The associations are now seeking an injunction to block implementation of the definition of AMP in the Final Rule issued in July. I’m skeptical that they will get the injunction, but not very confident in my viewpoint given the vagaries (and my limited knowledge) of the legal issues.
Here are links to the key documents:
The complaint focuses on an alleged difference between the statutory definition of AMP in Section 1927 of the Social Security Act and the definition in the Final Rule. The plaintiffs claim: “The statutory definition of AMP is clear and simple.” I strongly disagree with this characterization, although it’s not appropriate for me to provide a point-by-point rebuttal in a public forum. (Sorry, legal mumbo-jumbo fans!)
To be honest, I have no idea whether this gambit will work. I was surprised when secondary wholesalers successfully got an injunction last year against the FDA’s implementation of the pedigree requirements of the Prescription Drug Marketing Act (PDMA), so perhaps history will repeat itself this December.
However, I do want to highlight some comments made in the last November’s PDMA injunction decision by Judge Tomlison. While the circumstances are different, she summarized the following guidelines in making her decision:
- “A preliminary injunction is a drastic and extraordinary remedy that should not be granted routinely.”
- “The Second Circuit has repeatedly held that the irreparable harm requirement is ‘the single most important prerequisite for the issuance of a preliminary injunction.’”
- “Irreparable harm may be found where the moving party makes a ‘strong showing that economic loss would significantly damage its business above and beyond a simple diminution in profits.’”
As loyal readers know, I have strongly criticized the fear-mongering and hype associated with AMP. This latest twist adds even more drama to the debate. Who needs Hollywood writers when we have retail pharmacy?