What is the primary role of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)?

The primary role of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is to enforce the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States. This encompasses the regulation and monitoring of prescription drugs and substances that have potential for abuse and dependency. The DEA plays a crucial part in ensuring that controlled substances are handled properly throughout the manufacturing, distribution, and prescribing processes, focusing on preventing misuse and illegal trafficking of these substances.

This responsibility includes the scheduling of drugs based on their potential for abuse, medical usefulness, and safety. By enforcing laws related to controlled substances, the DEA works to protect public health and safety from the harms associated with drug abuse and illegal drug trafficking.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the DEA's functions. Regulating drug pricing falls under the purview of other governmental agencies and involves economic considerations rather than enforcement of law. Conducting clinical trials is a function typically performed by pharmaceutical companies and research institutions and is overseen by regulatory bodies like the FDA, rather than the DEA. Finally, the approval of new drug applications is also the responsibility of the FDA, which evaluates the safety and efficacy of drugs before they can be marketed. The DEA's focus remains squarely on law enforcement concerning controlled substances.