Which agency is primarily responsible for regulating prescription medications in the United States?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the primary agency responsible for regulating prescription medications in the United States. This agency ensures that medications are safe, effective, and properly labeled before they can be marketed to the public. The FDA conducts rigorous scientific reviews and testing processes to evaluate the efficacy and safety of new drugs, oversees clinical trials, and monitors drugs once they are on the market to ensure ongoing safety.

The FDA's role includes setting standards for drug manufacturing and distributing guidelines for prescribing and usage, which plays a crucial part in protecting public health. This regulatory oversight helps prevent harmful medications from entering the market and ensures that healthcare providers have accurate information on potential benefits and risks associated with prescription drugs.