What action must be taken with controlled substances in a retail pharmacy that are to be destroyed?

In the context of managing controlled substances that are to be destroyed in a retail pharmacy, it is crucial to follow the regulatory requirements set forth by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as well as state regulations, which in New York also involves the Department of Health (DOH). When a pharmacy needs to dispose of controlled substances, it must maintain an accurate inventory of these substances and formally request permission for destruction.

Having an inventory is essential for tracking medications throughout their lifecycle, providing a clear record of all controlled substances handled by the pharmacy. This documentation not only ensures accountability but is also crucial in case of audits or inspections. Additionally, obtaining permission from the DOH serves to comply with legal and regulatory obligations, ensuring that the destruction process is conducted in accordance with established protocols to prevent misuse or diversion of these substances.

The other options are not aligned with the requisite legal procedures. Contacting the manufacturer or writing a report to the FDA does not pertain to the destruction process of controlled substances in pharmacies, while destroying them without documentation significantly increases the risk of regulations being violated and diminishes accountability. In summary, the proper course of action for a pharmacy is to keep an inventory and obtain authorization from the appropriate health authority before proceeding with the disposal of controlled substances.