The move to shutter the program is noteworthy because it suggests the beginning of a trend among patient assistance programs for drugs as the uninsured gain coverage through state marketplaces or Medicaid.

In the latest of more than a dozen acquisitions Valeant has made since it was created by a merger with Biovail SA in 2011, Valeant’s purchase of Bausch & Lomb will increase its eye care portfolio substantially.

As with its Medicis buyout in 2012, Valeant is acquiring another company to serve essentially as a therapeutic division within the specialty pharma the Canadian firm is cobbling together from relentless M&A activity. Buying B&L will increase Valeant’s eye care holdings substantially.

As with its Medicis buyout in 2012, Valeant is acquiring another company to serve essentially as a therapeutic division within the specialty pharma the Canadian firm is cobbling together from relentless M&A activity. Buying B&L will increase Valeant’s eye care holdings substantially.