Merck might have paid for CVS Caremark to analyze prescription information records and send the the doctors of those patients with Type II diabetes a letter recommending a change to Merck's diabetes drug Januvia.
Investigation and potential class action lawsuit against CVS Caremark and Merck.
New information has come to light indicating that CVS Caremark, Inc. may have violated the medical privacy rights of their customers. CVS Caremark used patient records and analyzed prescription information to determine which of their patients were likely being treated for type 2 diabetes. CVS Caremark then sent letters to the doctors of those patients urging them to consider prescribing Januvia, a newer drug which is many times more expensive than other diabetes treatments.
The mailings were paid for by Merck and Co., the pharmaceutical giant that produces Januvia.
This may be an improper use of patients' private medical information, and raises the concern that the practice could wrongly influence the professional judgment of doctors and result in increased costs for sufferers of diabetes.
Do not change medications without first consulting your doctor.
Defendant Details
Name (Stock Symbol)
Brief Description
CVS Caremark Corporation
CVS Caremark Corporation, a pharmacy services company, provides prescriptions and related healthcare services in the United States.
Merck & Co. Inc. (MRK)
Merck & Co. Inc. is a large pharmaceutical company.