FDA Reports Near-Record Number of Rx Drug Approvals
In a report released Thursday, FDA said it approved 35 drugs in the previous year, the second-highest number in the past decade. According to the report, 24 of those drugs were made available to U.S. consumers before they became available in other countries. The agency has faced criticism from some drugmakers that say FDA's slow review process stifles innovation and drives companies to Europe, while some consumer advocates say the agency sacrifices safety for speed. FDA officials say the data highlight the need for legislation to continue financing the approval process with user fees.
- "FDA Officials, Hoping To Stave Off Critics, Point to Increased Drug Approvals" (Harris, New York Times, 11/3).
- "FDA Says Drugs Approved in U.S. Before Europe" (Yukhananov/Selyukh, Reuters, 11/3).
- "Drug Regulators Tout Banner Year for New Medicines Ahead of Hill Fight on User Fees" (Pecquet, "Healthwatch," The Hill, 11/3).