Food and Drug Administration (FDA) | Practical Law

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) | Practical Law

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Practical Law Glossary Item 3-501-7065 (Approx. 3 pages)

Glossary

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

An agency within the US Department of Health and Human Services. Under authority of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938 and other federal laws, the FDA is responsible for:
  • Regulating and protecting the safety of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products, medical devices, foods, dietary supplements, cosmetics, and products that give off radiation.
  • Regulating tobacco products.
  • Evaluating the effect of certain product innovations on the public health.
  • Providing the public with information necessary for the safe and effective use of medicines and foods.
For more information on how the FDA regulates certain advertising and marketing activities under the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, see Practice Note, Advertising: Overview: The Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.