-December 3, 2007
Since the recall of the diet drug fen-phen, the FDA’s relationship with the pharmaceutical companies has been questioned.
Those working for the FDA have been criticized in recent months for the way they have been handling the dozens of drugs and medical devices that have been pulled from the market.
FDA Decision to Pull Cold Medicines Controversial
In the last month, the FDA suggested that several over-the-counter cough and cold medications should not be given to children under the age of six.
According to the FDA panel, there is no solid evidence that the medications are effective or safe for young children.
Upon investigating the cold medicine controversy, some doctors reportedly found that the FDA and drug companies were slow to do anything about risks found with the drugs.
Critics of the FDA and drug-industry are now complaining that the relationship between drug companies and the medical researchers was too close during the cold medicine controversy.
They claim that the drug industry was attempting to turn medical-education seminars into promotion campaigns.
Congress Passes Drug Safety Bill
Last month Congress passed a bill concerning drug-safety in order to start tracking any negative reactions that are occurring with medications.
The drug industry has reportedly opposed this bill for years and some doctors have their doubts that the bill will do any good.
“I’m thinking there are not huge advances between 10 years ago and today,” commented Dr. Bruce Psaty, of the University of Washington.” But, I am hopeful some new changes are possible.”
Dr. David Graham, from the FDA, is less optimistic. “The FDA remains stuck in a view that gives the companies and drugs a free pass,” he said.
(Source: The Seattle Times)
Have you or someone you know been harmed by a prescribed or over-the-counter medication? Contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney who will ensure that you are compensated for any harm that has been inflicted.
