The fda mission statement reads in part: “The fda is responsible for protecting
public health by assuring safety, efficacy and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products …, our Nations food supply …”
“The fda is also responsible for … helping public get accurate, science based information they need to use medicines and foods to improve their health.”
With that mission statement in mind, let’s take a look at this tragic situation:
As reported by Associated Press on February 14th, 2005 –
Canada has ordered removal of a drug for adhd – Adderall XR, Because of links to 20 sudden deaths and 12 strokes from people taking this drug. 14 of these deaths were children and 2 of 12 strokes were children who were taking drug.
None of these deaths or strokes took place in Canada and none of reactions were from misuse or abuse of drug. The reactions were from normal consumption of drug.
Canada is also asking makers of similar drugs for treating this condition, “to provide a thorough review of their worldwide safety data.”
In stark contrast to Canadian reaction, here is statement from United States fda –
“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, however, said it had evaluated same reports on Adderall XR and doesn’t think data warrants similar action in United States.”
Let’s get this straight – Canada has ordered drug to be pulled off market in their country.
