Novartis and Roche face investigations for alleged collusion in selling Lucentis for Age Related Macular Degeneration

Both the Governments of Italy and France have launched investigations into the procedures used by Roche and Novartis in the marketing of Lucentis st $2000 per dose, to ascertain if there was collusion to prevent Avastin ( a cheaper drug at $100 per dose) similar to Lucentis, from treating Age Related Macular Degeneration. The anti trust authority in Italy levied a $250 million fine against Novartis and Roche and now seeks a further $1.2 billion fine for restriction of competition, The EU has commenced its own investigation.