The American supermarket giant Walmart must pay 3.1 billion dollars (about three billion euros) in damages. Background is a nationwide wave of lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies after countless people died as a result of opioid overdose.
The group concerned also operates pharmacies in its stores. The legal proceedings against him are now being stopped with a settlement. It was sought after by states and municipalities, among others. The agreed settlement includes numerous guidelines for “significant improvements in the way Walmart’s pharmacies handle opioids,” said New York State Attorney General Letitia James. Pharmacies have played an “undeniable role” in the “destruction” of opioids.
Walmart denies guilt
The $3.1 billion in damages is intended to help communities across the country “fight the opioid crisis,” a Walmart representative said. The decision, which has not yet been finalized, is not an admission of guilt.
About two weeks ago, the pharmacy chains CVS and Walgreens had already agreed to pay a total of ten billion dollars (about 9.7 billion euros) in damages. They want to bring ongoing procedures to a successful conclusion. For example, pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson paid 26 billion dollars last year (converted about 25 billion euros).
Over the past 20 years, more than half a million people have died of opioid overdose in the United States. This includes prescription painkillers, but also illegal drugs such as heroin. According to experts, the painkillers are prescribed too often. Manufacturers, wholesalers and pharmacies have been accused of aggressively advertising the drugs and failing to respond to warning signs of addiction.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
