Pharmaceutical regulations are rules and guidelines established by government agencies to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of medications. These regulations govern the entire lifecycle of a drug, from research and development to manufacturing, marketing, and post-market surveillance. Agencies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) play a crucial role in reviewing new drugs before they can be sold to the public. These regulations also require pharmaceutical companies to conduct clinical trials to test their products on humans, ensuring that any potential risks are identified and managed. Compliance with these regulations helps protect public health and ensures that patients receive safe and effective treatments.