DEA 222 Triplicate Forms
Used to purchase, transfer or return schedule I and II medications
Can be signed by the individual authorized on the application for registration or anyone else with power of attorney
Have original, duplicate and triplicate carbon sheets
| Copy # | Color | Where does it go? |
| 1 | Brown | Supplier |
| 2 | Green | To supplier then to DEA |
| 3 | Blue | Kept by purchaser |
Each different product must be on a separate line!
Link to example of filling out DEA 222 triplicate form: https://northamerica.covetrus.com/docs/default-source/regulatory-documents/222-checlist-v16.pdf?sfvrsn=e8e26e73_2
An order may be partially filled within 60 days (expires at 60 days).
Purchaser notes the quantity recieved and date on Blue Copy 3 when receiving their order.
For Federal DEA purposes these records need to be kept for 2 years (some states may require longer).
Any unused forms must be returned to the DEA.
Lost or stolen forms should be reported to the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA in the Divisional office responsible for the area.
For reverse distributors, using the triplicate form process, pharmacy would receive Copy 1 and Copy 2 of the triplicate form, keeping Copy 1 and mailing Copy 2 to the local DEA office.
DEA Legal Amendment to Update to a Single-Sheet Format for DEA 222
SUMMARY: The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is amending its regulations to implement a new single-sheet format for DEA Form 222, used by DEA registrants to order schedules I and II controlled substances. The rule provides for a two-year transition period, during which the existing triplicate version of the forms may continue to be used. The rule also includes a number of minor procedural changes.
DATES: This rule is effective October 30, 2019.
Link to the detailed DEA Single-Sheet Format document: https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/fed_regs/rules/2019/fr0930.htm
Any triplicate forms on hand may be used until October 30, 2021.
Once triplicate forms on hand have been used, the DEA will begin sending single sheet DEA 222 Forms instead of the triplicate forms.
If any triplicate forms are still on hand on October 30, 2021, they should be sent into the Registration Section at DEA Headquarters and the single-sheet form should begin being used.
Since there is no longer a triplicate portion to keep at the pharmacy, the pharmacy will need to make a copy of the new single-sheet DEA 222 form either as a hard copy or electronic copy. Pharmacy will still need to document the quantity received and the date received at the pharmacy.
For Federal DEA purposes these records need to be kept for 2 years (some states may require longer).
The DEA 222 process has also been updated for reverse distributors. With the triplicate form process, pharmacy would receive Copy 1 and Copy 2 of the triplicate form, keeping Copy 1 and mailing Copy 2 to the local DEA office. With the single-sheet DEA 222 Form, pharmacy will receive the single copy, then make a copy and send it to the local DEA office. It is still required to document the quantity shipped and date shipped on the order form.
CSOS: Controlled Substance Ordering System
CSOS is the computerized system used for ordering controlled substances.
CSOS orders can include scheduled I-V and non-controlled.
If CSOS is down or the CSOS account is closed, then a paper form will be required to order.
1. An individual enrolls with DEA and, once approved, is issued a personal CSOS Certificate.
2. The purchaser creates an electronic 222 order using an approved ordering software. The order is digitally signed using the purchaser’s personal CSOS Certificate and then transmitted to the suppliers. The paper 222 is not required for electronic ordering.
3. The supplier receives the purchase order and verifies that the purchaser’s certificate is valid with DEA. Additionally, the supplier validates the electronic order information just like it would a paper order.
4. The supplier completes the order and ships to the purchaser. Any communications regarding the order are sent electronically.
5. The order is reported by the supplier to DEA within two business days
Above graphic and list is provided from the DEAecom.gov website.
Link to CSOS overview: https://www.deaecom.gov/overview.pdf
Distribution of Controlled Substances
Distribution shall be recorded by distributing and receiving pharmacies or practitioners. Receipts are to include: the controlled substance name, dosage form, dosage units in each container and number of containers ordered and received for record keeping.
If the controlled substance is a Schedule I or II, a DEA 222 must be used for the transaction.
Total number distributed during the calendar year shall not exceed 5% of the total number of all controlled substances during the same calendar year.
If number distributed will exceed 5% must obtain a registration to distribute controlled substances (i.e., wholesaler’s permit).
A PRESCRIBER MAY NOT WRITE A PRESCRIPTION FOR “OFFICE USE”.