Ebola, Texas, Celsius, HHS, FDA: Morning Rounds

The American Diabetes Association’s annual conference is set to kick off today in New Orleans, and STAT’s Elizabeth Cooney will be covering the event to bring you three ADA in 30 newsletters. The Office of Human Research Protections, responsible for overseeing research funded by the Department of Health and Human Services, has faced significant challenges in the past year. With more than half of its employees gone and the advisory committee disbanded, concerns have been raised about the impact on research ethics and participant safety.

Drug companies and patient advocacy groups recently voiced their criticisms of the speedy drug review program implemented by former FDA Commissioner Marty Makary. While some participants had positive feedback, many called for a pause to the program and a return to traditional regulatory procedures. The National Priority Voucher program, offering expedited FDA reviews for drugs aligned with national priorities, has come under scrutiny for potential political influence.

In Texas, Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into energy drink company Celsius following a lawsuit alleging that their products led to a teenager’s death. Concerns have been raised about the high caffeine content in wellness-branded energy drinks, with health experts warning about the risks associated with these beverages. The proliferation of energy drinks with supercharged doses of caffeine has raised alarms among experts and consumers alike.

In other news, Americans with high-risk Ebola exposures will now have access to experimental therapy, thanks to a new antibody treatment developed by Mapp Biopharmaceuticals. A recent survey revealed that 1 in 5 U.S. adults with private health insurance have been denied coverage for doctor-recommended care, leading to medical debt and delays in treatment. Greater transparency and standardization of utilization review processes are needed to improve patient confidence in their insurance coverage.

These are just a few of the key updates in the world of health and medicine. Stay informed with STAT’s daily newsletter and follow along for more in-depth coverage of these important issues.