Which government agency is responsible for regulating controlled substances?

The agency responsible for regulating controlled substances is the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The DEA operates under the Department of Justice and plays a key role in the enforcement of the Controlled Substances Act. This includes the regulation of the manufacturing, distribution, prescribing, and dispensing of controlled substances, ensuring that they are used safely and legally.

The DEA is tasked with preventing drug abuse and trafficking, as well as overseeing the scheduling of drugs based on their potential for abuse and medical value. The agency monitors the production and distribution of controlled substances to enforce compliance with federal law, making it essential in managing the nation's drug control policy.

Other agencies mentioned have different responsibilities; for example, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) oversees the safety and effectiveness of drugs and medical devices, but it does not specifically regulate the controlled substance laws. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) focuses on public health issues, including disease prevention and health promotion, while the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) deals with consumer protection and antitrust laws, not specifically controlled substances. Thus, the DEA's unique role in enforcing laws related to controlled substances clearly establishes it as the correct answer.