How quickly must a pharmacy report a theft or significant loss of controlled substances to the DEA?

The correct timeframe for reporting a theft or significant loss of controlled substances to the DEA is within one business day. This requirement ensures that the DEA can promptly investigate any incidents of theft or loss, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the Controlled Substances Act. The one business day timeframe emphasizes the urgency in addressing and mitigating potential illegal activities surrounding controlled substances.

Understanding this requirement is important for pharmacies to uphold compliance with federal regulations, as timely reporting helps prevent further loss and aids the DEA in tracking and possibly preventing future occurrences. The other timeframes presented, such as 24 hours, 48 hours, or 3 business days, do not align with the DEA's regulations, which specifically mandate the one business day reporting for significant thefts or losses.