Back Page: Christmas in July
Pharmaceutical Executive
The reauthorization of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) comes but once every five years. Set to expire September 30-and with congressional Democrats riding high and consumer confidence in drug safety at record lows-the deal by which pharma pays FDA to review its products is in for a long hot summer of debate.
The reauthorization of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) comes but once every five years. Set to expire September 30—and with congressional Democrats riding high and consumer confidence in drug safety at record lows—the deal by which pharma pays FDA to review its products is in for a long hot summer of debate. • The line of merry pols and other souls, including industry lobbyists, patient advocates, and FDA bigwigs past and present, who are hanging their wish lists on this post-Vioxx PDUFA is already mighty long. By the time the bill finally rolls out for a vote, it's bound to be as big as a Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. • On April 18, the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) made some headway by passing "Kenzi"—a bill from Ted Kennedy and Mike Enzi that sharpens the agency's teeth when it comes to monitoring drug safety, while shaking down pharma for 45 percent higher user fees. • Kenzi is widely viewed as the best-bet compromise between, on the one hand, PDUFA IV, the FDA–pharma proposal that merely tweaks the status quo, and, on the other, sweeping agency makeovers, including a competing Senate bill from Chris Dodd and Charles Grassley that calls for a brand-new safety center. Oh, and there's a growing chorus singing a "Kill PDUFA" carol. • We thought we'd play Santa's helper and provide a guide to the most eye-catching balls—er, bills.
Beyond the Prescription: Pharma's Role in Digital Health Conversations
April 1st 2025Join us for an insightful conversation with Jennifer Harakal, Head of Regulatory Affairs at Canopy Life Sciences, as we unpack the evolving intersection of social media and healthcare decisions. Discover how pharmaceutical companies can navigate regulatory challenges while meaningfully engaging with consumers in digital spaces. Jennifer shares expert strategies for responsible marketing, working with influencers, and creating educational content that bridges the gap between patients and healthcare providers. A must-listen for pharma marketers looking to build trust and compliance in today's social media landscape.
Beyond the Prescription: The Role Pharma Plays in Digital Health Conversations
April 1st 2025As social media continues to influence healthcare communication, it presents both challenges and opportunities for the pharmaceutical industry. In this interview, Jennifer Harakal of Canopy Life Sciences discusses balancing compliance with effective digital engagement to build trust and facilitate meaningful healthcare conversations.
