Board of Pharmacy Regulatory Activity - Change to run-dry requirement for automated counting devices

A public comment period is currently in progress to receive public comments on changes to run-dry requirements for automated counting devices. The purpose of the proposed regulatory action is modification or elimination of the current requirement in 18VAC110-20-355 regarding the requirement for bulk bins in an automated counting device to be "run dry" every 60 days. Comment on the requirement indicates that the 60-day requirement may be unnecessary and could be extended to six months or longer, or the "run dry" could be eliminated if concerns about expired or recalled drugs in the bins can be appropriately addressed. The goal of the amended regulation would be a requirement that protects the safety and efficacy of the drugs to be dispensed to patients in a manner that is reasonable and the least burdensome to pharmacies that use such devices.

A public comment period is open until April 25th to provide public feedback on the potential regulations

• Details on the petition can be found at: http://www.townhall.virginia.gov/L/viewstage.cfm?stageid=6094

To submit comments on the proposed regulations to the Virginia Board of Pharmacy, please visit: http://www.townhall.virginia.gov/L/entercomment.cfm?stageid=6094