What is the primary purpose of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)?

The primary purpose of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is to enforce the controlled substances laws and regulations. This agency plays a crucial role in managing the legality and distribution of substances that have a potential for abuse. By regulating the manufacture, distribution, and dispensing of controlled substances, the DEA helps to prevent illegal drug trafficking and misuse while ensuring that medical professionals can prescribe these substances appropriately for legitimate medical needs. This regulatory oversight is essential in maintaining public safety and health standards concerning addictive drugs.

While other options may involve aspects of healthcare and medication, they do not accurately represent the DEA's core function, which centers specifically around the legal frameworks governing controlled substances.