Which agency ensures the safety and usefulness of medications?

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Multiple Choice

Which agency ensures the safety and usefulness of medications?

The agency that handles both safety and usefulness of medications is the FDA. It reviews evidence from clinical trials to determine whether a drug is effective for its intended use and whether its benefits outweigh its risks. Only after this careful evaluation does the FDA approve a medication for market, establish labeling with indications, dosing, and safety information, and set manufacturing standards to ensure consistent quality. It also continues to monitor drugs after they’re on the market for any new safety concerns, taking action if needed. Other agencies have important roles, but they don’t regulate drug approval and marketing: the CDC focuses on disease prevention and surveillance, while the NCI and NIH are research-oriented agencies.

The agency that handles both safety and usefulness of medications is the FDA. It reviews evidence from clinical trials to determine whether a drug is effective for its intended use and whether its benefits outweigh its risks. Only after this careful evaluation does the FDA approve a medication for market, establish labeling with indications, dosing, and safety information, and set manufacturing standards to ensure consistent quality. It also continues to monitor drugs after they’re on the market for any new safety concerns, taking action if needed. Other agencies have important roles, but they don’t regulate drug approval and marketing: the CDC focuses on disease prevention and surveillance, while the NCI and NIH are research-oriented agencies.

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