How long must a pharmacy keep its records of controlled substance refills?

In the context of Iowa pharmacy law, pharmacies are required to maintain records of controlled substance refills for a minimum of two years from the date of dispensing. This duration is established to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, providing an adequate timeframe for audits and inspections by authorities. Keeping these records for two years facilitates the monitoring of potential misuse, diversion, and ensures accurate documentation for patient care and legal accountability.

The two-year retention period aligns with the federal regulations under the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which also stipulates a similar timeframe for the retention of prescription records for controlled substances. By adhering to these retention requirements, pharmacies can effectively manage their responsibilities in safeguarding public health and maintaining their legal obligations.