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

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) plays a crucial role in enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States. Its primary responsibility is to combat drug trafficking and abuse through strict regulation of both legitimate medical practices and illicit drug activities. The DEA is tasked with scheduling controlled substances, which involves categorizing drugs based on their potential for abuse, accepted medical use, and safety or dependence liability. This classification creates a structured framework that governs how these substances are manufactured, distributed, prescribed, and dispensed.

In carrying out these duties, the DEA collaborates closely with state and local law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This act is fundamental in combating drug issues across the nation. By enforcing these laws and regulations, the DEA aims to limit the availability of controlled substances to legitimate medical use while preventing their abuse.

While other options touch on important aspects of drug management, they do not encompass the primary function of the DEA. Conducting drug abuse research and evaluating drug safety and efficacy involve different agencies and processes, whereas regulating over-the-counter medications falls outside the specific mandate of the DEA, as these products do not usually require the same level of control as prescription medications.