FTC taking its time on Abbvie and Allergan

There’s been tons of pressure on the Federal Trade Commission — from consumer groups, unions, and even politicians — to block AbbVie from successfully acquiring Allergan. The worry is that the $63 billion merger would create the fourth largest pharmaceutical company in the world — decreasing market competition in a time when drug prices are under intense scrutiny. 

Maybe the FTC is paying attention?

AbbVie and Allergan said late Friday they had received a second request for information from the antitrust regulator. The drug makers say that the inquiry was fully expected and that they still believe the deal will close early next year.