Pharmalittle: Califf admits Alzheimer’s drug controversy has hurt expert trust in FDA; House passes bill to lower insulin costs

And so, another working week will soon draw to a close. Not a moment too soon, yes? This is, you may recall, our treasured signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda, so far, is exceedingly modest. We plan to catch up on our reading, take a few naps, have a listening party with Mrs. Pharmalot, and promenade with the official mascot. And what about you? Now that spring has started springing, this can be a fine time to enjoy the great outdoors. You could stock up on sundry items before prices continue to rise or plan a summer break. Or perhaps this is an opportunity to take stock, given current events. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you soon…

Robert Califf, the new head of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, admitted that the agency’s controversial approval of the Alzheimer’s drug from Biogen has diminished its standing with experts, STAT tells us. “It’s pretty clear that the controversy around this has temporarily impacted the trust in the FDA by people who pay attention to these things,” he said, while adding that he does not feel the broader public has lost trust in the FDA. But Califf largely declined to explain how he plans to deal with the continued fallout of the Aduhelm approval or how he plans to win back trust among critics of the decision. Both Congress and a federal watchdog are investigating the approval.