DEA places carisoprodol (Soma™) into Schedule IV - Federal rule places carisoprodol into Schedule IV effective January 11, 2012.  While it currently remains in Schedule VI in Virginia, to comply with federal requirements pharmacists must perform an inventory of the drug as of January 11, 2012 and ensure prescriptions comply with all federal requirements regarding the dispensing of a Schedule IV drug, e.g., not to exceed 5 refills within a 6-month timeframe from the date of issuance.  For more information, contact DEA or refer to its website at http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/index.html 

New Requirement for Obtaining ACPE-approved Continuing Education - Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians must now obtain an NABP e-Profile ID in order to receive credit from ACPE-approved continuing education providers. Click here for background and instructions.

Information on prescription drug abuse and medication safety (AWARxE)

Department of Health Professions Names New Executive Director to the Board of Pharmacy
One of the Most Visible Health Professions Receives New Regulatory Staff Leadership

New Inspection Process
On July 1, 2011, the Board intends to end the pilot inspections and go live with the new inspection process in all pharmacies. Consistent with the past, routine inspections will be unannounced. Deficiencies cited by the inspector may lead to the issuance of an expedited consent order with monetary penalties. To learn more, click here to access newsletters that include articles about the new pharmacy inspection process.
FAQ's Associated with the New Inspection Process

Instructions for Obtaining a Pharmacist License through Examination or Reciprocity;
Study Guide (Examination Handbook) for Virginia Federal and State Drug Law Exam (Word .doc)

Buying medicine online -For information about buying medicine online, visit the Internet Pharmacies section of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy® (NABP®) Web site.
For more information:
Buying Medicine and Medical Products over the Internet from the FDA

Drug Disposal - How a consumer may properly dispose of unwanted prescription drugs.
Guidance from Office of National Drug Control Policy (pdf)
Campaign from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the American Pharmacists Association, and the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America
Guidance from the FDA

Drug Take-Back Programs - How to hold a successful prescription drug take-back event