What Happened
In January 2025, the Justice Department filed a civil complaint in the Northern District of Illinois against Walgreens Boots Alliance, Walgreen Co. and subsidiaries. It alleges that from about August 2012 Walgreens knowingly filled millions of controlled substance prescriptions that lacked a legitimate medical purpose, including excessive opioid quantities, early refills and the opioid, benzodiazepine and muscle relaxant combination known as the trinity. The complaint also alleges the company pressured pharmacists to fill prescriptions quickly. The government seeks civil penalties of up to $80,850 per violation, treble damages and injunctive relief. The claims are allegations.
“Walgreens knowingly filled millions of prescriptions for controlled substances that lacked a legitimate medical purpose”
Related Guidance
- 15 Red Flags of Drug Diversion — Behavioral and transactional indicators of diversion.
- Investigation Playbook — How to investigate suspected diversion inside an organization.