How long must the biennial inventory of controlled substances be maintained on record?

The requirement to maintain the biennial inventory of controlled substances for two years aligns with federal regulations, specifically the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) guidelines. This rule is established to ensure that records are readily available for review, supporting compliance and effective oversight of controlled substance management within the pharmacy.

Keeping the inventory for two years allows regulatory bodies to verify compliance during inspections and audits, ensuring that pharmacies have accurately reported their controlled substance inventories and have adhered to laws concerning the handling of these substances. This retention period provides a sufficient timeframe for tracking usage trends, identifying discrepancies, and facilitating investigations if necessary.

While it’s essential for pharmacies to maintain a comprehensive set of records, including those pertaining to their operational activities, the specific guideline for the biennial inventory distinctly defines a two-year retention period to comply with legal expectations.