Drug Approval and Regulation

Drug approval and regulation involve a series of steps that ensure new medications are safe and effective before they reach the public. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees this process. Pharmaceutical companies conduct rigorous testing and clinical trials to gather data on a drug's effects. They submit this information to the FDA, which reviews it thoroughly. If the drug meets safety and effectiveness standards, it receives approval for public use. Post-approval, the FDA continues to monitor the drug for any long-term effects or adverse reactions to protect public health.