PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has joined attorneys general from 45 states and territories in seeking court approval of settlements with three generic drug manufacturers accused of participating in a long-running price-fixing scheme.
The settlements involve Ascend Laboratories, Citron Pharma, and Mayne Pharma. State officials allege the companies conspired to inflate prices, reduce competition, and manipulate the market for numerous generic prescription drugs.
Jackley said the agreements are part of an ongoing effort to hold drug manufacturers accountable and provide compensation for consumers affected by higher prescription costs.
Under the settlements, Ascend will pay $400,000 and Mayne Pharma will pay $650,000 to participating states. Citron Pharma, which is no longer operating, agreed to non-monetary terms that include business reforms and compliance measures.
South Dakota will receive a portion of the settlement funds, with additional money allocated to the state’s Medicaid program. Officials say affected consumers may also be eligible for compensation.
The settlements come as states continue to pursue broader litigation against generic drug manufacturers, with a trial currently scheduled for February 2027. Previous settlements in the nationwide investigation have totaled nearly $500 million.
Consumers who purchased generic prescription drugs between May 2009 and December 2019 may be eligible to file a claim for compensation through the multistate settlement program.
Comments