What’s the DEA’s definition of disposal of Pharmaceutical Wastage?

Excerpt per DEA regulations (e.g., § 1304.22(c) Final Rule – “controlled substance dispensed for immediate administration pursuant to an order for medication in an institutional setting remains under the custody and control of that registered institution even if the substance is not fully exhausted (e.g., some of the substance remains in a vial, tube, transdermal patch, or syringe after administration but cannot or may not be further utilized, commonly referred to as ‘drug wastage’ and ‘pharmaceutical wastage’). Such remaining substance must be properly recorded, stored, and destroyed in accordance with DEA regulations (e.g., § 1304.22(c)), and all applicable federal, state, tribal, and local laws and regulations, although the destruction need not be recorded on a DEA Form 41.”

Should you have any questions pertaining to this matter, please contact your local DEA field office. You may also contact the DEA Office of Diversion Control, Liaison and Policy Section, at (202) 307-7297.