Prashant Kumar Cell and gene therapies (CGTs) are revolutionizing treatment for patients, particularly for those with rare and life-threatening diseases. Yet, the path from development to approval is challenging because rare disease clinical trials often involve very small patient populations and pose unique logistical challenges. This week, two FDA guidance documents outline how available innovative trial designs … Read more
Externally controlled trials (ECTs) are used when randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are impractical or unethical, particularly in rare diseases and oncology. But new analysis reveals that many ECTs fall short on methodological rigor, threatening the reliability of their findings. Unless the field embraces standardized practices, ECTs risk undermining the very evidence base they aim to … Read more
The FDA has long championed the irreplaceable value of on-site, in-person inspections for drug manufacturing oversight. Yet its latest guidance acknowledges that remote assessments can, in some contexts, be a more suitable and efficient regulatory tool. This balanced, risk-based approach reflects both the Agency’s pragmatic adaptation to modern realities. A final FDA guidance document released … Read more
The release of ICH E6(R3) marks a transformative shift in global clinical trial standards. By embracing risk-based quality management, modern technologies, and flexible trial designs, this guideline redefines how research should be conducted while safeguarding participants and ensuring reliable results. For sponsors, investigators, and regulators alike, E6(R3) represents a milestone in harmonizing innovation with patient … Read more
A prominent blogger highlighted the hypocrisy in the FDA’s latest crackdown on pharmaceutical advertising, which claims to combat deception. But under the current laws and the political environment, what are the practical options to respond for the affected parties? The unprecedented FDA move is based on questionable studies and data. Instead of protecting patients, this … Read more
Artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare, with the FDA approving digital apps for conditions like ADHD. But when it comes to mental health therapy, Illinois has drawn a firm line—banning AI-driven psychotherapy in favor of licensed professionals. This pivotal decision raises crucial questions about the safety, ethics, and regulatory future of AI mental health apps. Artificial … Read more
Developing treatments for ultra-rare diseases has always been one of the toughest challenges in drug development. With small patient populations and limited trial options, many promising therapies stall before reaching patients. The FDA’s new Rare Disease Evidence Principles (RDEP) aim to change that by offering a clearer, faster, and more flexible path to approval. This … Read more
When patients report side effects to the FDA, their experiences become part of a powerful drug safety system. Until recently, those reports took months to appear in the public record, leaving a long gap between patient experience and public awareness. Now, with daily publication of adverse event data through the FDA’s FAERS database, the agency … Read more
Natural products have been trusted for centuries to ease pain, boost immunity, and restore balance to the body. Yet, modern medicine often highlights rare adverse reports while overlooking the vast history of safe, beneficial use. It’s time to reframe the conversation and recognize that “natural” doesn’t always mean unsafe. A commentary published in MedScape raises … Read more
Medical technology is advancing faster than ever, but many lifesaving devices often face years of regulatory hurdles before reaching patients. The FDA’s Breakthrough Devices Program is designed to change that, offering innovators a faster pathway to market while maintaining rigorous safety standards. With over 1,100 designations and 160 authorizations to date, this program is transforming … Read more
