Which federal agency regulates pharmacy practice in the United States?

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is the correct answer because it plays a pivotal role in regulating pharmacy practice, particularly in the area of controlled substances. The DEA is responsible for enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States, which includes the registration of pharmacies and healthcare professionals who dispense these medications. This agency ensures that drugs are prescribed and dispensed legally, aiming to prevent abuse and illegal distribution of controlled substances.

While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is crucial for the overall safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals, it primarily focuses on drug approval processes and ensuring that medications are safe for consumer use. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) mainly oversees medical research and funding but does not regulate pharmacy practice. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is involved in public health and disease prevention but does not regulate pharmacy operations directly. Therefore, the DEA is the agency with the specific mandate to oversee the legality of pharmacy practice relating to controlled substances in the United States.