In a recent development, the U.S. Department of Justice has filed a civil lawsuit against Walgreens Boots Alliance and its subsidiaries, accusing them of dispensing millions of unlawful prescriptions in violation of federal laws. The lawsuit was submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
The Justice Department alleges that Walgreens filled numerous prescriptions without legitimate medical purposes, breaching the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and seeking reimbursements from federal health care programs in violation of the False Claims Act (FCA). "This lawsuit seeks to hold Walgreens accountable for the many years that it failed to meet its obligations when dispensing dangerous opioids and other drugs," stated Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton.
The complaint outlines allegations from August 2012 to present, claiming that Walgreens knowingly dispensed controlled substances despite clear red flags indicating potential illegality. These included prescriptions for excessive opioid quantities and early refills. The company is also accused of pressuring pharmacists to quickly fill prescriptions without proper verification.
Walgreens could face significant penalties if found liable, including civil fines up to $80,850 per unlawful prescription under the CSA and additional damages under the FCA. Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual emphasized the importance of these laws in protecting communities from opioid dangers.
Several U.S. Attorneys echoed concerns about Walgreens' practices contributing to the opioid crisis nationwide. "Pharmacies play a critical role in ensuring that only lawful controlled substance prescriptions are dispensed – Walgreens failed to do just that," said U.S. Attorney Erek Barron for Maryland.
The case has drawn attention due to whistleblower actions initiated by former Walgreens employees under the FCA's qui tam provisions, allowing private parties to sue on behalf of the government.
The Justice Department's action highlights its ongoing efforts against health care fraud and opioid-related issues through initiatives like the Opioid Epidemic Civil Litigation Task Force established in March 2023.
These claims remain allegations with no liability determination made yet.