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FDA Streamlines Biosimilar Development Guidance

The FDA issued draft guidance to streamline biosimilar development by recommending the reduction of unnecessary clinical pharmacokinetic testing when scientifically justified. This initiative aims to save developers up to 50% in PK study costs, potentially lowering drug prices and increasing patient access to affordable biologic treatments.

FDA Meeting on State Drug Importation Program

The FDA held a meeting with several states to discuss the Section 804 Importation Program (SIP), which allows states to import certain prescription drugs from Canada. This meeting is part of the FDA's implementation of an executive order aimed at lowering drug prices for American consumers.

FDA Approves Wellcovorin for Cerebral Folate Deficiency

The FDA has approved Wellcovorin (leucovorin calcium) tablets for the treatment of cerebral folate deficiency in adult and pediatric patients with a confirmed FOLR1 gene variant. This marks the first FDA-approved treatment for this rare genetic condition.

MHRA Guidance on Medicine Reclassification for Improved Access

The MHRA has published guidance discussing the potential benefits of reclassifying medicines to improve patient access to treatments and reduce pressure on NHS services. The guidance highlights opportunities for self-care and innovation within the consumer healthcare sector.

Monoject Syringe Recall

Health Canada has issued a Type II recall for Monoject 1mL Luer Lock Syringes due to incorrect labeling. The affected products are mislabeled as Tuberculin syringes but contain U-100 Insulin syringes. Healthcare providers are advised to contact the manufacturer for more information.

SOLTIVE Premium SuperPulsed Laser System Recall

Health Canada has issued a Type II recall for the SOLTIVE Premium SuperPulsed Laser System manufactured by Gyrus Acmi, Inc. The recall is due to a defect in the 24V power supply causing sudden power loss or failure to power on. Affected customers will be contacted by Olympus representatives to schedule service.

Arjo Tenor Mobile Lift Recall

Health Canada has issued a Type II recall for the Arjo Tenor Mobile Lift due to a brake defect that can cause uncontrolled descent. All affected units must be removed from service immediately until repaired by authorized personnel.

Instinct Plus Endoscopic Clipping Device Recall

Health Canada has issued a Type II recall for the Instinct® Plus Endoscopic Clipping Device manufactured by Wilson-Cook Medical, Inc. due to 486 reported malfunctions where the clip fails to open. This recall is to withdraw products manufactured prior to corrective actions being implemented.

Health Canada Recalls Nitrous Oxide Chargers

Health Canada has issued a recall for nitrous oxide chargers sold for inhalation without market authorization. Consumers are warned not to inhale these products recreationally and to seek medical attention if side effects occur. The recall affects multiple brands sold by Total Merchandise Ltd.

Digimerck Tablets Quality Defect: Degradation Products May Exceed Limit

The German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) issued a Direct Healthcare Professional Communication regarding Digimerck 0.07 mg tablets. A quality defect has been identified where degradation products may slightly exceed the specification limit by the end of the product's shelf life. Distribution was discontinued in 2022.

Tegretal Suspension Use Restricted in Newborns

The German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) has issued a direct healthcare professional communication restricting the use of Tegretal Suspension (carbamazepine) in newborns due to high propylene glycol content. This restriction is to prevent serious side effects in infants.

Melphalan AqVida: Risk of Overdose Due to Higher Concentration

The German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) issued a communication regarding Melphalan AqVida RTD 90 mg/ml, a new formulation with an 18-fold higher concentration than existing melphalan products. This increased concentration poses a potential risk of overdose for patients.

Kisqali Tablets: Updated Storage Conditions and Shelf Life

Novartis Pharma GmbH has updated the storage conditions and shelf life for Kisqali 200 mg film-coated tablets. The medicine no longer requires refrigeration and now has an authorized shelf life of 2 years. This information letter was issued by the BfArM.

Arixtra Quality Defect: Needle Discoloration and Iron Particle

The German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) issued a notice regarding a quality defect in Arixtra pre-filled syringes. Reports indicate brown discoloration and needle blockage due to oxidized iron particles, posing a risk to patients. Healthcare professionals are instructed not to dispense or administer affected products.

PRAC Recommendations on Safety Signals

The European Medicines Agency's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) has adopted recommendations on safety signals discussed between September 29 and October 2, 2025. These recommendations are directly actionable by marketing authorisation holders (MAHs) for both Centrally Authorised Products (CAPs) and Nationally Authorised Products (NAPs).

PRAC Recommendations on Safety Signals

The European Medicines Agency's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) has adopted recommendations on safety signals discussed in February 2026. These recommendations require marketing authorisation holders (MAHs) to provide supplementary information or take regulatory action, such as updating product information.

PRAC Recommendations on Signals - January 2026 Meeting

The European Medicines Agency's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) has adopted recommendations on safety signals discussed in January 2026. Marketing Authorisation Holders (MAHs) for affected medicinal products are required to update product information within specified timelines.

PRAC Recommendations on Safety Signals

The European Medicines Agency's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) has adopted recommendations on safety signals discussed in November 2025. Marketing Authorisation Holders (MAHs) are required to provide supplementary information or update product information based on these recommendations, with specific deadlines for certain signals.

PRAC Recommendations on Safety Signals

The European Medicines Agency's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) has adopted recommendations on safety signals discussed in their October 2025 meeting. These recommendations are directly actionable by marketing authorisation holders (MAHs) for updates to product information.

ANSM Safety Alert for Manosplint Cushionfoam Medical Device

The French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM) has issued a safety alert regarding the Manosplint Cushionfoam medical device, identified by safety action number R2606620. This alert concerns a safety action initiated by the manufacturer, Kinetec SAS.

Spinal Plug Safety Alert for Pharmacies

The French ANSM has been informed of a lot recall action for spinal plugs (Airplug T10-T12) by Groupe Lépine, registered under action number R2607057. Pharmacies are directed to consult the provided letter from the manufacturer for details.

Safety alert for DermaGenius 3.0 reagent

The French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM) has issued a safety alert regarding the DermaGenius 3.0 Complete Multiplex real-time PCR reagent. This alert, registered under number R2607183, informs medical biology analysis laboratories of a security action implemented by PathoNostics.

ANSM Safety Information: Mobile Hoist and Bath Elevator

The French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM) has issued safety information regarding a mobile hoist and bath elevator from Mangar International. This notice, registered under number R2607055, alerts home healthcare providers and retailers to a safety action implemented by the manufacturer.

ArjoHuntleigh Tenor Mobile Hoist Safety Alert

The French National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM) has announced a product recall for the ArjoHuntleigh Tenor mobile hoist. This action, registered under number R2606757, is being implemented by the manufacturer ArjoHuntleigh AB.

Health Product Shortages in Canada: 2024-2025 Review

Health Canada has released its review of health product shortages for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The report details drug and medical device shortages, including reporting requirements for manufacturers and highlights of high-impact cases. It notes a decrease in new drug shortage reports compared to the previous year.

Health Canada Implements ICH Pharmaceutical Guidelines

Health Canada is implementing new International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines for pharmaceuticals, including M13A and Q12/Q14. These implemented ICH guidelines will take precedence over existing Health Canada guidance documents where discrepancies exist, potentially leading to amendments or withdrawals of current guidance.

ICH Consultations on Patient Preference, Extractables, and Adaptive Trials

Health Canada announced three International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) draft guidelines are open for public consultation. The consultations cover patient preference studies, extractables and leachables, and adaptive clinical trials, with comment deadlines ranging from November 2025 to April 2026.

Health Canada Implements ICH Q12 and Q14 Guidance

Health Canada has announced the implementation of International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) Q12 and Q14 guidance. The initial scope focuses on Post Approval Change Management Protocols (PACMPs) for Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate products, with further implementation details to follow.

Health Canada Proposes Reliance on Foreign Drug Authority Decisions

Health Canada is proposing a new Ministerial Reliance Order (MRO) that would allow the Minister to examine new drug submissions by relying on decisions from foreign regulatory authorities. This initiative is part of a broader Red Tape Review aimed at facilitating earlier drug availability in Canada while maintaining safety and quality standards. A 70-day consultation period is currently underway.

Lidl US Recalls Chocolate Ladybugs Due to Undeclared Hazelnut

Lidl US is recalling all lots of Favorina Chocolate Ladybugs - German-Style Nougat due to undeclared hazelnut allergen. The product was distributed to Lidl US stores in several East Coast states between January and March 2026. Consumers with hazelnut allergies are at risk of serious reactions.

Insulet Recalls Omnipod 5 Pods Due to Manufacturing Issue

Insulet Corporation is initiating a voluntary medical device correction for specific lots of Omnipod 5 Pods due to a manufacturing issue that may cause insulin leaks. The FDA has been notified of this action, which impacts approximately 1.5% of global production. Customers can check lot numbers online and request replacement pods.

HSA Seizes Over $1.1M in Vaporisers

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) seized over $1.1 million worth of vaporisers in an operation on February 24, 2026. New penalties under the Tobacco and Vaporisers Control Act (TVCA) will take effect from May 1, 2026, targeting importers, suppliers, and premises owners.

WHO Expert Committee on Specifications for Pharmaceutical Preparations 57th Report

The WHO Expert Committee on Specifications for Pharmaceutical Preparations has released its 57th report, recommending new and revised guidance texts for pharmaceutical quality assurance. These include updated GMP for excipients, new GMP for radiopharmaceutical cold kits, revised lab quality control practices, and updated biowaiver guidelines.

WHO Expert Committee on Pharmaceutical Preparations Meeting

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced the Sixtieth meeting of the Expert Committee on Specifications for Pharmaceutical Preparations, scheduled for October 12-16, 2026. This committee advises the Director-General on medicine quality assurance and the maintenance of The International Pharmacopoeia.

WHO Expert Committee Adopts New Pharmaceutical Guidance

The WHO Expert Committee on Specifications for Pharmaceutical Preparations has adopted nine new guidance texts aimed at ensuring the quality assurance of medicines. These texts cover areas such as nitrosamine prevention, good manufacturing practices for excipients, and bioequivalence assessments, and are recommended for implementation.

WHO Expert Committee on Biological Standardization Eightieth Report

The World Health Organization has published the eightieth report of its Expert Committee on Biological Standardization. This report details the proceedings and recommendations from the committee's meeting held in October 2024, focusing on the norms and standards for biological products.

DEA Announces 10,744 Arrests in DC Safety Initiative

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced 10,744 arrests as part of an initiative to enhance safety in Washington D.C. The operation involved collaboration between local and federal law enforcement agencies, with the goal of removing illicit substances from communities.

EMA PRAC Warns of Aseptic Meningitis Risk with Ixchiq Vaccine

The EMA's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) has recommended updating the product information for the chikungunya vaccine Ixchiq to reflect recent evidence of aseptic meningitis risk, particularly in healthy young adults. This follows a safety signal investigation and is part of a regular safety assessment.

FDA Extends Drug Use Dates Due to Shortages

The FDA has extended the use dates for specific lots of certain drugs to help alleviate drug shortages. This guidance allows providers and patients to use these lots beyond their labeled expiration dates, based on manufacturer stability data. The agency is not requiring relabeling but expects replacement and disposal when new product becomes available.

FDA Report on Drug Shortage Prevention Efforts

The FDA has released its annual report to Congress detailing efforts in calendar year 2024 to prevent and mitigate drug shortages. The report highlights successful interventions that prevented 283 potential shortages, with only 15 new shortages identified.

FDA Drug Shortage Update

The FDA has updated its list of current and resolved drug shortages. The notice indicates 56 drugs are currently in shortage, 45 have been resolved, and 11 have been discontinued. This update provides a snapshot of the ongoing drug supply situation.

DEA Reports 10,712 Arrests and Reduced Drug Availability

The DEA announced 10,712 arrests and a reduction in drug availability on the streets of Washington, D.C. This enforcement action, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, aims to improve public safety and reduce crime.

DEA Seizes $600,000 from Semi-Truck Driver

The DEA Houston Division announced the seizure of over $600,000 from a semi-truck driver suspected of transporting funds for Mexican cartels. The seizure was a joint effort with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

FDA Novel Drug Approvals 2025

The FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) approved 46 novel drugs in 2025, meaning they were new and never before marketed in the U.S. The agency has released a report detailing these approvals, including drug names, active ingredients, and their approved uses.

FDA Novel Drug Approvals in 2022

The FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) approved 37 novel drugs in 2022, including new molecular entities (NMEs) and new therapeutic biological products (BLAs). This notice summarizes these approvals and provides a link to the full report.

FDA Novel Drug Approvals in 2023

The FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) approved 55 novel drugs in 2023, representing new therapies not previously marketed in the U.S. The agency released a report detailing these approvals and their uses.

FDA Approves 5 New Novel Drugs in 2026

The FDA has announced the approval of five new novel drugs in 2026 for various medical conditions. These approvals include treatments for achondroplasia, hyperarginemia, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, atopic dermatitis, and Menkes disease. The agency updated its list of novel drug therapy approvals.

FDA Novel Drug Approvals 2024

The FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) approved 50 novel drugs in 2024, representing new molecular entities never before marketed in the U.S. This notice provides a list of these approvals and links to detailed reports and drug information.

NIH Extends Common Forms Timeline for Biographical Sketch and Other Support

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has extended the leniency period for implementing Common Forms for Biographical Sketch and Current and Pending (Other) Support until May 2026. This notice adjusts the original January 25, 2026 deadline to allow the extramural community more time for adoption and compliance.

NIH Reminder: IRB Approval Certification Required Before Award

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) issued a notice reminding the extramural research community that certification of Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval is required before award for nonexempt human subjects research. Funds cannot be used for such research without this certification, which must be the date of final IRB approval, not pending or expired.