Federal probe looks at volume of hydrocodone sold at Costco pharmacies
By Denny Walsh, The Sacramento Bee | |
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services |
Now, as an offshoot of that finding, the
Federal warrants were issued a week ago clearing the way for DEA agents to conduct administrative inspections and audits of
Affidavits supporting the agency's applications for the warrants say the
Based on that information and the fact the four other pharmacies have never been inspected by the DEA, "Investigators believe there will be numerous record keeping violations related to the receipt of controlled substances" found at the four locations, according to the affidavits, signed by
The company will likewise "continue to seek to maintain procedures to insure that controlled substances are accounted for and dispensed properly," Sullivan said.
The drug, normally used to control pain, plays a major role in the national epidemic of prescription drug abuse, according to an Internet fact sheet posted by the DEA. It says hydrocodone is the most frequently prescribed chemical derivative of opium in
Brands and generics marketed in this country are combination products. The fact sheet says that examples are hydrocodone and acetaminophen -- Vicodin; and hydrocodone and aspirin -- Lortab ASA.
It says that, used in doses slightly higher than those prescribed, hydrocodone induces euphoria and sedation and alters the perception of pain. Long-term use in higher amounts can lead to depressed respiration, dependence and addiction, the fact sheet says.
The DEA late last month announced its proposal to shift all hydrocodone combination products from the list of schedule III controlled substances to the schedule II list, based on "substantial evidence of high potential for abuse." The rescheduling will impose more stringent regulatory requirements on manufacturers, distributors, dispensers such as pharmacies and physicians, and importers and exporters.
In 2011, Jackson says in a affidavit relevant to the the
Comparisons for 2012 and 2013 showed similar results, according to the affidavit.
The
A reporter seeking comment at the facility was referred to
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