What types of entities are covered by DEA Forms 224 and 224a?

DEA Forms 224 and 224a are specifically designed for entities that are engaged in the practice of dispensing controlled substances. This includes retail pharmacies and practitioners who prescribe or dispense these medications.

Retail pharmacies are typically the most common entities associated with dispensing prescriptions to patients and must register with the DEA to facilitate the distribution of controlled substances legally. Practitioners, such as physicians and dentists, also need to be registered to prescribe controlled substances. The registration process through Form 224 allows them to operate legally and ensure compliance with the Controlled Substances Act.

Understanding this context helps clarify why retail pharmacies and practitioners are the correct entities associated with these forms, as they are the ones directly involved in the dispensing activities that the DEA regulates. Other types of entities mentioned, like manufacturers and reverse distributors, have different registration requirements and use other specific forms for their operations.