When a pharmacy submits a DEA Form 222 to purchase Schedule II controlled substances, who retains the original copy?

When a pharmacy submits a DEA Form 222 to purchase Schedule II controlled substances, the supplier retains the original copy of the form. This is important for record-keeping and regulatory compliance. The supplier must keep the original form on file for at least two years, as mandated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulations.

This process ensures that there is a clear chain of custody and accountability regarding the distribution of Schedule II substances, which are highly regulated due to their potential for abuse and dependence. The pharmacy should keep a copy of the form for their records, which is why the pharmacy cannot be the correct answer. Similarly, the DEA and state boards do not retain the original form as their role is to oversee and regulate rather than participate directly in the ordering process. Thus, the supplier's retention of the original form helps both parties maintain accurate records for future audits and investigations related to controlled substances.