Trump's FDA Nominee Grilled on Mifepristone Dispensing and Vaccine Committee Transparency

Mifepristone Dispensing and Coercion Concerns

• ⚠️ Dr. McCarry is questioned about the FDA's decision to no longer enforce in-person dispensing for mifepristone, an abortion drug.
• 📌 A case from Louisiana is highlighted where an individual attempted to coerce someone into taking the medication, an act that might have been prevented if the patient had seen a physician.
• ❓ If confirmed, Dr. McCarry is asked if she would reinstate the in-person dispensing requirement and reporting for adverse events associated with mifepristone.
• 🔬 Dr. McCarry states she has no preconceived plans but will review the data and consult with FDA scientists and the REMS program for ongoing data collection.

Transparency of Vaccine Advisory Committees

• 📉 The FDA's cancellation of the annual Vaccines and Related Biologic Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) meeting is discussed.
• 🗣️ This meeting traditionally allowed for transparency through a post-mortem review of the previous year's flu vaccine strain selection process.
• ❓ Dr. McCarry is asked how she will ensure advisory committees remain objective, transparent, and benefit from external expertise.
• 🤝 She commits to reviewing the committees' functions and expresses past criticism of VRBPAC not being convened during COVID-19 booster guidance decisions.
• 💡 Dr. McCarry acknowledges the importance of public confidence and the perception of confidence derived from expert opinion and transparency.