What is the purpose of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)?

• A. To oversee the safety of over-the-counter drugs
• B. To regulate the manufacturing and distribution of controlled substances
• C. To promote public health awareness
• D. To license all pharmacies nationwide

Answer: (B)

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) plays a critical role in regulating controlled substances, which are medications that have the potential for abuse and addiction. The primary objective of the DEA is to enforce the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States, ensuring that these drugs are manufactured, distributed, and dispensed in a manner that is safe and compliant with legal standards.

Specifically, the DEA monitors the entire supply chain of controlled substances, from their production to their prescription and dispensing to patients. This includes issuing licenses to manufacturers and distributors, as well as establishing and maintaining a scheduling system that classifies drugs based on their potential for abuse.

The other options do not align with the core functions of the DEA. For instance, overseeing the safety of over-the-counter drugs pertains more to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Promoting public health awareness is a broader initiative that often involves various agencies and organizations but is not specifically the mandate of the DEA. Licensing all pharmacies nationwide is also not a responsibility of the DEA, as this is typically managed at the state level by pharmacy boards.