Amgen to Pay $71M to Settle Off-Label Enbrel, Aranesp Claims

Aug. 19, 2015

California-based biotech Amgen has agreed to pay $71 million to resolve claims that the company promoted its popular Enbrel and Aranesp drugs for uses not approved by the FDA.

Enbrel is approved to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, while Aranesp is approved to treat certain forms of anemia. Amgen was charged with violating state consumer protection laws by marketing both drugs for off-label uses, by promoting Enbrel to treat mild plaque psoriasis and Aranesp to treat anemia caused by cancer.

Additionally, Amgen marketed Aranesp for longer dosing frequencies than approved by the FDA.

The $71 million will be distributed among the 48 U.S. states and District of Columbia involved in the lawsuit.

Read the Reuters press release