Attorney General Joseph A. Foster announces that New Hampshire has joined with other states and the federal government and reached an agreement with Omnicare Inc. (Omnicare) to settle civil allegations that Omnicare conspired with Abbott Laboratories (Abbott) through a number of disguised kickback schemes to increase overall use of Depakote. Abbott manufactures Depakote, a drug that is used to treat seizure disorders and bipolar mania. The states contend that from January 1, 2001 through December 31, 2008, Omnicare knowingly solicited and received illegal remuneration from Abbott in exchange for engaging in certain promotional programs, grants, and other financial support. This alleged conduct resulted in false claims to Medicaid and other federal healthcare programs.

Omnicare will pay the states and the federal government a total of $28.125 million in civil damages to compensate Medicaid, Medicare, and various federal healthcare programs for harm suffered as a result of its conduct. As a result of the settlement, the State of New Hampshire will receive $703,242.19. Omnicare was acquired by CVS Health Corporation in August 2015.