Merck chief executive signals interest in medical devices  Share
this article: Merck chief executive Richard Clark told analysts
Friday he might consider expanding into medical devices and
diagnostics as a way to revive the company's fortunes. Clark
mapped out the options for the company in a private meeting with
analysts on Friday, Reuters said. The newly-appointed Merck
chief told analysts that change has to come but change "is not
synonymous with cutting costs." A Merck spokeswoman confirmed to
Reuters the meeting took place, adding that the drug maker is
"examining options" but that no decisions have been made.
Meanwhile, closing arguments are scheduled for today in Merck's
second Vioxx trial being held in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Lawyers for Merck and Frederick "Mike" Humeston, a postal worker
suing the company over Vioxx, met privately with the judge in
the case on Friday to negotiate the wording of instructions
given to jurors before they star deliberating.