Walmart will pay the state of Florida $215 million as part of a settlement deal to satisfy charges that its pharmacies contributed to the state's opioid problem.
The Attorney general stated that as part of the settlement, Walmart has agreed to provide 672,000 naloxone kits to first responders for a period of ten years. Naloxone is a life-saving opioid overdose reversal medicine.
Walmart denies each and every claim and allegation of misconduct, according to the settlement. However, according to the settlement, the state filed cases against other big chain pharmacies questioning their prescription opioid drug practises, but not against Walmart.
The attorney general even expressed gratitude to Walmart for stepping forward and committing to collaborate with the state to supply much-needed naloxone to law enforcement and first responders. It will significantly aid in the goal of ending the opioid crisis and saving lives.
According to the settlement, a study discovered that Walmart's percentage of opioids disseminated and dispensed in Florida was far lower than the other large chain pharmacies. According to a Walmart spokesperson, this collaboration is the next step in Walmart's commitment to combating the opioid problem.
Through settlements with other opioid makers, distributors, and dealers, the state has collected $3.2 billion in legal action to aid in the battle against the problem. They have all denied any wrongdoing.
Settlements with Teva, CVS Health Corp., CVS Pharmacy Inc., and Allergan PLC were part of an $870 million agreement. Following a four-week trial in Pasco County, Walgreens agreed to pay Florida a $683 million settlement in May.
In addition, the attorney general announced a $65 million settlement with Endo Pharmaceuticals and a $40 million settlement with global consulting firm McKinsey & Co.
