How frequently should out-of-date drugs be removed from retail pharmacies?

Removing out-of-date drugs from retail pharmacies every 6 months is critical for ensuring patient safety and maintaining the integrity of the pharmacy's inventory. The rationale behind this frequency is to minimize the risk of dispensing medications that are no longer effective or could potentially be harmful due to degradation over time. Regular inventory checks help pharmacists identify expired products, reducing the likelihood of patients receiving medications that may have lost potency or could lead to adverse effects. This practice aligns with the standards set by pharmaceutical regulations and helps maintain compliance with state laws regarding pharmacy operations. Also, a systematic approach to monitoring expiration dates ensures that the pharmacy can operate efficiently, providing safe and effective medications to patients.