Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

Definition

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a United States federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Justice tasked with combating drug smuggling and use within the U.S. It regulates controlled substances by enforcing laws related to drugs and chemical diversion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The DEA enforces the Controlled Substances Act, which classifies drugs into schedules based on their potential for abuse and medical use.
2. The DEA issues licenses to healthcare providers, including nurses, for prescribing controlled substances.
3. In pharmacology, the DEA number is required for prescribing medications like opioids.
4. The DEA collaborates with other agencies to prevent illegal drug trafficking and distribution.
5. The DEA plays a critical role in monitoring and regulating the production and distribution of opioid use disorder treatment drugs.

Review Questions

• What law does the DEA enforce that classifies drugs into different schedules?
• Why is a DEA number important for healthcare providers?
• How does the DEA impact the regulation of opioid use disorder treatment drugs?

Related terms

Controlled Substances Act:

A federal law that regulates the manufacture, importation, possession, use, and distribution of certain substances.

DEA Number: A unique identifier assigned to a healthcare provider allowing them to prescribe controlled substances.

Opioid Use Disorder:

A medical condition characterized by an inability to abstain from or control opioid use despite adverse consequences.