US Goes After CVS for Allegedly Dispensing Prescriptions Illegally

The Department of Justice is taking a significant step to address the opioid epidemic by filing a lawsuit against CVS Pharmacy Inc. for alleged unlawful dispensing of opioid prescriptions.

At a Glance

The DOJ has accused CVS of violating federal opioid regulations.
CVS faces allegations of ignoring red flags in prescription practices.
The lawsuit seeks accountability for CVS’s role in the opioid crisis.
CVS denies the claims, asserting compliance with laws.

DOJ Lawsuit Against CVS

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a civil complaint against CVS Pharmacy Inc., claiming the pharmacy unlawfully filled opioid prescriptions in violation of federal health care laws. CVS is accused of facilitating illicit prescription practices by ignoring red flags associated with pill mill operations, where prescribers issued potentially dangerous and high-risk opioid prescriptions. This legal action is part of a broader federal effort to hold parties accountable for contributing to the opioid epidemic.

The lawsuit alleges CVS sought reimbursements from federal health care programs for these opioid prescriptions, potentially violating the False Claims Act. Accusations include filling prescriptions for excessive quantities, early refills, and high-risk “trinity” prescriptions, which combine three specific medications that heighten the risk of addiction and misuse.

The DOJ announced a lawsuit accusing CVS of filling and billing federal health insurance programs for illegal opioid prescriptions, contributing to a nationwide epidemic of opioid addiction and overdose https://t.co/YswKL4E6CQ pic.twitter.com/l6QhZ08r47

— Reuters Legal (@ReutersLegal) December 18, 2024

CVS’s Defense and Broader Impact

CVS has denied these allegations, stating it has been cooperating with the DOJ’s investigation for over four years. The pharmacy chain emphasizes that all filled prescriptions were FDA-approved and issued by licensed practitioners. “We will defend ourselves vigorously against this misguided federal lawsuit,” stated CVS, referring to past litigations resolved through a global agreement with state Attorneys General.

The complaint against CVS is linked to the national tragedy of the opioid crisis, responsible for over 80,000 deaths annually. The DOJ stresses the importance of stricter controls on prescription opioids to prevent widespread addiction, echoing the need for pharmacy chains like CVS to take significant responsibility as gatekeepers.

The Opioid Crisis and Accountability

The opioid crisis in the United States has shifted, with illicit fentanyl now accounting for the majority of opioid-related deaths. Despite previous litigation and settlements estimated at about $50 billion, the struggle to address and mitigate the epidemic continues. If found liable, CVS may face civil penalties and damages for these allegations, underscoring a persistent effort to hold companies accountable for roles they may have played in exacerbating the crisis.

This lawsuit highlights ongoing federal efforts to critically assess and rectify the practices of entities involved in the distribution and regulation of opioids. Holding organizations accountable helps in the ongoing battle to curtail opioid abuse and save lives across the nation.