How long must prescription records be maintained according to federal law?

Under federal law, prescription records must be maintained for a minimum of two years from the date of dispensing. This requirement ensures that there is a reliable way to track medication use and adherence. The two-year period is aligned with the recommendations set forth by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for controlled substances, which emphasizes the importance of having access to these records for potential audits, compliance checks, and patient safety evaluations.

Maintaining records for this duration allows healthcare providers to review past prescriptions, assist patients in managing their medications effectively, and provide necessary information in the event of any adverse reactions or interactions. In addition, this timeframe supports law enforcement and regulatory bodies in their efforts to monitor and prevent drug diversion and abuse.