Walgreens has agreed to settle a lawsuit with the US Department of Justice for up to $350 million over allegations it illegally dispensed millions of opioid prescriptions between 2012 and 2023. The settlement requires Walgreens to pay at least $300 million immediately, with an additional $50 million due if the company undergoes a sale, merger, or transfer before 2032. The government accused Walgreens of ignoring red flags and pressuring pharmacists to fill prescriptions quickly, contributing to the opioid crisis. Walgreens denies liability but stated the settlement allows them to resolve all opioid-related litigation favorably. Additionally, Walgreens has committed to enhancing compliance measures and cooperating with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Department of Health and Human Services to prevent future issues.
— new from CNN
