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Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

By Michael Bihari, MD, About.com

Updated: August 28, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Rich Fogoros, MD

Definition: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for protecting the public health by assuring the safety, efficacy and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, the nation’s food supply, cosmetics and products that emit radiation.

The FDA is a federal government agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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