Dr. Richard Pazdur appointed head of FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research
The US Food and Drug Administration has appointed Dr. Richard Pazdur as the head of its largest division, the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, which oversees the safety and regulation of most prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines, reports BritPanorama.
The center also oversees products like antiperspirants, sunscreens, and fluoride toothpaste, as well as making recommendations for drug labeling updates. This leadership change follows the abrupt resignation of the previous director, Dr. George Tidmarsh, who left amid concerns regarding his personal conduct.
Dr. Tidmarsh resigned last week while a drug manufacturer associated with one of his former colleagues filed a lawsuit alleging he made false and defamatory statements. The lawsuit indicated that he used his position to settle personal grievances against the chair of Aurinia Pharmaceuticals’ board of directors.
FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary expressed confidence in Pazdur’s capabilities, highlighting his successful track record and innovative approach in a statement. “Dr. Pazdur is a true regulatory innovator who will help guide our broader agenda to modernize the agency and streamline the approval process,” he noted.
Pazdur joined the FDA in 1999, initially leading the Division of Oncology Drug Products. He has been recognized with various awards, including being named one of Fortune’s 50 World’s Greatest Leaders and included in Bloomberg’s 50 power rankings. In addition to his extensive publication record, Pazdur also served as a professor of medicine at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
In his statement, Pazdur expressed his honor at taking on this role as the FDA navigates significant regulatory reforms. He will remain the director of the Oncology Center of Excellence until a successor is appointed, ensuring continuity in leadership as these changes unfold.
The appointment of Dr. Pazdur marks a significant moment in the FDA’s efforts to enhance its regulatory framework and responsiveness to the evolving needs of healthcare and patients.
