DEA Professional Knowledge 1 — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is the primary mission of the DEA?

To monitor pharmaceutical manufacturing.
To enforce controlled substances laws and regulations (Correct answer)
To issue medical licenses.
To track over-the-counter drug sales.

Correct answer: To enforce controlled substances laws and regulations

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was established to combat drug trafficking and distribution within the United States. Its primary mission is to enforce the controlled substances laws and regulations of the U.S., bringing to justice those involved in growing, manufacturing, or distributing illicit drugs. This ensures public safety by controlling access to potentially harmful substances.

Question 2: Which schedule of drugs has the highest potential for abuse and no accepted medical use?

Schedule IV
Schedule III
Schedule I (Correct answer)
Schedule II

Correct answer: Schedule I

Schedule I drugs are classified by the DEA as having a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States. Examples include heroin, LSD, and ecstasy. Due to their high abuse potential and lack of medical utility, these substances are subject to the most stringent controls.

Question 3: What form must be used to order Schedule I and II drugs?

DEA Form 106
DEA Form 222 (Correct answer)
DEA Form 41
DEA Form 225

Correct answer: DEA Form 222

DEA Form 222 is a specific, triplicate form required for ordering Schedule I and II controlled substances. This form provides a strict paper trail for these highly controlled drugs, ensuring accountability and preventing diversion. It is essential for pharmacies and other registrants to maintain accurate records of these orders.

Question 4: How often must DEA registrations be renewed?

Annually
Every 5 years
Every 2 years
Every 3 years (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Every 3 years

DEA registrations for practitioners, pharmacies, and other entities authorized to handle controlled substances must be renewed every three years. This regular renewal process ensures that all registrants continue to meet the necessary legal and regulatory requirements for handling controlled substances. It also allows the DEA to maintain an up-to-date registry of authorized individuals and facilities.

Question 5: Which form is used to report theft or loss of controlled substances?

DEA Form 41
DEA Form 106 (Correct answer)
DEA Form 222
DEA Form 223

Correct answer: DEA Form 106

DEA Form 106 is specifically designated for reporting the theft or significant loss of controlled substances. Prompt reporting is crucial for law enforcement to investigate and prevent further diversion of these drugs. This form helps maintain accountability and track the movement of controlled substances.

Question 6: Who must register with the DEA to prescribe controlled substances?

Pharmacists
Practitioners prescribing controlled substances (Correct answer)
Nurses
Lab technicians

Correct answer: Practitioners prescribing controlled substances

Any practitioner (e.g., physician, dentist, veterinarian, or other healthcare provider) who intends to prescribe, administer, or dispense controlled substances must register with the DEA. This registration ensures that only authorized individuals with appropriate licenses and training can handle these medications, preventing misuse and diversion. It is a critical step in maintaining control over these powerful drugs.

Question 7: What must be done with expired controlled substances?

They can be disposed in the trash.
They must be returned to the manufacturer.
They must be destroyed according to DEA guidelines (Correct answer)
They should be flushed down the toilet.

Correct answer: They must be destroyed according to DEA guidelines

Expired controlled substances cannot simply be discarded; they must be destroyed in a manner that renders them non-retrievable and non-divertible, following strict DEA guidelines. This often involves using reverse distributors or specific on-site destruction methods. Proper destruction prevents these substances from falling into the wrong hands or harming the environment.

Question 8: What is required for secure storage of controlled substances?

They can be stored on open shelves.
They require no special storage.
They must be stored with food supplies.
They must be stored in a locked, secure cabinet (Correct answer)

Correct answer: They must be stored in a locked, secure cabinet

To prevent theft and diversion, controlled substances must be stored securely. DEA regulations mandate that these drugs be kept in a securely locked, substantially constructed cabinet or distributed throughout the non-controlled stock to deter theft. This measure is critical for maintaining accountability and preventing unauthorized access.

Question 9: What is the penalty for illegal distribution of controlled substances?

Warning letter only.
Revocation of driving license.
Imprisonment and fines (Correct answer)
Temporary suspension from practice.

Correct answer: Imprisonment and fines

Illegal distribution of controlled substances is a serious federal offense with severe penalties. Individuals found guilty can face significant terms of imprisonment, substantial fines, and forfeiture of assets. These strict penalties reflect the DEA's commitment to combating drug trafficking and protecting public health and safety.

DEA Professional Knowledge 1

What is the primary mission of the DEA?