Copyright STAT
Good morning, everyone, and welcome to the middle of the week. Congratulations on making it this far, and remember there are only a few more days until the weekend arrives. So keep plugging away. After all, the alternatives are not particularly appetizing, yes? While you ponder the possibilities, we invite you to join us for a delightful cup or two of stimulation. Our choice today is pistachio creme. Remember that no prescription is required — so no co-pay or rebate negotiation is involved. Meanwhile, here is the latest menu of tidbits to help you on your way. Have a wonderful day, and please do stay in touch. Feedback, tips, and criticism are always appreciated. … The U.S. Food and Drug Administration named Richard Pazdur, its longtime overseer of cancer therapies, as its top drug regulator, STAT notes. Pazdur replaces former Center for Drug Evaluation and Research Director George Tidmarsh, who left the agency earlier this month amid accusations of using his regulatory authority to advance a personal vendetta against a former business associate, as well as infighting with vaccine and biologics center director Vinay Prasad. Pazdur has worked at the FDA for 26 years, and founded the agency’s Oncology Center of Excellence. His appointment signals an effort to bring stability to a crucial part of the FDA that’s been wracked by declining morale and staff departures. He will be the third person to lead CDER since President Trump took office. “Up to this point, appointments (at FDA) have created significant uncertainty for patients and industry as decision-making has appeared often times bipolar,” Raymond James analyst Chris Meekins wrote in an investor note. Advertisement
