Drug Inspector Attrition Leads To Many Fewer Checks Than 2016 Peak Gao Says

The latest and trending news from around the world.

Drug inspector attrition leads to 'many fewer' checks than 2016 peak, GAO says
Drug inspector attrition leads to 'many fewer' checks than 2016 peak, GAO says from

Drug Inspector Attrition Leads to 'Many Fewer' Checks Than 2016 Peak, GAO Says

Declining Numbers of Drug Inspectors Raise Concerns About FDA Oversight

The number of drug inspectors at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has declined significantly in recent years, leading to a decrease in the number of inspections conducted by the agency. This decline has raised concerns about the FDA's ability to adequately oversee the safety and quality of drugs on the market. According to a report released by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the number of drug inspectors at the FDA has decreased by 15% since 2016. This decline has been attributed to a number of factors, including retirements, resignations, and a freeze on hiring. The GAO report found that the decline in drug inspectors has led to a decrease in the number of inspections conducted by the FDA. In 2016, the FDA conducted 2,046 drug inspections. In 2022, the FDA conducted only 1,351 drug inspections. This represents a decline of 34%. The decline in drug inspections has raised concerns about the FDA's ability to adequately oversee the safety and quality of drugs on the market. The FDA is responsible for ensuring that drugs are safe and effective before they are approved for sale, and for monitoring the safety of drugs once they are on the market. The decline in drug inspections means that the FDA has less oversight over the drug industry, which could lead to an increase in the number of unsafe drugs on the market. The GAO report recommends that the FDA take steps to address the decline in drug inspectors. These steps include increasing hiring and retention, and providing more training and support to drug inspectors. The FDA is currently working on implementing these recommendations.

What does this mean for you?

The decline in drug inspectors at the FDA is a serious concern. It could lead to an increase in the number of unsafe drugs on the market. If you are concerned about the safety of your medications, you should talk to your doctor. You can also contact the FDA to find out more about the safety of specific drugs.