Med News Today

FDA nominee claims science motivation

The acting FDA administrator, who is facing confirmation hearings in the Senate is claiming his announcement to reconsider the Plan B pill was motivated by science and not an attempt to win over his Democratic detractors.

From Reuters:

Democrats questioned the FDA's announcement a day earlier that it might approve nonprescription sales of Barr Pharmaceuticals Inc.'s Plan B emergency contraceptive for women 18 and older. The set of two pills can prevent pregnancy when taken within 72 hours of sex.

The Plan B debate has lingered at the FDA for years, spawning charges that political pressure has overshadowed scientific evidence and holding up a previous nominee.

Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach said he had reviewed scientific data and felt Plan B could be used safely by that age group, but younger girls would need a doctor's guidance.

"No one told me what I should or could do. No one told me what decision I must or must not make. This was my assessment and my commitment, and I hope you'll judge me on that record," Von Eschenbach told the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, which must approve his nomination before it can be considered by the full Senate.

Democrats are threatening to withhold his nomination until the pill is approved.

posted by nattietodd @ 12:51 PM