Definition and Registration of Reverse Distributors

DEA is finalizing, without change, the interim rule with Request for Comment published in the Federal Register July 11, 2003 at 68 FR 41222. The interim final rule amended Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations, parts 1300, 1301, 1304, 1305 and 1307 to define the term "reverse distributor" and establish a new category of registration for persons handling controlled substances. The amendments established the regulatory standards under which reverse distributors may handle unwanted, unusable, or outdated controlled substances acquired from another DEA registrant. These standards ensure the proper documentation and recordkeeping necessary to prevent diversion of such controlled substances to illegal purposes. This final rule makes these changes permanent.