Small-Town Pharmacy Closes After Legal Defeat in Controlled Substance Dispute

Van Buren's longstanding local pharmacy ceased operations after losing a legal battle with a major drug supplier. Manes' Pharmacy Inc., operating as Super-Sav Drug #3 for nearly four decades, faced a federal court ruling in favor of AmerisourceBergen Drug Corp., now known as Cencora Inc., which restricted its sales of controlled substances. The supplier cited concerns over prescription practices, including dispensing controlled medications for family, general practitioners, and in large quantities prescribed by dentists. Despite efforts to address these issues, AmerisourceBergen decided to limit its controlled substance sales to the pharmacy, leading to significant financial impacts and a decline in customer base, estimated at around 250 patrons. Although the pharmacy resumed some supplies by mid-2023, the damage was done. The court dismissed the case, emphasizing that the contract granted the supplier full discretion over sales, and therefore, the pharmacy's claims were unfounded. The pharmacy's owner, Mark Manes, expressed disappointment but stated he would not pursue an appeal, citing financial constraints. This case highlights the power imbalance between small-town pharmacies...