Corrie's Beverley Callard slams money-grabbing drug companies

CORONATION Street star Beverley Callard yesterday slammed drugs companies for putting cash before care as she battles depression.

GREEDY: Beverley Callard says drug companies are more concerned with money than health

The actress is the latest victim of a Corrie curse in which a string of top stars have left within a year.

Beverley, who plays Liz McDonald, claims her anti-depression medication was axed by drug firms for not being profitable enough.

She has been signed off work on the soap for up to two months after running out of the medicine she has been using for two years.

CORRIE CURSE: Simon Gregson is off the show too

Beverley, 59, has battled to come to terms with the cancer death last year of co-star Anne Kirkbride, 60, who played Deirdre Barlow.

Simon Gregson, 41, who plays Beverley’s screen son Steve McDonald, took five months off with a mystery illness.

Seven other cast members have either left or asked to take breaks.

A source said: “To viewers it must feel like the world is falling in. It has been an unfortunate, unsettling and upsetting period.

“But everyone is determined to pull together to ensure the show will go from strength to strength.’’

Beverley was ordered home by ITV bosses after she fell ill at work when her medication ran out.

She later tweeted: “Been battling the demons of depression.

“One of the meds I'm on has been stopped by pharmaceutical company. Apparently it doesn’t make money.

“I'm getting there!!!! Thanks so much for all your good wishes.”

Fan Shane Telfor replied “Remember the good old days when medicine was about making people better... not money!”

The actress replied: “Too true. Took two years to get the right balance, then they stop it ”

ABSENT: Alison King

Beverley underwent electric shock treatment after depression forced her off the show in 2009.

Her absence comes after Paula Lane, 29, announced she is leaving after six years as Kylie Platt.

Alison King, 43, who plays Carla Connor, is set to take a break in May.

Veteran Emily Bishop actress Eileen Derbyshire, 84, has also requested time off.

Emmerdale boss Kate Oates has been drafted in to combat falling ratings.