How many prescription products does a pharmacy typically purchase from its primary wholesaler?

• A. All prescription products are purchased from the primary wholesaler
• B. About 50% of prescription products are purchased from the primary wholesaler
• C. A minority of prescription products are purchased from the primary wholesaler
• D. Most prescription products (90-95%) are purchased from the primary wholesaler

Answer: (D)

The main idea is how pharmacies source their stock through wholesalers versus direct from manufacturers or other channels. In practice, the bulk of prescription products come from the primary wholesaler because this channel provides wide product coverage, consistent pricing, and efficient ordering with favorable terms (delivery, credit, and returns). This central source enables a pharmacy to stock a large mix of brands and generics with relatively simple logistics, which is why most prescriptions—about 90–95%—are purchased from the primary wholesaler. The remaining items are typically obtained directly from manufacturers or through secondary or specialty distributors when a product isn’t widely distributed, is a high-cost specialty therapy, or requires manufacturer-direct arrangements.