What type of inventory check is required for retail pharmacies regarding CII medications?

Retail pharmacies are required to conduct a quarterly inventory check for Schedule II (CII) controlled substances in accordance with federal and state regulations. This requirement is rooted in the importance of maintaining accurate records for substances that have a high potential for abuse and can lead to significant health risks if mismanaged.

A quarterly reconciliation helps to ensure that the pharmacy's records match the actual quantities of CII medications on hand. This process serves as an essential control measure to prevent diversion, theft, and misappropriation of these drugs. Regular inventory checks allow pharmacies to identify discrepancies in their records promptly, thereby enabling timely corrective actions.

Maintaining rigorous inventory accountability is not only a regulatory obligation but also a best practice for safeguarding public health and maintaining the integrity of the pharmacy's operations. This diligence helps ensure that controlled substances are tracked closely and that any issues are swiftly addressed. Other options either do not meet the required frequency or are not mandated, which emphasizes the critical nature of the quarterly checks for CII medications.