What authorization is required to prescribe dangerous drugs and devices?

• A. Authorization from the DEA
• B. No authorization required
• C. Only hospital approval
• D. Public Health permit

Answer: (A)

Prescribing controlled or regulated substances is governed by federal law, so a valid authorization from the Drug Enforcement Administration is required. The DEA registration confirms that the prescriber is legally permitted to handle and prescribe controlled substances, and the prescriber’s DEA number must appear on prescriptions for those drugs. This federal requirement stands alongside state licenses and local hospital privileges, and it cannot be substituted by a hospital approval or a public health permit. Some medications aren’t controlled and don’t require DEA registration, but dangerous drugs and devices that fall under controlled substances do require this federal authorization.