Question 37

Deactivation of hazardous drugs may be done using agents registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Deactivation of hazardous drugs as per USP Chapter 800 involves utilizing agents that are specifically registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This ensures that the agents used meet safety and efficacy standards for handling hazardous substances.

A) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

This option is correct because USP Chapter 800 explicitly states that the deactivation of hazardous drugs should be done using agents that are registered with the EPA. The EPA is responsible for regulating substances that could pose environmental and health risks, making it the appropriate authority for such agents.

B) Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The FDA primarily oversees the approval and regulation of pharmaceuticals and medical devices rather than environmental agents. While the FDA plays a crucial role in drug safety, it does not specifically govern the deactivation agents mentioned in USP Chapter 800.

C) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The CDC focuses on public health and safety, including disease prevention, but it does not regulate the agents used for the deactivation of hazardous drugs. Therefore, this option is not applicable in the context of USP Chapter 800.

D) Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

The DEA is concerned with the regulation of controlled substances and their potential for abuse. It does not oversee the environmental safety aspects related to the deactivation of hazardous drugs, making this option incorrect.

Conclusion

The correct answer is A) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) because it is the authority responsible for regulating agents used in the deactivation of hazardous drugs as outlined in USP Chapter 800. The other options fail to align with the specific regulatory requirements for hazardous drug handling, as they pertain to different aspects of drug safety and regulation.