Novartis, Sandoz Attempt to Block Execution Drug From US

Novartis is making efforts to keep sodium thiopental (ST) manufactured by its Sandoz unit out of the U.S., where the drug is frequently used in lethal injections. The company has advised its subsidiaries not to sell or export the products to the U.S. In addition, Sandoz and Novartis “support only the authorized use of injectable thiopental, which is primarily indicated for the induction of anesthesia.” Since U.S.-based Hospira ceased manufacturing ST in 2009, the drug has been in short supply worldwide and U.S. states have struggled to obtain enough product for use in executions.
Drug Industry Daily