Under which act are scheduled medications regulated, requiring secure storage and DEA registration where applicable?

• A. Controlled Substances Act
• B. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
• C. Medical Practice Act
• D. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

Answer: (A)

Scheduling and secure handling of controlled substances are regulated by the Controlled Substances Act. This act creates the schedule system (I–V) to classify drugs by abuse potential and medical use, and it requires anyone who manufactures, distributes, dispenses, or administers these substances to obtain registration with the DEA. It also enforces strict security and recordkeeping standards, including secure storage (like locked cabinets), regular inventory, and accurate documentation to prevent diversion. The other acts don’t cover these aspects: the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act focuses on safety and labeling of drugs and cosmetics, not on scheduling or DEA registration; the Medical Practice Act governs licensure and professional scope; HIPAA protects patient privacy and health information.