Senators Call on FTC to Investigate Saline Solution Suppliers

Four senators are asking the Federal Trade Commission to investigate potential illegal collusion by three suppliers of saline solution in the U.S., pointing out that the shortage since 2013 continues even as prices rise.

Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Orrin G. Hatch (R-Utah) wrote to FTC Chairwoman Edith Ramirez asking the commission to investigate whether the suppliers are taking advantage of the shortage in ways that run afoul of antitrust laws.

They point out that while price increases often help clear shortages, saline prices have increased 200 to 300 percent over the last few years while the shortage persists. The letter names Baxter, Pfizer’s Hospira unit and B. Braun as the three companies providing saline solutions in the U.S.

A Hospira spokesman says his company will cooperate with any inquiry from the FTC. He adds that Hospira responded to the shortage by increasing its manufacturing to meet demand. Baxter and B. Braun did not respond to requests for comment.