Who / What
Amphastar Pharmaceuticals is a publicly traded American specialty pharmaceutical company. The company focuses on the development, manufacturing, and sale of inhalation and intranasal products. It is notable for its work with medications like naloxone, used to treat opioid overdose.
Background & History
Amphastar Pharmaceuticals was incorporated in May 2004. As a specialty pharmaceutical company, it has focused on developing and commercializing niche drug products. The company gained significant attention in 2015 due to its pricing of naloxone during the opioid crisis.
Why Notable
Amphastar Pharmaceuticals is notable for its development and sale of naloxone, a crucial medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. The company's pricing decisions regarding naloxone sparked considerable controversy during the opioid epidemic. This has brought the company into the public eye and highlighted issues related to pharmaceutical pricing.
In the News
Amphastar Pharmaceuticals gained significant attention in 2015 when it increased the price of naloxone, an injectable generic drug, from approximately $20 to $40. This decision was widely criticized during the opioid crisis due to concerns about affordability and access to a life-saving medication.
