Three wholesale pharmaceutical distributors, including Chesterbrook-based AmerisourceBergen, and Teva Pharmaceuticals, which has a presence in West Chester, agreed to terms on a $260 million settlement just hours before the start of the first federal trial on the country’s opioid crisis, writes John George for the Philadelphia Business Journal.

The companies were sued by two Ohio counties for their role in contributing to the nation’s opioid epidemic. But none of the companies admitted to any wrongdoings in the settlement.

In a joint statement, the three distributors – which also includes Cardinal Health and McKesson – and Teva stated that they strongly dispute the allegations brought forward by the two counties. However, they believe settling the trial is an important step toward achieving a global resolution to the issue and finding a way to deliver meaningful relief.

“The companies expect settlement funds to be used in support of initiatives to combat the opioid epidemic, including treatment, rehabilitation, mental health, and other important efforts,” the statement read.

The distributors also emphasized that they continue to be deeply concerned about the impact of the opioid epidemic on families and communities across the country and are “committed to being part of the solution.”

Read more about the settlement in the Philadelphia Business Journal here.

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