When must a pharmacy conduct an inventory of controlled substances?

A pharmacy is required to conduct an inventory of controlled substances at specific intervals and under certain circumstances as outlined by regulatory guidelines. The correct answer indicates that an inventory must be conducted annually, as well as in the event of a change in ownership of the pharmacy or if specified by the Board of Pharmacy.

Annual inventories are necessary to ensure that all controlled substances are accounted for and to detect any discrepancies that may indicate misuse or diversion. The requirement for inventory during a change in ownership is crucial because it helps to establish a baseline record of controlled substances, which is necessary for the new owner to manage compliance with pharmacy regulations effectively. Additionally, the ability of the Board to specify other times for inventory emphasizes the importance of flexibility in oversight, allowing for additional checks as deemed necessary within a pharmacy’s operations.

In contrast, inventories conducted every month, only upon loss or theft, or biannually do not comply with the established legal requirements. Monthly inventories may be excessive for many pharmacies, while limiting inventory checks only to losses could lead to potential issues going unchecked. Likewise, biannual inventory checks may not meet the minimum regulatory requirements outlined by the Board. Thus, understanding the precise timing and conditions for conducting these inventories is essential for maintaining lawful and safe pharmacy operations.