Action Taken Against Kentucky Pharmacist’s License

A Kentucky pharmacy, Med Save Pharmacy, and its owner and pharmacist-in-charge, J. Drane Stephens, are under scrutiny following the hospitalization of three children who received compounded prescriptions from the pharmacy. The Kentucky Board of Pharmacy was notified of a potential issue after three children were hospitalized after taking drugs compounded under Stephens’ supervision. Shortly after, a series of disciplinary actions was taken against the pharmacist and his license.

If you’re a pharmacist or other licensed professional facing allegations of misconduct, you need to do everything in your power to protect your license. You’ve put in countless hours and likely tens of thousands of dollars to get where you are, whether that’s a pharmacy, hospital, courtroom, or elsewhere; your license is crucial. At the LLF National Law Firm, we fight for licensed professionals whose licensure or certification is on the line. Learn more about how we can help you by calling 888-535-3686 or using our online form.

Misconduct at Med Save Pharmacy

Immediately following reports of the children’s hospitalization, the Board opened an investigation. It was quickly found that the children had faced serious complications related to the pharmacy’s misbranding and adulterated clonidine (a medication traditionally used to treat high blood pressure and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)). The Board then issued an emergency order preventing the pharmacy from continuing to compound medications.

Through its subsequent investigation, the Board found numerous violations of Kentucky state pharmacy laws. Stephens was quickly accused of violating these laws relating to documentation, training, and quality control. The allegations included incorrectly compounding the clonidine using an active pharmaceutical ingredient, failing to train and supervise compounding staff, and failing to have basic documentation of compounding processes on file.

The Kentucky Board of Pharmacy Disciplinary Action

After conducting a full investigation, the Board’s Case Review Panel decided to pursue formal disciplinary action against Stephens. In negotiations with the Board, Stephens stipulated to the facts and conclusions of the investigation; this means that he agreed that the facts of his case and the conclusions of the Board are correct. This is a decision he presumably didn’t take lightly. At the LLF National Law Firm, we advise our clients based on the facts of their case and our experience presenting similar cases before pharmacy boards.

Stephens voluntarily agreed to surrender his Kentucky pharmacy license. He was also required to pay a small fine covering the cost of the Board’s investigation.

When a Kentucky pharmacist surrenders their license, the process of getting it back is complicated. If Stephens wants to pursue licensure again, he will need to submit a formal petition for reinstatement of his license. The Board will then reevaluate Stephens’ ability to safely and competently practice. There is certainly no guarantee the Board will be willing to take such action.

Dealing with Allegations Against Your Pharmacist License

Being responsible for the health and well-being of patients is a high-stress job, one which we know you take seriously. You know, perhaps better than anyone else, how serious a mistake can be. Whether the allegations against you are a result of a mistake, misunderstanding, or any other situation, the LLF National Law Firm is in your corner. Our top priority is getting the best possible outcome to protect you and your license. If you’re a pharmacist or other licensed professional in trouble, contact our Professional License Defense Team today at 888-535-3686 or online.