What is the purpose of a DEA number?

The purpose of a DEA number is to prescribe controlled substances. A DEA number is a unique identifier assigned by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to healthcare providers, such as doctors and nurse practitioners, who are authorized to prescribe medications that fall under the category of controlled substances. This number is critical for ensuring that prescriptions for these substances are valid and can be tracked properly to prevent abuse and misuse.

When a prescriber writes a prescription for a controlled substance, they must include their DEA number. This ensures that pharmacies can verify that the issuer is indeed authorized to prescribe controlled substances, helping to maintain the integrity of the prescribing process and reinforcing the legal framework that governs the dispensation of these medications.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the primary function of a DEA number. Listing prescribers in a state or issuing federal grants for medical research are not related to the prescribing of medications. While enforcing drug policy and regulation is a role of the DEA, it pertains more to their broader responsibilities, rather than the specific function of the DEA number which is directly linked to the authority to prescribe controlled substances.