CVS and Walgreens agree to pay $10 billion to settle lawsuits linked to opioid sales

CVS would pay nearly $5 billion over 10 years, while Walgreens would pay $5.7 billion over 15 years, in a settlement over their roles in the opioid crisis. (Keith Srakocic/AP)

Keith Srakocic / Keith Srakocic

CVS and Walgreens have agreed to pay more than $10 billion to several states in a settlement of lawsuits brought against them alleging their roles in the opioid crisis.

CVS would pay nearly $5 billion over 10 years, while Walgreens would pay $5.7 billion over 15 years, according to statements released by state attorneys general.

“As one of the largest pharmacy chains in the nation, we remain committed to being a part of the solution, and this settlement framework will allow us to keep our focus on the health and wellbeing of our customers and patients, while making positive contributions to address the opioid crisis,” Walgreens said in a November statement.