USA: AKORN PHARMACEUTICALS OBJECTS TO USE OF DRUGS IN EXECUTIONS

Akorn Pharmaceuticals, a manufacturer of two drugs (midazolam and pentobarbital) that have been used in executions, released a statement announcing measures to block the sale of its products to prisons.
Akorn joins at least two other U.S.-based drug companies and several European companies in expressing opposition to the use of their products in lethal injections. The connection between Akorn's drugs and executions was revealed through a filing by the Alabama Department of Corrections, despite the state's claim of the need for secrecy. Akorn's statement announcing their new restrictions said, “The employees of Akorn are committed to furthering human health and wellness. In the interest of promoting these values, Akorn strongly objects to the use of its products to conduct or support capital punishment through lethal injection or other means.”