The FDA says no to OTC statins
“According to the Associated Press, the committee said patients need medical guidance in treating high cholesterol because it has no symptoms and requires taking a statin for life.
In addition, the panel was concerned that pregnant women might take Mevacor and cause damage to their fetus.”
This was predictable, especially given the conservative climate surrounding pharmaceuticals in light of the COX-2 debacle.
Update:
The Bioethics Blog agrees with the decision.
Update 2:
Chris Rangel says the FDA saved Merck from itself.
