What distinguishes the DEA 224a Form from the DEA 224 Form?

The DEA 224a Form is specifically designated for the renewal of a controlled substances registration. This form is utilized by practitioners, pharmacies, and health care institutions that need to maintain their authorization to prescribe, dispense, or conduct other activities involving controlled substances.

The distinction between the DEA 224 and DEA 224a forms lies in their intended purposes. The DEA 224 Form is used for initial registrations, allowing new entities to apply for the ability to handle controlled substances. In contrast, the DEA 224a Form is a streamlined process that allows those already registered to renew their existing registrations without the need to go through the full initial registration process again.

This renewal process ensures that practitioners and institutions continue to comply with federal regulations while minimizing disruption in their practice or services related to controlled substances.