Prescriptions Plus, a pharmacy located in Gastonia, North Carolina, has agreed to pay $204,000 following allegations of violating the Controlled Substances Act's recordkeeping requirements. This announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Lawrence J. Cameron.
The Controlled Substances Act aims to combat illegal distribution and misuse of controlled substances, including prescription drugs. Pharmacies that dispense these substances must register with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and adhere to strict recordkeeping rules. These rules ensure proper handling and distribution of controlled substances, with violations leading to civil penalties.
According to the United States, Prescriptions Plus failed to adequately monitor its staff pharmacist and maintain accurate records concerning the receipt and distribution of controlled substances such as oxycodone and alprazolam. The government alleges these lapses enabled illegal distribution by the staff pharmacist.
In response, Prescriptions Plus has reportedly taken measures to enhance compliance with the Controlled Substances Act by implementing new recordkeeping policies. Additionally, they have entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with the DEA to address future compliance issues.
"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 said: "DEA investigators will continue to aggressively pursue unlawful dispensing practices of pharmacists... The DEA is committed to making sure healthcare providers are abiding by law."
The investigation involved several 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 represented the Government in this civil enforcement matter.
It should be noted that while claims were resolved through settlement negotiations there has been no determination regarding liability in this case.
