2013-12121. Importer of Controlled Substances; Notice of Registration; Meridian Medical Technologies

By Notice dated March 7, 2012, and published in the Federal Register on March 13, 2013, 78 FR 15974, Meridian Medical Technologies, 2555 Hermelin Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63144, made application by renewal to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to be registered as an importer of Morphine (9300), a basic class of controlled substance listed in schedule II.

The company manufactures a product containing morphine in the United States. The company exports this product to customers around the world. The company has been asked to ensure that its product sold to European customers meets standards established by the European Pharmacopeia, which is administered by the Directorate of the Quality of Medicines (EDQM). In order to ensure that its product will meet European specifications, the company seeks to import morphine supplied by EDQM to use as reference standards. This is the sole purpose for which the company will be authorized by DEA to import morphine.

No comments or objections have been received. DEA has considered the factors in 21 U.S.C. 823(a) and 952(a), and determined that the registration of Meridian Medical Technologies to import the basic class of controlled substance is consistent with the public interest and with United States obligations under international treaties, conventions, or protocols in effect on May 1, 1971. DEA has investigated Meridian Medical Technologies to ensure that the company's registration is consistent with the public interest. The investigation has included inspection and testing of the company's physical security systems, verification of the company's compliance with state and local laws, and a review of the company's background and history.

Therefore, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 952(a) and 958(a), and in accordance with 21 CFR § 1301.34, the above named company is granted registration as an importer of the basic class of controlled substance listed.

Dated: May 14, 2013.

Joseph T. Rannazzisi,

Deputy Assistant Administrator, Office of Diversion Control, Drug Enforcement Administration.