Medicine Chest Pharmacy in Fresno will pay $27,500 to resolve allegations that it improperly dispensed prescription drugs and committed record-keeping violations.
U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced the settlement in a news release Tuesday.

Owner Agrees not to Operate Any Pharmacy for Five Years

In addition to the $27,500 payment, the Medicine Chest owner agreed to divest from the pharmacy and not own or operate any pharmacy for five years, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said.
“Accurate recordkeeping is an important part of the accountability chain in the distribution of controlled prescription drugs. When that chain is broken, it opens the door to the diversion of potentially addictive pharmaceuticals,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Daniel C. Comeaux.
“DEA will continue to pursue those who do not carry out their due diligence, as required by law, to ensure compliance with the Controlled Substances Act.”

Examples of Schedule III and IV Drugs

The allegations against the pharmacy involved Schedule III and IV drugs.
Schedule III drugs commonly prescribed include those containing less than 90 milligrams of codeine per dosage, ketamine, anabolic steroids, and testosterone. Examples of Schedule IV drugs include Xanax, Soma, Darvon, Darvocet, Valium, Ativan, Ambien, and Tramadol.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey D. Wilson handled the case.