South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

Which act was introduced to combat drug tampering in 1982?

1. Orphan Drug Act

2. Kefauver-Harris Amendment

3. Federal Anti-Tampering Act

4. Prescription Drug Marketing Act

The correct answer is: Federal Anti-Tampering Act

The Federal Anti-Tampering Act was introduced in 1982 as a direct response to cases of drug tampering that posed significant public health threats. One of the most notable incidents that prompted this legislative action was the tampering of Tylenol capsules, where cyanide was introduced into the products, leading to several deaths and causing widespread fear among consumers. This act made it a federal offense to tamper with consumer products, including medications, and aimed to enhance the safety and security of pharmaceutical products. The legislation provided law enforcement with the tools necessary to prosecute individuals who engage in such dangerous activities, reinforcing public confidence in the safety of medications. Other acts mentioned, such as the Orphan Drug Act, Kefauver-Harris Amendment, and Prescription Drug Marketing Act, serve important but different purposes within pharmacy law and public health, addressing areas like drug development for rare diseases, enhancing drug approval processes, and regulating the marketing of drugs, respectively.