What must happen to all drugs during the pharmacy closing process?

During the pharmacy closing process, all drugs must be transferred to a licensed pharmacy. This requirement ensures that all medications are properly accounted for and remain within the controlled environment of licensed entities. The legal framework surrounding the handling of pharmaceuticals emphasizes the importance of safeguarding public health and ensuring that medications do not enter the hands of unqualified individuals or become wasted.

Transferring medications to a licensed pharmacy allows for continued patient care while adhering to state and federal regulations. This practice helps maintain the integrity of the drug supply system and ensures that drugs are only accessible to those who are authorized to dispense or utilize them.

Other options, such as discarding drugs, distributing them to staff, or donating them to charities, do not comply with the stringent regulatory standards governing pharmaceutical practices, which are designed to protect patients and the community from potential harm or misuse of medications.