It is highly likely that more such studies will be required by the FDA for any drug intended to treat chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, etc.

FORBES: Will Merck's Failure With Tredaptive Impact How Drugs Are Approved in Europe?

The statement was intended to quell worries by holders of Irish government bonds that their holdings would be required to take writedowns under the proposal.

FORBES: E.U. Statement Aims At Curbing Irish Debt Fears, How Will EIRL React?