What is the primary purpose of the Drug Quality and Security Act (DQSA)?

The primary purpose of the Drug Quality and Security Act (DQSA) is to build an electronic system to track prescription drugs. Enacted in 2013, the DQSA was designed primarily to enhance the safety and security of the drug supply chain, particularly in response to instances of counterfeit and contaminated drugs getting into the market. One of its key components is the establishment of a national track-and-trace system, which enables the electronic tracking of prescription pharmaceutical products from manufacturing through distribution to dispensing. This system helps ensure that all prescription medications can be traced at every step, enhancing patient safety and reducing the likelihood of distribution of drugs that may be ineffective or harmful.

This is distinct from the other options provided. For instance, while the DQSA does pertain to drug quality, it does not primarily focus on regulating drug pricing, enhancing marketing practices, or increasing the number of compounding pharmacies. The emphasis is solely on security and traceability in the supply chain, making the electronic tracking system a fundamental aspect of the act.