What action must a pharmacy take if it sells controlled substances but has not become a wholesaler?

A pharmacy that sells controlled substances but has not registered as a wholesaler must notify the DEA. This requirement stems from regulatory guidelines that aim to monitor and control the distribution of controlled substances. If a pharmacy exceeds certain thresholds in its sales of controlled substances, it may inadvertently be acting as a wholesaler, which requires a separate registration with the DEA.

By notifying the DEA, the pharmacy allows the agency to understand its operations and ensure compliance with federal regulations regarding the distribution of controlled substances. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the drug distribution system and ensuring that controlled substances are dispensed and distributed lawfully.

The other options, while pertinent to various aspects of pharmacy operations, do not directly address the specific action required in this scenario. Preparing an annual report, limiting sales to a certain percentage, or filing for a new license are actions that may pertain to different regulatory requirements or operational practices but do not fulfill the immediate legal obligation to notify the DEA of its sales activity related to controlled substances.