What form is used to request permission from the DEA to destroy controlled substances?

• A. DEA Form 106
• B. DEA Form 41
• C. DEA Form 224
• D. DEA Form 222

Answer: (B)

When a DEA registered facility needs to dispose of controlled substances, it must obtain authorization from the DEA before destruction. The form used for this is DEA Form 41, the Authorization of Disposal of Controlled Substances. This form specifies exactly which substances will be destroyed, their quantities, the proposed method of disposal, and the individuals who will witness the destruction. Submitting it to the DEA prompts the agency to review and approve the disposal plan, ensuring the process complies with regulatory requirements and helps prevent diversion. After approval, the destruction is carried out by an approved method (often with a DEA-registered contractor or reverse distributor) and the disposal is documented as part of the facility’s records.

The other forms serve different purposes: the form for reporting theft or loss of controlled substances, the form used to order Schedule I and II substances, and the form used to register a new pharmacy or dispenser. Thus, the form specifically designed to request permission to destroy is DEA Form 41.