What is the role of the FDA regarding dietary supplements?

The FDA plays an important role in overseeing labeling claims for dietary supplements, which includes ensuring that the labels are truthful and not misleading. This involves monitoring the claims made by manufacturers about the benefits and effects of their products, as well as guaranteeing that the safety and quality of dietary supplements meet certain criteria. While the FDA does not require the same level of testing as it does for pharmaceutical drugs before they can be marketed, it does have authority over labeling practices to protect consumers from false or exaggerated claims.

Other choices present options that do not accurately reflect the FDA's role. For instance, the FDA does not promote the use of dietary supplements; instead, it aims to ensure safety and proper information are provided to consumers. Furthermore, dietary supplements are not regulated as drugs, which would require extensive pre-market testing. Instead, they are regulated under a different set of guidelines that allow manufacturers to market their products without prior approval from the FDA, as long as they comply with labeling and safety regulations.