ALSO NOTED: Merck HIV med gets FDA nod; Health Canada warns on Abbott diet drug;

> As expected, Merck got the FDA's OK for its new HIV drug Isentress, expected to account for 8 percent of its worldwide sales in the next three to five years. The drug is earmarked for those whose treatment with other meds is failing. Release

> Health Canada is warning doctors against the heart risks associated with Abbott Laboratories weight-loss drug Meridia--again. Report

> AstraZeneca stock bounced upward after Morgan Stanley boosted its price target for the shares. Report

> German drugs distributor Celesio is negotiating to buy a majority stake in Russia's Protek Holding, which has a 24 percent share of that country's pharma distribution market and owns its second-largest pharmacy chain. Report

> Ireland's United Drug has bought U.S.-based Alliance Healthcare Information, a sales-and-marketing services firm. Report

And Finally... How would you like a lead-laced kiss? The FDA is reviewing claims that 20 brand-name lipsticks contain dangerous levels of the heavy metal. Report