The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allowed scientists with direct financial ties to Pfizer serve on an advisory committee to evaluate the drug company’s proposed insulin inhaler, Exubera, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
The New York Times also discusses the issue of conflict of interest about Exubera in an article about a new diabetes pill an FDA panel recommended.
The FDA practice of using scientists with conflicting interests on its advisory panels, the House of Representatives in June voted to require the FDA to halt the practice and find unconflicted experts. The Senate is expected to pass a similar measure this week when it considers the FDA appropriations bill.
It’s sad that Congress has to take such action. It’s a no brainer that scientists shouldn’t have monetary ties to the drug companies making the drugs they’re reviewing.