What form is used to destroy controlled substances?

• A. DEA Form 106
• B. DEA Form 510
• C. DEA Form 222
• D. DEA Form 41

Answer: (D)

Disposal of controlled substances must be properly authorized and documented to maintain accountability and prevent diversion. When a substance is outdated, damaged, or otherwise unfit for use, the required process is to arrange destruction through a DEA-approved method and record the details. The form used to authorize this destruction and to document what was destroyed, in what quantity, and how the destruction occurred is DEA Form 41. Submitting this form to the DEA establishes official permission for the disposal and creates an auditable record that the substance was removed from inventory in a compliant way. The destruction is typically carried out by a DEA-registered reverse distributor or other approved destruction method, and the resulting disposal information is retained for regulatory review. This form is distinct from others used for different purposes, such as reporting theft or loss, ordering controlled substances, or registering to handle regulated chemicals.