Which federal agency is responsible for enforcing controlled substances laws?

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing laws related to controlled substances. This includes regulation, enforcement, and oversight of medications and drugs classified under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). The DEA plays a critical role in preventing and combating illegal drug trafficking and ensuring that medical and pharmaceutical practices comply with regulations regarding prescription drugs.

In contrast, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees the safety and efficacy of medications and food products but does not exclusively handle enforcement of controlled substances laws. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focuses on public health issues and disease prevention rather than drug enforcement. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is primarily involved in medical research and does not have a role in enforcing controlled substances laws. Thus, the DEA is uniquely positioned to manage and regulate the legal framework surrounding controlled substances.