Can mail order pharmacies send controlled substances

In the United States, mail-order pharmacies are subject to the same regulations as traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies when it comes to dispensing controlled substances. However, there are some additional considerations and requirements that mail-order pharmacies must follow.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulates the dispensing of controlled substances, including those that are shipped through the mail. To dispense controlled substances, a mail-order pharmacy must:

1. Be registered with the DEA: Mail-order pharmacies must register with the DEA and obtain a DEA registration number, which is required to dispense controlled substances.
2. Meet state and federal requirements: Mail-order pharmacies must comply with state and federal laws and regulations regarding the dispensing of controlled substances.
3. Verify patient information: Mail-order pharmacies must verify the patient's identity and ensure that they are authorized to receive the controlled substance.
4. Use secure shipping methods: Mail-order pharmacies must use secure shipping methods to ensure that controlled substances are not diverted or tampered with during transit.
5. Maintain records: Mail-order pharmacies must maintain accurate and complete records of controlled substance dispensing, including patient information, prescription information, and shipping records.

Some examples of controlled substances that may be dispensed by mail-order pharmacies include:

• Schedule II controlled substances, such as opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone
• Schedule III controlled substances, such as anabolic steroids and ketamine
• Schedule IV controlled substances, such as benzodiazepines like alprazolam and clonazepam
• Schedule V controlled substances, such as cough suppressants like codeine and promethazine

However, some controlled substances may not be eligible for mail-order dispensing, such as:

• Schedule I controlled substances, such as heroin and LSD
• Controlled substances that require a physical examination or medical evaluation before dispensing
• Controlled substances that are subject to specific packaging and labeling requirements

It's important to note that mail-order pharmacies must also comply with the requirements of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and the Prescription Drug Marketing Act (PDMA), which regulate the distribution and dispensing of controlled substances.

In summary, mail-order pharmacies can send controlled substances, but they must follow strict regulations and guidelines to ensure that these substances are dispensed safely and securely.