Which organization establishes standards for the quality, purity, strength, and consistency of drugs in the United States?

The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) is the organization responsible for establishing standards for the quality, purity, strength, and consistency of drugs in the United States. It creates compendial standards that are scientifically based and guide pharmaceutical manufacturers in the production of safe and effective medications. The standards set by the USP are recognized nationally and serve as a benchmark for the quality and safety of drugs, dietary supplements, and their ingredients.

By ensuring that drugs meet defined standards, the USP plays a crucial role in protecting public health and enhancing the therapeutic effects of medications. Furthermore, the USP's guidelines help maintain uniformity in drug manufacturing processes, which is essential for ensuring that patients receive products that are both effective and safe.

While other organizations like the FDA regulate and oversee the approval and marketing of pharmaceuticals and APhA focuses on professional pharmacists, it is the USP that specifically sets forth the official compendium of drug standards in the United States. The WHO is focused more on international health issues and global public health standards rather than the specific regulation of drugs in the U.S.