Watson Pharmaceuticals has received clearance from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for its acquisition of generic drug manufacturer, Actavis.
Watson Pharmaceuticals has received clearance from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for its acquisition of generic drug manufacturer Actavis. The $5.6 billion deal was first announced in April 2012, and will result in Watson becoming the third largest global generic-drug company.
The FTC identified 21 drugs either currently marketed or under development for which competition would be reduced as a result of the merger. The FTC’s consent order requires Watson or Actavis to sell assets related to 14 drugs to Par Pharmaceuticals. Watson has indicated in a press release that Par will acquire the following products:
Sandoz, the generic pharmaceuticals division of Novartis, will acquire the following four products:
The FTC expects that Sandoz and Par will be able to replicate the competition that otherwise would have been lost through the acquisition. For the remaining three drugs, different steps have been taken to address the competition concerns. To remedy the FTC’s concerns related to one drug product, the combined firm is required to end Actavis’s existing development and manufacturing agreement with Pfizer and transfer the manufacturing rights back to Pfizer. For two other drugs, Watson and Actavis must relinquish the marketing rights to another firm.
According to the FTC press release, some products being divested have been identified by FDA as being in short supply. The FTC evaluated whether the proposed transaction would exacerbate any of those shortages, and concluded that the manufacture of those products would not likely be altered in a way that could affect their continued availability.
The Future of Cleanroom Construction: How Hybrid Solutions are Changing the Game
May 14th 2025Imagine a world where cleanroom facilities—essential for pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, and high-tech industries—are built with unparalleled speed, precision, and efficiency. That world is here, thanks to the hybrid construction approach. By blending traditional stick-built methods with modular and prefabricated solutions, companies are overcoming the limitations of conventional construction while ensuring compliance with stringent industry regulations. In this interview, we explore how hybrid cleanroom construction is transforming the industry, offering faster project timelines, improved quality control, and significant cost advantages. Join us as we delve into this game-changing approach with industry experts who are leading the charge in revolutionizing cleanroom infrastructure.
Mastering Antibody-Drug Conjugates
December 19th 2024In this episode, we explore BIOVECTRA’s capabilities in antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) manufacturing, from complex conjugation chemistry to synthesis of highly potent payloads. We’ll also showcase how BIOVECTRA’s extensive experience in complex chemistries and specialized small molecule manufacturing gives them a unique perspective, strengthening their approach to ADC production and ensuring clients receive custom solutions across all project stages.
Personalized CRISPR Therapy Successfully Treats Infant With Rare, Incurable CPS1 Deficiency
May 16th 2025A pediatric patient with a rare genetic disorder safely received a personalized CRISPR therapy, marking the first known case of a personalized CRISPR-based medicine administered to a single patient.
Top 10 Cleanroom Problems That Can Be Prevented via Preventative Maintenance (May 2025)
May 16th 2025Cleanrooms require strict environmental control to maintain sterility, prevent contamination, and ensure seamless operations. Without a proactive preventative maintenance (PM) program, various issues can arise, leading to costly downtime, contamination risks, and operational inefficiencies. Below are ten common cleanroom problems that can be effectively mitigated through proper PM practices.