Healthcare services group United Drug is spending up to $40 million (€31.8 million) on two deals in the United States.

The Irish group said today it has agreed to buy marketing business Synopia and safety and risk management specialist Drug Safety Alliance for a total of $40 million (€31.8 million).

United Drug will spend $24.2 million on its new purchases initially. Both deals have earn out clauses, tied to agreed profit targets, that could bring the total outlay up to $40 million.

The group's chief executive, Liam Fitzgerald, said both businesses would strengthen United Drug's position in the US healthcare services market.