Spending on prescription drugs averaged $387.09 a person last year, up 17.4 percent from the average of $329.83 in 1998, Express Scripts reported.

In addition, Express Scripts has records of other drugs that a patient has bought.

One of the contractors is Express Scripts, a pharmacy benefits management concern.

Premier said last night that its relationship with Express Scripts was "entirely appropriate."

Against that background, Express Scripts made its offer of $26 billion in cash and stock yesterday.

The statistic was based on the millions of prescriptions filled by Express Scripts each year.

People at risk are often older, Express Scripts said, and have a history of ulcers or other stomach problems.

It is unclear how investors will react to Express Scripts' offer.

Another benefit manager, Express Scripts, serves 55 million people.

The bid from Express Scripts is worth $61.08 a share.