FTC Chair Lina Khan weighed in, highlighting this case as a testament to the evolving nature of FTC’s scrutiny on pharma mergers. Khan observed the changing landscape, noting a rising trend wherein even non-competing pharma giants, like Amgen and Horizon, could potentially throttle competition.
An interesting nugget to chew on: this marks the FTC’s first obstacle to an “unconsummated pharmaceutical merger” in over a decade and a half.
Amgen $28B Horizon Deal : Future Watchdogs
Going forward, Amgen won’t just have the FTC’s eyes on them. The six state attorneys general, initially in contention, will act as independent sentinels, ensuring Amgen plays by the rules. This includes unfiltered access to the company’s documents and reports.
Meanwhile, the FTC has thrown open the gates for public discourse, inviting comments on the proposed order for the next month.
