What is the primary federal agency responsible for enforcing the Controlled Substances Act?

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is the primary federal agency responsible for enforcing the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) because it specifically focuses on the regulation and control of drugs that have the potential for abuse and dependency. The DEA's role includes the enforcement of laws regarding the manufacture, distribution, and dispensing of controlled substances, ensuring compliance with federal regulations to combat drug trafficking and abuse effectively.

In addition to its enforcement duties, the DEA also plays a significant role in scheduling controlled substances based on their potential for abuse and medical uses. This categorization helps establish legal guidelines for handling these substances across various settings, including pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics.

While the FDA oversees the approval and regulation of drugs and ensures their safety and efficacy, its primary focus does not involve enforcement of the CSA. The Federal Trade Commission primarily deals with consumer protection and the regulation of unfair business practices, which does not pertain to drug enforcement. The Department of Health and Human Services oversees public health concerns but does not enforce drug-specific regulations as directly as the DEA does. Thus, it is the DEA that has the distinct responsibility for enforcing the Controlled Substances Act, making it the correct choice in this context.