How long must records for the sale of ephedrine and related substances be maintained?

The requirement to maintain records for the sale of ephedrine and related substances for 3 years aligns with both federal and state regulations governing controlled substances. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) stipulates that records regarding the sale and transfer of listed chemicals, like ephedrine, must be kept for at least three years. This timeframe allows for adequate oversight and compliance checks, given the potential misuse of such substances in the production of illegal drugs.

This period is critical for regulatory enforcement and helps ensure that pharmacists and distributors can demonstrate their compliance with substance tracking and reporting guidelines. The 3-year retention requirement supports transparency and accountability within the pharmacy profession concerning the handling of potentially abused substances.