Do colleges with an FDA research license also need a DEA license to possess controlled substances?

Colleges that hold an FDA research license must also obtain a DEA license to possess controlled substances, regardless of the nature of their research. The DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) regulates the use and distribution of controlled substances in the United States, ensuring that substances classified as controlled are handled according to specific legal and safety standards. The FDA focuses on the safety and efficacy of drugs for public health, but it does not govern the possession and distribution aspects, which falls under the jurisdiction of the DEA.

A DEA license is essential for any institution conducting research involving controlled substances, including schedules I through V. This double-layer of regulation ensures that all research complies with both drug safety regulations and controlled substance laws, protecting both institutions and the public.

The other choices suggest different scenarios where a DEA license might not be required, but they do not reflect the comprehensive legal requirements established by both the FDA and the DEA. Thus, a DEA license is necessary for colleges engaging in activities that involve controlled substances.