Rhode Island-based CVS Pharmacy and related entities have agreed to pay $315 million to resolve federal allegations involving unlawful prescriptions for opioids and other controlled substances and claims submitted to federal health programs, the Justice Department announced Oct. 13.

The settlement covers conduct from Oct. 17, 2013, through Dec. 2, 2025. The government alleged that CVS dispensed excessive quantities of opioids, filled prescriptions too early and sought federal reimbursement for invalid prescriptions.

CVS denies the allegations in the signed settlement agreements, which state that the settlement does not establish legal responsibility. The payment includes $189 million under the False Claims Act, which addresses improper government-payment claims, and $126 million under the Controlled Substances Act, which governs drug dispensing.

A separate agreement with the Drug Enforcement Administration requires steps including a hotline for employees and the public to report suspected unlawful dispensing, monitoring prescription patterns and reviewing prescribers.

A former employee brought a whistleblower lawsuit connected to the case. Her share of the recovery had not been determined, according to the announcement.

Sources

Justice Department settlement announcement

Controlled Substances Act settlement

False Claims Act settlement