Prescriptions Plus, a pharmacy located in Gastonia, North Carolina, has agreed to pay $204,000 to address allegations of violating the Controlled Substances Act's recordkeeping requirements. The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Lawrence J. Cameron.
The Controlled Substances Act is designed to combat illegal distribution and misuse of controlled substances, including prescription medications. Pharmacies must register with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and adhere to strict recordkeeping rules for all controlled substances they handle. These records are crucial for ensuring proper management and distribution of these substances. Non-compliance can lead to civil penalties.
According to the United States' allegations, Prescriptions Plus failed in monitoring its staff pharmacist's conduct and maintaining accurate records of controlled substances like oxycodone and alprazolam. This negligence allegedly enabled illegal distribution by its pharmacist.
In response, Prescriptions Plus claims it has taken steps towards compliance by implementing new recordkeeping policies. The pharmacy has also signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the DEA outlining measures for future adherence to the law.
"When pharmacies fail to comply with the Controlled Substances Act, they can put opioids and other prescription drugs at risk of abuse on the street, causing great harm to our communities," stated Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron. "Our Office is committed to working with the Drug Enforcement Administration to hold pharmacies accountable when they fail to take required steps to prevent unlawful drug distribution."
Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division of the DEA, overseeing Charlotte District Office operations, commented: "DEA investigators will continue to aggressively pursue the unlawful dispensing practices of pharmacists, as was the case with the pharmacist working at Prescriptions Plus. The DEA is committed to making sure healthcare providers are abiding by the law."
The investigation was conducted by multiple agencies including DEA Charlotte District Office Tactical Diversion Squad, Gastonia Police Department, DEA Greensboro Resident Office Diversion Group, DEA Columbia District Office Diversion Group, North Carolina Board of Pharmacy, and IRS Charlotte Criminal Investigation Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Holly H. Snow managed this civil enforcement matter on behalf of the Government.
It should be noted that these resolved claims are only allegations without any determination of liability.