DEA Finalizes Rule on Controlled Substance Prescription Drug Disposal

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has published its Final Rule on Disposal of Controlled Substances, allowing some DEA registrants to modify their registration to become authorized collectors. The Final Rule implements the Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010, which authorized DEA to develop and implement regulations that would allow authorized entities other than law enforcement to collect unused and unwanted prescription drugs, including controlled substances, for disposal purposes, a DEA press release notes. Under the new rule, some DEA registrants, including manufacturers, distributors, reverse distributors, narcotic treatment programs, retail pharmacies, and hospitals/clinics with an on-site pharmacy, may modify their registration with DEA to become authorized collectors. Proper disposal of unused prescription medication is a key method of preventing and reducing prescription drug abuse. The Final Rule will take effect on October 9, 2014.