Which regulatory body oversees pharmacy practice in North Carolina?

The North Carolina Board of Pharmacy is the regulatory body that oversees pharmacy practice within the state. It is responsible for regulating the practice of pharmacy to ensure the safety, efficacy, and accessibility of pharmaceutical care. The Board sets standards for the practice of pharmacy, issues licenses to pharmacists and pharmacies, and enforces laws and regulations pertaining to pharmacy practice. It also manages the approval processes for pharmacies, drug wholesalers, and pharmaceutical licenses, which are critical for maintaining public health and safety.

The other entities mentioned have different scopes and responsibilities. The FDA, or Food and Drug Administration, is a federal agency focused on protecting public health by regulating food, drugs, and medical devices, but it does not oversee pharmacy practice at the state level. The DEA, or Drug Enforcement Administration, primarily regulates controlled substances and their distribution, ensuring compliance with federal drug laws, but it does not directly oversee pharmacy practices or pharmacists’ licensure. The North Carolina Department of Health has broader public health responsibilities and does not specifically govern pharmacy practice in a manner akin to the Board. Thus, the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy is the appropriate authority tasked with those specific regulatory functions in the state.