Which agency regulates the advertising of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the agency responsible for regulating the advertising of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. The FTC's role includes ensuring that advertising is truthful and not misleading, thereby protecting consumers from false advertisements. OTC medications are considered to be consumer products, and their marketing falls under the FTC's jurisdiction concerning unfair or deceptive practices.

In contrast, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) primarily oversees the safety, efficacy, and labeling of drugs, including prescription and OTC medications; however, its focus is more on ensuring products are safe for consumption rather than regulating advertising practices directly. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) deals with controlled substances and their regulation, which does not pertain to OTC drugs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focuses on public health, disease control, and prevention, rather than drug advertising. Thus, while multiple agencies play significant roles in drug regulation, the FTC specifically oversees advertising practices to ensure they align with consumer protection laws.