05/07/2015 // JusticeNewsFlash // (press release)
Oklahoma City – The manufacturer of a controversial execution drug has requested that the state of Oklahoma return its products. The Associated Press reports Illinois-based drug manufacturer Akorn asked in a letter to Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt for the return of the sedative midazolam and any other of its products or supplies obtained for the execution of prisoners.
Akorn's general counsel, Joseph Bonaccorsi, wrote in a letter sent in March, “If your prisons have purchased Akorn products directly or indirectly for use in capital punishment we ask that you immediately return our products for a full refund.”
The letter also said that the company was taking steps to ensure that the sedative and painkiller hydromorphone would not be made available to states.
There are several manufacturers of the surgical sedative midazolam. Oklahoma began using it in executions last year, sparking controversy after inmates began alleging that the drug is not effective in preventing the pain caused by another drug used in the state’s protocol for lethal injections.
The Supreme Court is currently reviewing the appropriateness of use of the sedative in executions.
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