The drugmaker will pay 27 states for marketing its pain reliever OxyContin for off-label use and for failing to properly disclose the drug’s potential for abuse and addiction. In addition, Purdue agreed to change the way it markets and promotes OxyContin, and to not make false, misleading or deceptive statements.

The settlement with the attorney generals of 27 states, includes a payment of $715,900 to North Carolina and the drugmaker will require all sales representatives to attend training on abuse and diversion before being allowed to promote the drug, among the requirements.

OxyContin is approved for treating long-term moderate to severe pain. According to the US Drug Enforcement Agency, the drug is a Schedule II narcotic often abused for non-medical purposes and sold on black-market rings Radio host Rush Limbaugh made headlines a few years ago when he acknowedged addiction to the painkiller. His name surfaced in connection with an investigation into illicit sales.

So far this year, the NC State Bureau of Investigation has investigated 10 cases involving the illegal diversion and misuse of OxyContin by healthcare professionals. The DEA reported 31 North Carolina counties that have above average rates of OxyContin prescriptions.

Source: CNNMoney.com

[tags]Off-Label Marketing, OxyContin, Purdue Pharma[/tags]