In a notable conclusion to an extensive investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), OptumRx Inc. has consented to a $20 million settlement over claims that the company mishandled opioid prescriptions. According to the DEA, between April 2013 and April 2015, OptumRx is alleged to have filled prescriptions that included a dangerous "trinity" of opioids, benzodiazepines, and muscle relaxants. These combinations can significantly increase the risk of overdose and are a cause for concern due to their potential for abuse.
The settlement, which was announced last week, highlights the government's position that pharmacies play a crucial role in curbing the misuse of controlled substances. OptumRx, primarily through a mail-order pharmacy in Carlsbad, California was accused of ignoring "red flags" that ought to have been addressed before dispensing the medications. "DEA registrants have an obligation to protect the public, not help fuel the opioid epidemic," said Assistant Administrator Thomas W. Prevoznik of the DEA Diversion Control Division. Officials from OptumRx have since reported that as of 2017, the company has introduced stricter protocols for managing opioid prescriptions.
U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath for the Southern District of California has reiterated the important role of pharmacies as the last defense against the inappropriate distribution of narcotics, "Combating the opioid crisis on all fronts includes holding pharmacies accountable if they shirk any part of the responsibilities required in filling prescriptions for potentially harmful drugs," McGrath said. In line with these enhanced responsibilities, the Carlsbad operation has been closed while OptumRx asserted that they have bolstered concurrent drug utilization reviews to prevent harmful prescription combinations.
The announcement of this settlement with OptumRx comes on the heels of another Justice Department case where a $12 million agreement was made with Droguería Betances LLC, a major drug distributor in Puerto Rico for its failure to adequately report suspicious orders of opioids. According to Principal Deputy Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, pharmacies dispensing opioids have a "duty under the Controlled Substances Act to ensure that they fill prescriptions only for legitimate medical purposes." He stresses that the department, in collaboration with law enforcement, will be vigilant in ensuring compliance.
It's important to note that the allegations settled by this agreement have not been substantiated with a determination of liability. Nevertheless, these cases showcase the ongoing efforts of federal authorities to confront the opioid crisis and hold healthcare entities responsible for their part in scrutinizing prescriptions for controlled, and often dangerous, substances.
