FTC requests more info from Merck, Schering-Plough

The Federal Trade Commission has asked for more information about the $41.1 billion deal between Drugmakers Merck and Co. and Schering-Plough Corp. Merck of Whitehouse Station, N.J., and Schering-Plough, Kenilworth, N.J., said they expected the request, which was made under federal antitrust law. The companies intend to cooperate with the request. Merck agreed to buy Schering-Plough in March, and the companies still expect the deal to close in the fourth quarter. The transaction also requires approval by Merck and Schering-Plough shareholders. The combined company would be the world''s second-largest drugmaker by revenue, with products including the asthma drug Singulair, Nasonex for allergies, and the heart drugs Zetia and Vytorin.