Rhode Island Department of Health

Frequently Asked Questions about the Closing of Prime Drug, Inc. (05/06/08)

What happened at Prime Drug, Inc.?
As of May 6, 2008, the Department of Health (HEALTH) ordered Prime Drugs, Inc., located at 613 Cranston St., Providence to close. The pharmacy is under investigation by the federal government. All prescription medication at Prime Drug was seized by federal authorities.

Can I continue to take prescription medications that I got from Prime Drug?
No. The prescription medicine could be the wrong dose, expired or it may not have been stored at safe temperatures. Even if the medicine does not look, smell or taste different, it should still be thrown away.

What should I do if I have unused medicine from Prime Drug?
If you have any unused prescription medicines from Prime Drug, crush them and throw them away. Pour liquid medicines into the trash.  Do not flush unused medicines. Keep the empty bottle so you will have prescription information that is on the label.

What should I do if I have a prescription medication from Prime Drug or if I need to get a refill?
You need to get a new prescription. There are three ways you can do that. Choose the way that is easiest for you:

1. Call another pharmacy in Rhode Island with your prescription information so the pharmacist can call your doctor. You must provide the following:
1. Your name, address, and telephone number
2. Your date of birth
3. Any allergies you have to medications
4. The name of the medicine you are taking and the directions on the bottle label
5. Name and telephone number of the doctor who prescribed it.

OR

2. Take your prescription bottle to another pharmacy in Rhode Island so the pharmacist can call your doctor;

OR

3. Call your doctor for a new prescription, which can be called in to a new pharmacy of your choice. You will need the new pharmacy’s name and phone number.

I have recently received my month’s supply of my prescription that is covered by my health insurance. Will my health insurance cover a replacement prescription?
HEALTH is working with insurers and pharmacies to answer questions about insurance coverage for replacement prescriptions. Medicaid have already agreed to approve early refills and replacement prescriptions. For updated information, call the Department of Health Information Line at 1-800-942-7434. The Information Line is staffed with bi-lingual individuals, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.