How long must a pharmacy maintain records of dispensed biologic products?

In the context of pharmacy practice, maintaining records of dispensed biologic products is crucial for ensuring patient safety, complying with regulatory requirements, and allowing for traceability of these medications. The appropriate retention period for records is often dictated by state regulations and best practices in pharmacy.

In many jurisdictions, including Alaska, the requirement to maintain records for a period of 2 years after the date of dispensing aligns with the standards set by various pharmacy boards and federal regulations. This duration allows for the proper tracking of biologic products, including important information regarding administration, adverse events, and recalls. It also ensures that pharmacies can respond adequately to inquiries from health care providers or regulatory bodies.

The choice of 2 years not only reflects a balance of practicality and regulatory compliance but also acknowledges the nature of biologics, which may have particular tracking requirements due to their complexity and the need for thorough patient follow-up. By retaining these records for this specified duration, pharmacies protect themselves and their patients by ensuring that vital information is available if needed for future reference or investigations.