Final answer:
The 'United States Pharmacopeia (USP)' signifies that a drug meets quality and safety standards. It is different from FDA approval, which certifies that a drug is safe and effective. The correct answer is a. 'meets quality and safety standards.'
Step-by-step explanation:
The designation 'United States Pharmacopeia (USP)' after the official name of a drug indicates that the drug meets specific quality and safety standards. The USP is a non-profit organization that sets federally recognized standards for the quality, purity, strength, and consistency of drugs, dietary supplements, and food ingredients. The USP standards are different from FDA approval, which means that option a. 'meets quality and safety standards' is the correct response to the student's question.
On the other hand, FDA approval is required for a new drug to demonstrate that it is safe and effective for its intended use through a rigorous review process. Medications approved by the FDA, including new drugs and generic drugs, undergo extensive scrutiny and testing to ensure safety and efficacy before they can be sold in the United States.