Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Conflictsof interest, Why FDA failing

INDUSTRY APPOINTMENTS-CONFLICT OF INTEREST?

Mistakes or omissions by the FDA have caused serious physical and mental problems to the public and have even been fatal in many cases. .Why is the Food and Drug Admi so inept?

Fourth, most Bush appointments come from the industry that is being regulated or inspected. Critics question the objectivity of these people. This source of appointments may well set up a conflict of interest for the appointee.

Lastly the companies that have had troubled products are trying to avoid legal and financial responsibility. They claim that because the FDA approved their product they are protected against any claims. Formerly the courts did not favor this approach. However recently the Supreme Court gave this protection to some medical devices. A case is coming up soon before the Supreme Court that may determine if FDA approval will shield drug products as well. Considering the present condition of Food & Drug this seems like a very dubious proposition.

No comments: