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Controlled substance shipments alert

Cardinal Health has communicated the following updates directly to customers concerning our suspension of controlled substance shipments from certain Cardinal Health facilities.

Cardinal Health has been reviewing its controlled-substance ordering procedures, and as a result is implementing near- and long-term enhancements that further guard against distribution to pharmacies that are engaged in diversion. The safety of the pharmaceutical supply chain is among Cardinal Health's top priorities and we are committed to the highest standards as we work with the DEA to resolve this matter.


October 3, 2008

Dear Lakeland customer,

We are pleased to tell you that we have signed settlement agreements with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and several US Attorneys’ Offices to resolve outstanding allegations regarding our controls against the diversion of controlled substances, including the restoration of our license to sell and ship controlled substances from our Lakeland, FL facility. We expect to begin distribution of controlled substances effective Monday, November 3, from Lakeland.

The settlement is the result of our collaboration with DEA as well as our enhancement of our controls to help prevent the diversion of these important medications so they don’t get into the wrong hands.

Between now and November 3, we will be working on the logistics to be ready for the first day of shipping controlled substances from Lakeland. We remain committed to fighting the serious issue of prescription drug abuse and diversion, and appreciate your patience and support.

Here are important dates you need to know:
  • Due to system maintenance, all customer orders must be placed by cut-off on Thursday, October 30. Orders placed after cut-off will queue and drop once the systems are restored.
  • Customers should begin ordering controlled substances using their Lakeland account number beginning Friday, October 31. Cardinalhealth.com and CSOS will not be available until noon on Sunday, November 2.
  • There is some configuration in CSOS that needs to take place. Our Enterprise IT group will work with customers throughout the day on Friday, October 31. This configuration must be completed before placing orders.
  • The first shipment containing controlled substances will leave Lakeland on November 3.

We will continue processing all controlled substances returns through our Atlanta distribution center. Customers can contact Customer Service for assistance with all controlled substance returns. We will generate return authorizations and arrange for the appropriate transfers and credits.

Sincerely,

Cardinal Health