What item must be present on the label of a controlled drug?

The requirement for a controlled drug label to include the DEA number of the practitioner is essential for regulatory and safety reasons. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulates the prescription of controlled substances to prevent misuse and abuse. Including the DEA number on the label helps to identify and verify the practitioner who is authorized to prescribe such medications, ensuring accountability in prescription practices.

This requirement is particularly important for controlled substances, as they have a higher potential for abuse compared to non-controlled medications, so having the DEA number aids in tracking and managing these substances effectively. This helps in compliance with federal regulations and facilitates easier communication between pharmacies, prescribers, and regulatory bodies regarding the dispensing of controlled substances.

While the brand name of the drug, animal weight, and expiration date are important components of medication labeling, they do not carry the same regulatory significance as the DEA number when it comes to controlled substances. The DEA number specifically links the prescription to a qualified provider, which is crucial for both legal and safety aspects.