What action must a pharmacy take in the event of a theft of controlled substances?

In the event of a theft of controlled substances, a pharmacy is required to immediately report the incident to both law enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This action is vital because it helps ensure that the theft is duly investigated by law enforcement and that the DEA is aware of the potential diversion of controlled substances. Prompt reporting is not only a regulatory requirement but also serves to protect public safety by ensuring that stolen medications do not pose a risk to the community.

Additionally, following the proper protocols can help the pharmacy avoid potential legal repercussions, as failing to report a theft can lead to significant penalties. The reporting process typically involves submitting the appropriate forms, such as DEA Form 106, which specifically addresses theft or loss of controlled substances.

In contrast, notifying only the manufacturer ignores regulatory requirements and does not address the public safety aspect of the theft. Hiding the loss until inventory is reconciled is unethical and illegal, as it circumvents the responsibility to report criminal activity. Reordering stolen medications without any report would be reckless, allowing for the potential resale of the stolen items without accountability. Thus, the correct action is to immediately report the theft to both law enforcement and the DEA.