Allergan ‘not in talks to acquire Salix’

Allergan is not in active talks to acquire Salix Pharmaceuticals, people with knowledge of the matter said, though the drugmakers have discussed a deal.

Allergan, seeking to stave off a hostile bid from Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, approached Salix about buying the drugmaker in recent months, the people said.

With talks between the two sides now dormant, Allergan continues to explore other options, one of the people said.