FDA Limits Pharma Employees' Roles on Advisory Committees

The FDA has announced a new policy barring employees of companies it regulates, such as pharmaceutical and biotech firms, from serving as members on its advisory committees. This move, spearheaded by Commissioner Marty Makary and aligned with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s push for 'radical transparency,' aims to reduce perceived industry influence and conflicts of interest in the agency's decision-making processes. The FDA will now prioritize the participation of patients and caregivers on these committees, while still allowing industry representatives to attend meetings and provide input without holding official membership. Exceptions may be made in rare cases where unique expertise is only available from an industry employee, provided strict ethical guidelines are followed. The policy is intended to restore public trust in the FDA and ensure the integrity of its scientific evaluations, responding to concerns about the agency's historical ties with corporate interests. Advisory committees remain non-binding in their recommendations, but their composition and conduct are governed by laws designed to minimize potential conflicts.