science
Democratic lawmakers seek details on special access to experimental obesity drug
Two members of Congress are asking the White House for information on a 79-year-old patient granted early access to an experimental obesity treatment. The request follows reporting that the drug was provided through the FDA's compassionate use program.
Jun 25, 11:31 AM·1m read2 sources
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Democratic lawmakers have asked the White House for information on a 79-year-old patient who received early access to an experimental obesity drug in April. The patient, who has refractory obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, and pulmonary hypertension, obtained the drug through the FDA's compassionate use program.
This pathway allows patients with serious or immediately life-threatening conditions to receive experimental treatments.
Congressional inquiry Representatives from the House Oversight Committee sent letters to the White House and the Department of Health and Human Services requesting details on how the patient was selected. The lawmakers cited public interest in the case and asked whether the patient is a government official or another prominent individual.
Drug and company background Eli Lilly developed the drug, known as retatrutide, for obesity treatment. The company and the FDA approved the compassionate use request, according to reporting by STAT. The FDA has not commented on the specific case but maintains that compassionate use decisions are based on medical criteria.
