RFK Jr. stacks FDA panel with peptide peddlers as FDA scientists oppose access
Summary
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health Secretary, has appointed several supporters of injectable peptide drugs to a federal advisory panel that will review the FDA’s restrictions on these drugs. Despite FDA scientists saying these peptides lack proof of safety and effectiveness, the panel’s new members mostly promote peptide use or have financial connections to clinics offering these treatments. The panel will meet soon to discuss if compounding pharmacies should be allowed to make these peptides for people.Key Facts
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. added nine new members to the FDA advisory panel reviewing peptide drugs.
- Most new members promote peptides or have ties to clinics selling peptide treatments.
- FDA scientists found in 2023 that the peptides lack evidence of benefits and may be unsafe.
- The advisory panel will meet in July 2024 to discuss seven peptides for conditions like wound healing, obesity, and insomnia.
- Another meeting is planned before February 2027 to discuss five more peptides.
- The FDA currently bans compounding pharmacies from making these peptides for human use but allows them for research.
- The panel involved is the Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee, which heavily influences FDA decisions.
- Some new panel members are doctors or clinic directors who offer peptide therapies and have publicly supported relaxing FDA rules.
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