NABP Launches Pulse Digital Platform for Dispensers to Strengthen Drug Supply Chain Security and DSCSA Compliance
Key Insights
The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (search) (NABP) has opened Pulse by NABP (search) account creation to dispensers, expanding the digital platform aimed at combating counterfeit and substandard prescription medications.
Pulse facilitates interoperability across the drug supply chain by enabling verified trading partner identification, secure communications, and streamlined compliance with the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA).
Regulators began using Pulse in early 2026, several chain pharmacies started onboarding in July, and distributors will be invited to join the platform in the fall.
The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (search) (NABP) announced on July 22, 2026, that dispensers across the United States can now create accounts on Pulse by NABP (search), a digital platform designed to enhance drug supply chain security and protect patients from counterfeit or substandard prescription medications. The launch marks a significant expansion of the platform, which aims to simplify compliance with the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA) through greater interoperability among supply chain stakeholders.
"We are excited to expand the availability of Pulse by NABP (search) to more members of the supply chain," said NABP Executive Director and Secretary Lemrey "Al" Carter, PharmD, MS, RPh. "As an Association, protecting patients is at the heart of what drives NABP every day, and we have worked with partners from across the industry to develop a platform that will help supply chain members easily and efficiently create more security in the drug supply chain."
Phased Rollout Across the Supply Chain
The Pulse platform has been introduced through a phased approach. Regulators began utilizing the system in early 2026 to help identify suspect products across the pharmacy supply chain. Several chain pharmacies commenced onboarding in early July 2026, and distributors are expected to be invited to create accounts in the fall, completing the platform's reach across the major segments of the pharmaceutical supply chain.
Once dispensers set up their accounts and claim their facility profiles, the platform enables seamless communication with trading partners and efficient responses to regulator requests. This streamlined process is designed to reduce administrative burden while strengthening the integrity of the drug supply chain.
Tools for Transparency and Interoperability
Pulse by NABP (search) provides dispensers and their trading partners with a suite of user-friendly tools built around a comprehensive network of verified relationships. These capabilities include demonstrating transparency through Authorized Trading Partner Status, sharing preferred contacts to streamline interoperability and communication, enabling information searches such as Global Location Numbers and state licenses, and facilitating trusted, secure communications between trading partners.
The platform is described by NABP as inclusive, accessible, and secure, supporting organizations of all sizes as they navigate the complex regulatory landscape of pharmacy practice. By enabling identification, authentication, and communication with verified trading partners, Pulse aims to create a more resilient and trustworthy pharmaceutical supply chain.
DSCSA Compliance Simplified
The DSCSA, enacted to enhance the security of the U.S. drug supply chain, requires pharmaceutical supply chain stakeholders to implement systems and processes for tracing prescription drugs. Pulse by NABP (search) serves as a centralized digital solution that simplifies the process of achieving DSCSA compliance for regulators, trading partners, and their software solution providers. The platform's emphasis on verified relationships and secure communications directly addresses key DSCSA requirements related to product tracing and suspect product identification.
NABP, an independent, international, and impartial association, developed Pulse to assist its member boards in protecting public health. The organization emphasizes that the platform was built collaboratively with partners from across the industry to ensure it meets the practical needs of supply chain members.