Are You Required to Report Lost, Stolen Prescription Drugs?

Though you might get stolen marijuana back. We all know it's a pretty bad idea to call the cops to report stolen cocaine and other illegal drugs.

What you might not know is that prescription drugs can be just as tightly regulated as illegal narcotics. If you're just learning this now, then you might be wondering: Is it a good idea to report lost or stolen prescription drugs? And more importantly, are you required to by law?

Here's a look.

Purloined Prescriptions

Losing your medication, whether by theft or by accident, can be a huge hassle. Trying to replace medication can be difficult or impossible, depending on your situation. And while most jurisdictions don't require an individual with a prescription to report lost or stolen prescription drugs, a pharmacist might.

Because prescription drugs are tightly controlled by federal drug laws, pharmacists are (rightfully) wary of claims of missing medications, and therefore may not be willing to refill a prescription without a police report. So, if your medication is lost or stolen, you might need to report it in order to get a replacement prescription filled.

Drug Directions

Speaking of pharmacists, they are required to report lost or stolen drugs. Federal regulations require that pharmacists and their employers to notify the DEA Field Division Office in their area of any theft or significant loss of any controlled substance. Within one business day of discovery of such loss or theft, the pharmacy must complete and submit to a DEA Form 106, "Report of Theft or Loss of Controlled Substances" that identifies the manufacturer, name of the product, dosage form, dosage strength, and quantity missing.

Even if you're not a pharmacist, there are strict rules regarding prescription drugs, who may possess them, and who can have access to them. If you've had prescription drugs stolen, or are wondering what you need to do if you lose your medication, you may want to talk to an experienced drug attorney.

Related Resources:

• Find Drug Crime Lawyers Near You (FindLaw's Lawyer Directory)
• Is It Illegal to Share or Give Away Prescription Drugs? (FindLaw Blotter)
• Top 5 Prescription Drug Law Facts (FindLaw Blotter)
• Types of Prescription Drug Crimes (FindLaw Blotter)