Latest FDLI Update Magazine Features Two Articles Written by HPM Attorneys
May 20, 2008The latest issue of the Food and Drug Law Institute’s “Update” magazine features articles written by three Hyman, Phelps & McNamara, P.C. attorneys. The first article, titled “FDA Moves Against Marketed Unapproved Human Drugs,” was written by Susan J. Matthees and John R. Fleder and discusses recent FDA actions against companies marketing unapproved drugs. According to the article, the FDA began an enforcement initiative with respect to such drug products in June 2006 to “ensure that all drugs marketed in the United States meet safety, effectiveness, manufacturing, and labeling standards.” Since FDA began this initiative, FDA has publicly taken action with respect to many marketed unapproved drugs, including carbinoxamine, colchincine for injection, hydrocodone, and guaifenesin. Since this article was published, FDA announced a new enforcement action against Scientific Laboratories for manufacturing and distributing several unapproved drugs.
The second article, titled “The Pathway to Market for Your Medical Device: A Primer on Obtaining Information from FDA,” was written by Jeffrey K. Shapiro and provides an overview of ways to obtain advance information from FDA on regulatory issues concerning medical device clearance. The article provides a helpful overview of the options available for approaching FDA as well as the pros and cons of each option.