Kentucky has launched a legal battle against Express Scripts, a prominent pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), accusing the company of exacerbating the state’s opioid crisis. Attorney General Russell Coleman filed the lawsuit asserting that Express Scripts played a central role in the opioid distribution chain, allegedly collaborating with manufacturers to employ deceptive marketing strategies that boosted opioid sales. The complaint highlights that Express Scripts ignored clear evidence of addiction and misuse found within its claims data, prioritising profits over public health. Kentucky, which has been severely affected by the opioid epidemic, recorded nearly 2,000 overdose deaths last year alone. The lawsuit seeks accountability for the company’s alleged contribution to the crisis.

Express Scripts, however, refutes the allegations, stating its commitment to working with health plan sponsors nationwide and declaring its intention to contest the claims in court. The lawsuit comes amidst increasing scrutiny of PBMs, powerful intermediaries in the pharmaceutical supply chain responsible for negotiating drug prices and access. This legal action aligns with a similar lawsuit filed by Arkansas against Express Scripts and Optum, focusing on the role of PBMs in the proliferation of opioid abuse. Kentucky’s lawsuit demands $2,000 for each violation of the state’s Consumer Protection Act, as part of a broader effort to hold PBMs accountable for their impact on public health. For more information, visit The Hill.