Amgen settles for $71 million over Aranesp, Enbrel marketing

Florida and 48 other states said today they reached a $71 million settlement with Amgen Inc. resolving allegations that Amgen unlawfully promoted the medications Aranesp and Enbrel.

Aranesp is used to treat types of anemia by stimulating bone marrow to produce red blood cells, the Florida Attorney General’s Office noted. Enbrel is used to treat a number of conditions, including plaque psoriasis.

The states alleged Amgen promoted uses and dosing frequencies for the drugs not federally approved or lacking in reliable scientific evidence.

The settlement, which is subject to court approval, requires Amgen to reform its marketing and promotional practices.