Dr. Vinay Prasad is back at the FDA after a brief resignation that stirred up quite a bit of controversy. He had stepped down late last month following a campaign against him, reportedly backed by pharmaceutical interests. This campaign gained traction after Prasad faced backlash online for his past political comments.
Health and Human Services spokesman Andrew Nixon confirmed that Prasad is resuming his role as the head of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. Prasad, who is generally seen as liberal, gained attention during the pandemic for his criticisms of COVID policies and figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci. This earned him some support from conservative groups, including those aligned with the "Make America Healthy Again" movement.
The situation escalated when Laura Loomer, a political activist, highlighted Prasad’s past social media posts, claiming he was undermining former President Trump’s health agenda. Loomer’s accusations included a call for his immediate firing, branding him a "wolf in sheep’s clothing."
The tension surrounding Prasad intensified after he decided to pause shipments of a gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy made by Sarepta Therapeutics. This decision came after reports linked the treatment to three potential deaths. Investigative reporter Emily Kopp suggested that Sarepta was behind the negative media coverage targeting Prasad, especially following the tragic death of an eight-year-old boy linked to the drug.
Despite the backlash, FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary defended Prasad, stating that the idea he was forced out was false. He mentioned that Prasad was concerned about becoming a distraction due to media attention. Makary expressed confidence in Prasad’s return, emphasizing the strength of the FDA as an institution.
In the wake of this controversy, Prasad’s return marks a significant moment for the FDA, especially as the agency continues to navigate the complex landscape of vaccine and gene therapy regulation.
