City of Philadelphia Files Lawsuit Against Pharmacy Benefit Managers Including CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and Optum

Philadelphia has filed a lawsuit against the three largest Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), alleging they played a significant role in perpetuating the opioid crisis through misleading marketing and overdistribution of opioids. The PBMs, which manage prescription drug benefits for over 200 million lives, reportedly collaborated with opioid manufacturers to enhance sales while misrepresenting their commitment to safety. Despite acknowledging the opioid epidemic, the PBMs continued to encourage liberal prescribing practices, contributing to widespread addiction. Mayor Cherelle L. Parker stated that the lawsuit aims to hold these companies accountable for prioritizing profits over the health of residents.

The city is pursuing compensatory and punitive damages as well as an injunction for corrective actions to address the crisis. Renee Garcia, the City Solicitor, criticized the PBMs for rejecting safeguards that could have prevented overprescription. The impact of the opioid epidemic has varied across neighborhoods, with some areas suffering more visibly than others. This lawsuit reflects Philadelphia's efforts to combat the ongoing public health implications of opioid addiction.