At what quantity does an internet pharmacy have reporting responsibilities for controlled substances?

An internet pharmacy has reporting responsibilities for controlled substances when they reach either 100 prescriptions a month or 5,000 units of controlled substances in a month. This requirement is set to ensure proper oversight and monitoring of the distribution of controlled substances, as internet pharmacies are subject to specific regulatory scrutiny to prevent abuse and illegal distribution.

The threshold of 100 prescriptions or 5,000 units is established to catch pharmacies that may be dispensing a significant amount of controlled substances, which could increase the risk of prescription drug abuse or distribution outside of legal frameworks. By setting this dual threshold, regulators can effectively track and manage the flow of controlled substances through internet pharmacies, providing a balance between addressing legitimate medical needs and mitigating potential misuse.

Reaching this quantity activates reporting obligations, compelling internet pharmacies to maintain accurate records and submit reports to the appropriate regulatory authorities, which helps to uphold public health and safety.