LOS ANGELES (AP) - The Irvine-based makers of the Lap-Band say they will no longer sell the weight-loss device to companies affiliated with the 1-800-GET-THIN marketing company.
The Los Angeles Times reports Thursday that Allergan issued a statement saying it has decided to discontinue sales without offering further details of the decision.
The Times reports five Southern California patients have died since 2009 following Lap-Band surgeries at clinics affiliated with 1-800-GET-THIN.
In a statement, the surgery centers say they're disappointed in Allergan's decision, but remain committed to the health and welfare of patients interested in weight loss solutions. They say they will continue to work with their patients to find the best healthcare options for their medical needs.
The marketing company has been the target of state and federal investigations in recent months.
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