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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.


December 3, 2007

Dear Auburn customer,

As you may be aware, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will suspend our license to distribute controlled substances from our Auburn, Wash., pharmaceutical distribution center effective December 3. We are cooperating fully with the DEA in an effort to address the DEA's concerns and resolve the suspension.

The suspension affects only controlled substance shipments from our Auburn facility, and we are taking steps to meet your needs for these medications.
  • Washington customers: To provide continuity of service, we initially arranged for your controlled substances to be distributed from ParMed Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Cardinal Health. So that you can have access to a broader range of controlled substances, however, we are pleased to inform you that you will begin receiving controlled substances from the Cardinal Health distribution center located in Elk Grove, Calif., beginning Monday, December 10, 2007. To avoid disruption or delays in service, please continue to order products through ParMed until Monday.
  • Alaska, Idaho, Montana and Oregon customers: In order to provide continuity of service, we have arranged for your controlled substances to be distributed from our Elk Grove Cardinal Health distribution center. All other products will continue to be filled from the Auburn Distribution Center as normal.

Please note: Due to the suspension, it was confirmed today by the Seattle DEA that List 1 Chemicals cannot be distributed from the Auburn facility. All products containing Ephedrine, Pseudoephedrine and Iodine are not available in Auburn's inventory and should be obtained from alternate Cardinal Health locations. All other product orders will continue to be filled from the Auburn Distribution Center as normal.

We apologize for the inconvenience this situation creates. Cardinal Health is committed to providing a safe and secure pharmaceutical supply chain. We take these responsibilities very seriously, and work diligently to comply with all applicable laws and regulations governing distribution. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time.

Sincerely,

Cardinal Health

Note: This letter has been updated from the original version distributed to Auburn customers