Report: Maryland bill could create hardships for Rx wholesale distributors

WASHINGTON — A Maryland bill that is intended to help pharmacies in managing inventories and avoid potential drug shortages could create hardships for distributors, according to an FDA law blog.



The bill introduced in the Maryland House of Delegates would require wholesale distributors to notify pharmacies at least 30 days before “imposing a limit on the quantity” of medications or devices distributed to the pharmacy. It also would require wholesale distributors to provide regular updates on the quantity of the medication or device available while a limitation is in effect.



However, according to the FDA law blog, the proposed legislation warrants monitoring and will need to be amended to resolve possible conflicts with federal law.



According to the FDA law blog, the proposed bill would not only create hardships for distributors but also could create potential conflicts with Drug Enforcement Administration requirements.