Lawmakers Criticize the FDA
Top U.S. lawmakers criticized the Food and Drug Administration for its recent problems in handling drug safety. The hearing looked at the FDA's handling of Ketek, prescription anti-depressants, and Vioxx. The hearing discussed accusations that the FDA hid research that suggested these drugs to be dangerous. Representative Bart Stupack, D-Michigan, asked whether the FDA really is working for the American people.
Lawmakers Blast FDA for Censorship, Negligence Regarding Unsafe Drugs
"With each of these drugs, it appears that the FDA is not seriously questioning whether the risks outweigh the benefits of the new drug," Stupak asked. "One must ask, if the FDA is not protecting its client, the American people, whose interest is being protected?" An FDA whistleblower said that the FDA has not improved its ability to protect Americans from dangerous drugs.
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