What is the requirement for CIII-CV prescriptions during inventory?

The requirement for counting CIII-CV prescriptions during inventory allows for an estimation, but this is contingent on the size of the containers in which they are held. For controlled substances classified as Schedule III, IV, and V, the regulations state that these substances may be estimated in quantity during an inventory count unless they are held in large containers; in such cases, an exact count is necessary.

This flexibility in counting allows for practicality in inventory management, especially in situations where the volume of smaller tablets or capsules may be cumbersome to count one by one. However, any controlled substances stored in larger containers must be accurately accounted for to ensure compliance with regulatory expectations and to maintain accountability and safety in medication management. This standard is designed to balance efficiency with the need for precise control over potentially addictive substances, reflecting the importance of thorough inventory practices in pharmacy operations.