How long do pharmacies have to maintain a tracking system for Sudafed after implementation?

Pharmacies are required to maintain a tracking system for the sale of Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) to monitor its distribution effectively as part of efforts to prevent misuse for the production of methamphetamine. The regulations stipulate that pharmacies must keep records of these transactions for a minimum duration of 12 months after the implementation of the tracking system. This 12-month requirement ensures that pharmacy authorities can review sales data to identify patterns or anomalies that may indicate illegal activity, while also balancing the need for pharmacies to have manageable recordkeeping procedures. Maintaining these records for a shorter period than 12 months would not provide sufficient oversight, while requiring longer retention might create unnecessary burdens on pharmacies. This regulation reflects a proactive approach to substance control in the pharmacy sector.