some cases, the coordinated price increases exceeded 1,000 percent.
Under the settlement terms, Lannett will pay more than $13 million while Bausch will contribute $4 million. The funds are set aside for affected consumers.
Individuals in Oklahoma who purchased certain generic prescription drugs between May 2009 and December 2019 may qualify for compensation. They can check eligibility by calling 866-290-0182 or visiting www.AGGenericDrugs.com.
Gentner Drummond leads the Oklahoma Attorney General’s office, which works on issues including crime prevention and government transparency while supporting policies related to energy production and stricter laws on offenses like drug distribution. The office collaborates with federal partners to address organized crime within public legal services across Oklahoma.
