How long must a pharmacy maintain records of dispensed controlled substances?

Pharmacies are required to maintain records of dispensed controlled substances for a period of five years. This regulation is primarily guided by federal law as well as state laws, which aim to ensure proper accountability and tracking of controlled substances. This five-year period ensures that adequate information is available for audits, investigations, and compliance checks by regulatory authorities.

Maintaining these records helps in monitoring the flow of controlled substances, preventing misuse and ensuring they are dispensed in accordance with the law. This period aligns with many state pharmacy boards and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) guidelines, reinforcing the importance of keeping such records for a significant time to uphold public safety.