3 major drug distributors discussing $18 billion opioids settlement

Three major drug distributors — McKesson, AmerisourceBergen and Cardinal Health — are discussing an $18 billion settlement to resolve opioid litigation brought by state and local governments, the Wall Street Journal reports.

The big picture: The distributors, along with drug manufacturers and pharmacies, have been accused of contributing to the country's opioid epidemic through aggressive marketing and inadequate distribution oversight.

• Details: The deal being discussed would involve the 3 distributors paying $18 billion total over 18 years. Johnson & Johnson is also involved and discussing contributing additional money.

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