How often is an inventory of controlled substances required?

An inventory of controlled substances is required to be conducted biennially, which means every two years. This requirement is established under federal law as part of the regulations governing the handling of controlled substances. The biennial inventory helps ensure accurate tracking and accountability of these substances to prevent misuse and diversion. Conducting inventories at shorter intervals, like annually, quarterly, or monthly, is not required under the federal regulations, although some states may have additional rules regarding more frequent reporting or inventory management. Thus, biennial inventory serves as a standardized timeframe that balances the need for regulatory oversight with practical operational considerations for pharmacies and other entities handling controlled substances.