The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is a government body which was set up in 2003 to bring together the functions of the Medicines Control Agency (MCA) and the Medical Devices Agency (MDA). The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health, who regulate medicines, medical devices and blood components for transfusion in the UK.

The agency is responsible for: ensuring that medicines, medical devices and blood components for transfusion meet applicable standards of safety, quality and efficacy. Ensuring that the supply chain for medicines, medical devices and blood components is safe and secure. Promoting international standardisation and harmonisation to assure the effectiveness and safety of biological medicines. Helping to educate the public and healthcare professionals about the risks and benefits of medicines, medical devices and blood components, leading to safer and more effective use. Supporting innovation and research and development that’s beneficial to public health and influencing UK, EU and international regulatory frameworks so that they’re risk-proportionate and effective at protecting public health.