According to FDA law, are large chain pharmacies allowed to buy directly from manufacturers?

Large chain pharmacies are not permitted to purchase prescription medications directly from manufacturers due to regulations established by the FDA and various state laws. Instead, they typically acquire their pharmaceutical products through licensed wholesalers or distributors. This regulatory framework is designed to ensure that prescription drugs are obtained from legitimate sources that comply with safety standards and supply chain integrity.

By requiring pharmacies to purchase through wholesalers, the FDA aims to mitigate risks related to counterfeit drugs and to provide a level of oversight that ensures compliance with legal and safety standards. Wholesalers play a critical role in the distribution process by verifying the authenticity and quality of the medications before they reach pharmacy shelves.

This approach is pivotal in maintaining the integrity of the drug supply chain and is part of broader public health measures to protect patients from potential harm associated with improperly sourced medicines.