OTC drug advertising is primarily regulated by which agency?

The regulation of OTC drug advertising falls primarily under the jurisdiction of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC's mandate includes ensuring that advertisements are truthful and not misleading. It oversees the advertising practices of various consumer products, including over-the-counter medications, to protect consumers from deceptive marketing practices.

The FTC's focus on advertising means that it scrutinizes claims made about OTC products to ensure that they are substantiated and accurate. This is vital because OTC drugs are readily accessible to consumers, and their advertising can significantly influence purchasing decisions. By regulating this area, the FTC plays a key role in maintaining transparency in the marketplace.

While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does regulate drug products, including their labeling and safety, its jurisdiction over advertising is more specific to prescription medications and includes aspects like ensuring the advertising is not misleading regarding the drug's safety and effectiveness. However, for advertising practices involving non-prescription medications, the FTC is the primary regulatory body.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) primarily focuses on controlled substances and their regulation, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is mainly concerned with public health and disease prevention. Neither of these agencies plays a significant role in the regulation of OTC drug advertising.