BMA and FDA Clash on Puberty Blocker Use

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recommended the approval of puberty blockers for youth with gender dysphoria, despite an internal study revealing increased risks of depression, suicidality, and seizures. The study, conducted between 2016 and 2017, primarily focused on minors with central precocious puberty but included some transgender youth using the drugs off-label. In the UK, the British Medical Association (BMA) has called for the NHS to lift the ban on puberty blockers and pause the implementation of the Cass Review, which found weak evidence supporting gender care interventions like puberty blockers. The BMA argues that children should continue to receive specialist healthcare and criticizes the Cass Review for its methodology. NHS England has rejected the BMA's proposals, maintaining confidence in the Cass Review recommendations.