What is considered a Diversion in pharmacy practices?

Diversion in pharmacy practices primarily refers to situations where controlled substances are unlawfully redirected or taken for personal use rather than legitimate medical purposes. Stolen controlled medications fit this definition perfectly, as they are removed from the legal distribution or prescription system and generally intended for illicit use. This type of diversion is a significant concern within pharmacies since it poses serious legal, ethical, and health risks.

Other choices, while potentially concerning in terms of pharmacy operations, do not constitute diversion. Improper storage of medications may lead to loss of efficacy or safety issues, expired medications reflect concern for proper inventory management, and mislabeling products may affect patient safety, but none represent the unlawful redirection of controlled substances that defines diversion. Thus, the correct answer focuses specifically on the illegal acquisition of medications intended for legitimate medical use.