Heparin Aftermath: FDA Told More Foreign Inspections Needed
The safety of the U.S. drug supply came into question again this week amid allegations by the Food and Drug Administration that contaminated shipments of the blood thinner heparin have been linked to 81 deaths in the United States since January 2007 and many more injuries here and in 10 other countries. Related NewsThe Chinese government and drug manufacturing firms placed the blame on processing facilities in the United States, but lawmakers called on the FDA to account for the lapses. FDA Commissioner Andrew von Eschenbach appeared before a congressional panel this morning to explain what his agency is doing to ensure the safety and security of the growing number of drugs produced overseas.
By Matthew Shulman
22 April 2008