Prescriptions Plus Pharmacy in Lebanon Closes After 45 Years

LEBANON – Prescriptions Plus Pharmacy, a long-standing pillar for pharmaceutical needs in the Lebanon community, permanently closed its doors on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Located inside of Lebanon’s Ace Hardware, this closure marks the end of an era. The closure comes as owners Lou and Jackie Schlaefer officially retire, bringing an end to 45 years of continuous service to Lebanon and the surrounding area.

Founded in March of 1979, Prescriptions Plus has served generations of customers, growing from a small operation into a trusted name in local pharmacy care. The business opened its first dedicated building in 1981 across from Dr. Jazz soda shop, and in 1995, relocated to its current location, where a True Value Hardware was also added.

Over the years, Prescriptions Plus became known not just for prescription services but for its focus on compounding and nutritional care. Compounding for pets became a specialty, accounting for the majority of custom prescriptions filled at the pharmacy. The store also maintained one of the metro-east’s largest selections of vitamins, minerals, herbs, and homeopathic products, carrying well-known brands such as Ortho Molecular, Solgar, Boiron, and others.

The pharmacy also played a role in the professional development of many future pharmacists. Eight local students began working at Prescriptions Plus after high school and continued through pharmacy school, returning on weekends and school breaks before earning their degrees.

As the pharmacy industry evolved, Prescriptions Plus adapted to meet those changes, shifting from a primarily dispensing model to one focused on specialized services and health information.

Current staff members include pharmacist Kristen Wheeler and certified technicians Rebecca Griesbaum, Madison Peters, and Erin, all of whom continued to serve customers with professionalism and care in the pharmacy’s final chapter.

In a letter to customers dated June 8, Lou wrote, “The town has been so very good to me and my family.” He noted that after turning 75 in November, he and Jackie made the decision to step back and begin retirement. He wanted to clarify that the closing is not due to financial issues, but that Lou would like to spend time with his family.

Following the closure, all prescription records will be transferred to CVS Pharmacy at 907 E Highway 50 in O’Fallon. According to Lou, CVS offers extended hours, online ordering, automated pickup, and broad insurance coverage. Customers can also access medication synchronization through CVS’s Script Sync program.

In his message, Lou extended his appreciation to the pharmacy’s staff and to the customers who supported the business through the years. “We will greatly miss the daily interaction with all of you,” he wrote.