Walgreens Faces DOJ Lawsuit Over Millions of Allegedly Illegal Opioid Prescriptions

The Justice Department accuses Walgreens of violating federal drug laws and contributing to the opioid crisis through improper prescription practices since 2012.

• The Department of Justice filed a civil lawsuit alleging Walgreens dispensed millions of unlawful prescriptions for controlled substances, including opioids, without legitimate medical purpose.
• The lawsuit claims Walgreens pharmacists ignored clear red flags, such as excessive quantities and dangerous drug combinations, while prioritizing speed over accuracy.
• Federal prosecutors argue Walgreens' practices violated the Controlled Substances Act and False Claims Act, potentially exposing the company to billions in fines and penalties.
• Four whistleblowers, former Walgreens employees, initiated the case, alleging systemic failures and pressure on pharmacists to fill questionable prescriptions quickly.
• Walgreens denies the allegations, asserting the government is enforcing arbitrary rules and placing pharmacists in untenable situations.

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Investopedia Benzinga Sherwood News