Who is responsible for the oversight of prescription drug advertising?

The oversight of prescription drug advertising falls primarily under the jurisdiction of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is due to the FDA's mandate to ensure that drug advertisements do not mislead consumers and provide balanced information about the benefits and risks associated with the drugs being promoted. The FDA establishes guidelines for the format and content of prescription drug advertisements to ensure they comply with federal regulations, taking into account both the need for accurate information and the protection of public health.

While the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also plays a role in regulating advertising practices, particularly concerning false or misleading information in a broader sense, it does not specifically oversee prescription drug advertisement regulations. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) focuses on the enforcement of controlled substances laws and regulations, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) primarily addresses public health issues, including disease prevention and control, rather than drug advertising. Thus, the FDA is the appropriate agency responsible for the oversight of prescription drug advertising.