Grand Canyon Times

PHOENIX—Attorney General Kris Mayes today announced the final approval of national opioid agreements with drug makers Teva and Allergan and pharmacies CVS and Walgreens. Arizona’s share of the settlement with these companies totals over $380 million. Money is expected to start flowing to state and local governments by the end of 2023.
 

"These agreements mark a significant step forward in Arizona's efforts to combat the devastating effects of the opioid crisis on individuals, families, and communities across our state," said Attorney General Mayes. "While no amount of money can fully make up for the disastrous impact opioids have had on Arizonans, these dollars will play a crucial role in helping communities meet the needs of those suffering from this crisis.”

 

The settlements will also require Teva’s opioid business to provide significant injunctive relief that, among other things, will prevent all opioid marketing and ensure systems are in place to prevent drug misuse. Additionally, Allergan is required to stop selling opioids for the next ten years. CVS and Walgreens have agreed to injunctive relief that requires the pharmacies to monitor, report, and share data about suspicious activity related to opioid prescriptions.

 

Arizona settlement amounts by company:

•    Teva: $92.9 million

•    Allergan: $51.2 million

•    Walgreens: 123.3 million

•    CVS: $113.3 million

Arizona will receive the $380 million over 15 years. Approximately $213 million will be allocated to local governments throughout Arizona, with over $167 million allocated to state-level efforts.

 

National investigations and litigation against the pharmaceutical industry over the opioid crisis have led to more than $50 billion in settlement funds. Arizona’s total share is over $1.1 billion.

Original source can be found here.