Bayer settles states’ drug claims

Thirty states, including California, have reached an $8-million settlement with Bayer Corp. over allegations that the drug maker failed to adequately warn consumers about risks associated with a cholesterol-reducing drug.

The company allegedly learned after introducing Baycol in the U.S. in February 1998 that the drug posed significantly greater health risks than other similar drugs, Pennsylvania Atty. Gen. Tom Corbett said in a statement Tuesday.

Bayer informed the Food and Drug Administration about Baycol’s higher risks, but did not sufficiently warn consumers and doctors about potential problems such as a severe muscle reaction that could cause kidney failure, Corbett said, citing a multi-state investigation.

Bayer voluntarily withdrew Baycol from the market in August 2001.

As part of the settlement, the lead states in the investigation -- Pennsylvania, Vermont, Oregon, Michigan and Connecticut -- each will receive $600,000 for future consumer protection and enforcement programs. California and the other states will receive $200,000 each.