Outdated products found in a pharmacy should be:

Outdated (expired) medicationsmust not be dispensedand should bequarantinedin a separate area to prevent accidental use.

Remove outdated products from active stock immediately.

Label and store them separatelyuntil proper disposal.

Follow DEA, FDA, and state board guidelines for disposal.

Some medications (e.g., controlled substances) require special disposal procedures.

(A) Shipped to the DEA for disposal❌Incorrect – Only controlled substances require DEA disposal (viaReverse Distributor).

(B) Kept on the shelf to be dispensed first❌Incorrect – Expired medications should NEVER be dispensed.

(C) Isolated from active dispensing stock✅Correct – Medications must be separated from usable stock to prevent dispensing errors.

(D) Reported to the ISMP for tracking❌Incorrect – ISMP (Institute for Safe Medication Practices) monitors medication errors, not expiration management.

FDA Drug Disposal Guidelines: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/disposal-unused-medicines

DEA Controlled Substance Disposal Regulations: https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov

PTCB Exam Content Outline – Inventory Management & Drug Disposal

Pharmacy Technician Guidelines for Handling Expired Medications:Analysis of Answer Choices:References for Pharmacy Technicians: