HEALTH

Marion Merrell Dow Seeks Advice: The Kansas City, Mo., pharmaceuticals company said it has asked its investment banker to advise it on various strategic alliances it is considering “to keep pace with the rapid changes taking place” in the industry. In a news release, Marion Merrell Dow Inc. said it is evaluating candidates for acquisition and other business and marketing alliances. Separately, Dow Chemical Co., which owns about 72% of the outstanding common stock of Marion Merrell Dow, has also retained an investment banker to advise it with respect to any strategic opportunity that may arise for Marion Merrell Dow.