Rite Aid Hit with $5M Fine for Drug Law Violations in Eight States

Rite Aid Corporation and its subsidiaries are facing a $5 million fine for violating the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) in eight states. federal prosecutors announced the settlement, which also includes a compliance plan with the DEA.

The DEA’s investigation began in 2004, uncovering numerous violations across 53 Rite Aid locations. These included filling prescriptions without legitimate medical purpose, failing to report thefts of controlled substances, and inadequate record-keeping.

Of particular concern were significant shortages or surpluses of highly abused drugs like oxycodone and hydrocodone at several pharmacies. This pattern suggests a systemic issue with the handling of controlled substances, leading to potential diversion into illegal markets.

Deputy Attorney General Mark Filip emphasized the importance of regulating prescription medications due to their harmful effects, stating that this settlement aims to curb illegal access to these drugs.

Michele M. Leonhart, DEA Acting Administrator, highlighted the responsibility of pharmacies in preventing drug abuse and diversions. She noted that Rite Aid’s fine is a testament to the feds’ commitment to enforcing the law and protecting public health.

Under the compliance plan, Rite Aid must implement stringent tracking systems and conduct regular audits at all 4,915 stores to ensure secure storage and compliance with the CSA. This includes quarterly physical counts of Schedule II drugs and yearly counts for hydrocodone and alprazolam.

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