Category Archives: Drug Safety Information Podcasts

FDA allows marketing for first of-its-kind post-natal test to help diagnose developmental delays and intellectual disabilities in children

Today the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized for marketing the Affymetrix CytoScan Dx Assay, which can detect chromosomal variations that may be responsible for a child’s developmental delay or intellectual disability. Based on a blood sample, the test can analyze the entire genome at one time and detect large and small chromosomal changes.

FDA Commissioner Margaret A. Hamburg’s Statement on the 50th Anniversary Surgeon General’s Report on Smoking and Health

The 50th anniversary of the release of the Surgeon General’s Report on Smoking and Health is an opportunity to reflect on the important progress that has been made in tobacco control and to look ahead on addressing this critical public health issue. In 2014, tobacco remains the leading preventable cause of disease and death in this country. For five decades, the Department of Human Health and Services has played a critical role in developing and implementing proven comprehensive tobacco control programs and policies aimed at preventing tobacco use, especially among youth, and encouraging cessation. The Surgeon General’s Report provides a scientific foundation for public health action to reduce the public health impact of tobacco use.

FDA approves first gel for sealing corneal incision after cataract surgery

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved the first gel sealant for use in stopping fluid from leaking through the incision in a patient’s cornea after cataract surgery with intraocular lens placement in adults. Prior to today’s approval, stitches were the only option for closing a leaking corneal incision after cataract surgery.

FDA announces voluntary nationwide recall of all non-expired sterile drugs from Abrams Royal Compounding Pharmacy

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is alerting hospitals, health care professionals, and patients of a voluntary recall of all non-expired drug products produced and distributed for sterile use by Abrams Royal Compounding Pharmacy in Dallas, Texas. The recalled products include injectable medications, intravenous (IV) injections, eye drops, pellet implants, nasal sprays, inhalation solutions, and eye ointments that were distributed between June 17, 2013 and Dec. 17, 2013.