Supreme Court medication abortion case threatens ‘seismic shift' in FDA drug approval process, experts warn

In 1937, a drugmaker developed a new formulation of a medicine called sulfanilamide. The drug was meant to treat sore throats and had a raspberry flavor. However, the new formulation contained diethylene glycol, a poisonous substance. Over 100 people, mostly children, died after taking the drug. This incident led Congress to pass the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, which gave the FDA the power to require safety and effectiveness testing for drugs. The Supreme Court is now hearing a case that could potentially impact the FDA’s authority. The case revolves around mifepristone, a medication used in abortion. If the court ruling favors the plaintiffs, it could open the door for challenges to FDA-approved drugs based on ideology rather than science. This could have significant implications for public health and the pharmaceutical industry.