The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), part of the Department of Justice, has issued a final order establishing the aggregate production quotas for controlled substances in schedules I and II, and the annual needs for chemicals like ephedrine and pseudoephedrine for 2025. The order responds to public comments, particularly concerns about potential drug shortages, emphasizing that DEA aims to balance preventing drug misuse with ensuring adequate supply for medical and scientific needs. The quotas are set to address legitimate needs while considering factors like past usage data and potential diversion risks. Public concerns about opioid shortages were discussed, with the DEA noting that various external factors could affect drug availability and reassured that they are working with other agencies to mitigate such issues.
Simple Explanation
The government set rules about how much of certain strong medicines can be made each year to make sure there's enough for people who need them, but they also want to stop people from using them in the wrong way. They listen to people’s worries about not having enough medicine but try to make sure there's a good balance.