Ameridose to remain closed through Dec.

BOSTON (AP) -- A Massachusetts drug company with the same founders as a compounding pharmacy tied to a deadly meningitis outbreak has agreed with state regulators to remain closed through the end of the year.

Ameridose first agreed to close for inspection in October after tainted steroids from its sister company, the New England Compounding Center, were linked to a fungal meningitis outbreak that has caused 32 deaths. The agreement has been extended several times. The latest would have expired Monday.

Ameridose has laid off most workers and recalled its products, though none have been found to be contaminated. The company makes injectable drugs for hospitals.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Monday its monthlong inspection of Ameridose found numerous potential sources of contamination, including leaky ceilings and insects. Ameridose has said it will work to address those issues.