August 10, 2025
Mastering the complex landscape of pharmaceutical distribution requires both operational expertise and adherence to the highest standards of compliance.
One of the strategic steps required to strengthen your business’s credibility in the eyes of regulators and customers alike is NABP drug distributor accreditation. Let’s walk you through the steps involved in obtaining this prestigious certification.
What is NABP? The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) is a nonprofit organization that supports and works with state boards of pharmacy across the United States, as well as several international jurisdictions. Its core mission is to protect public health by ensuring the integrity and safety of the prescription drug supply chain and promoting uniform standards for pharmacy practice.
The NABP offers this accreditation (formerly called the VAWD accreditation) to wholesalers and distributors involved in the sale of prescription drugs. NABP accreditation assures regulators and customers that a company adheres to rigorous quality and safety standards, particularly with controlled substances.
This certification demonstrates a company’s focus on protecting public health and maintaining regulatory compliance. Here are the steps to get it.
The first step is to make sure that your company complies with both local and federal regulations surrounding drug distribution. This includes maintaining the proper licenses, handling documentation accurately, and ensuring your facilities meet the highest standards.
To be eligible for NABP Drug Distributor Accreditation (DDA), your business must meet a defined set of criteria designed to ensure the integrity, safety, and traceability of the pharmaceutical supply chain.
At a minimum, your company must demonstrate compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations, including the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA). You’ll also need to follow Good Distribution Practices (GDP) — which govern how prescription drugs are received, stored, handled, and shipped — to ensure product quality and patient safety.
Another key requirement is having robust recordkeeping systems in place. Your records must be accurate, readily retrievable, and able to withstand scrutiny during audits conducted by the NABP or other regulatory bodies. This includes documentation related to licensure, product transactions, temperature monitoring (if applicable), and any suspicious order monitoring activity.
Security measures also play a vital role in the accreditation process. Your facility should have appropriate physical safeguards (like access control, alarms, and surveillance), as well as documented procedures for safeguarding inventory against diversion or loss.
Failing to meet any of these standards can result in significant delays or even rejection of your application — which is why preparing thoroughly before applying is critical.
Once you’ve confirmed that your business meets all the requirements, it’s time to submit your application. The NABP Supply Chain Inspection (SCI) application process includes providing detailed information about your business, such as ownership, facility details, and compliance programs.
Additionally, your company must demonstrate an understanding of regulatory obligations and prove it has the necessary systems in place to ensure ongoing compliance via a policy and procedure review.
Following your application submission, NABP will review your application and make a determination as to whether or not you meet the criteria for accreditation. If you do, NABP will typically conduct an on-site inspection at your facility to verify that it meets the required standards to recvie the accreditation. During this inspection, you will need to demonstrate your operations in real-time, showing how your procedures align with NABP guidelines.
This may include showcasing inventory management systems, security protocols, and handling procedures for controlled substances. After the inspection, if everything meets NABP’s standards, your business will be granted accreditation.
GTC Consulting offers professional controlled substance distribution consulting services and can help set your business up for success long before you submit your application.
Our team’s extensive experience in this field enables us to anticipate challenges and navigate regulatory hurdles with ease. By enlisting our services, you can avoid costly delays and focus on scaling your business while we handle the intricacies of accreditation.
Achieving NABP drug distributor accreditation is a significant accomplishment that reflects your ability to uphold the highest standards of quality, safety, and legal compliance. By following these steps, you position your business as a trusted leader in the industry.
We are here to support your businesses in navigating the complexities of drug distributor accreditation. Contact us today to begin your journey toward NABP drug distributor accreditation with confidence.
August 10, 2025
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