What is the outcome if a DEA number is not consistent with its validation criteria?

A DEA number that does not meet its validation criteria is deemed invalid. DEA numbers are assigned to healthcare professionals and are required for the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances. Each DEA number consists of a unique combination of letters and numbers that follow a specific formula for validation.

The validation process involves checking the first letter of the DEA number, which indicates the type of registrant (for example, an 'A' is for a physician and 'B' is for a pharmacy), and then performing a mathematical check on the last digit, which is a check digit derived from the preceding numbers. If any part of the validation criteria is not satisfied, the DEA number is automatically considered invalid, thereby preventing any legitimate prescribing or dispensing activities associated with it.

This validation ensures that only authorized and legitimate healthcare providers can prescribe controlled substances, thereby safeguarding public health and administering appropriate regulatory practices in pharmacy.