How long do pharmacists have to dispose of outdated drugs compared to wholesalers?

Pharmacists are required to dispose of outdated drugs within one year of the expiration date, which ensures that patients do not receive medications that are no longer deemed safe or effective. This practice is aligned with the goal of maintaining safe pharmacy operations and ensuring patient safety.

On the other hand, wholesalers have a slightly longer window, as they are given two years to dispose of expired drugs. This extended timeframe helps wholesalers manage their inventory and allows them to handle products that may not be sold quickly.

Therefore, the distinction in timeframes between pharmacists and wholesalers—one year for pharmacists and two years for wholesalers—highlights the differences in responsibility and operational timelines within the pharmacy supply chain. Thus, if pharmacists must act within one year while wholesalers have two years, the correct answer reflects this specific regulatory framework.