FDA panel recommends Exubera

An FDA Advisory panel recommended that the FDA approve inhaled insulin drug Exubera. If the FDA follows the advisory panel --which it usually, but not always does-- it will be a sign that they have not become totally risk averse. As a commenter pointed out in response to yesterday's post,

Diabetes is a condition with so much morbidity and mortality that the existence of minor problems and the possibility of unforeseen problems are risks people are willing to take.

It's a good thing if the FDA lets patients take those risks. It's up to doctors, pharmacists, and the patients themselves to make sure they understand the risks and benefits.