GMP Tips - Are We Getting Closer to an FDA Commissioner? - August 21, 2006

President George W. Bush has come under increasing pressure from anti-abortion groups to withdraw his nomination of Andrew von Eschenbach to the post of FDA Commissioner.

At his Press Conference on Monday, Aug 21, President Bush was asked about his support for von Eschenbach and his recent decision to seek over-the-counter (OTC) status for the emergency contraception drug Plan B, more commonly referred to as the “morning after” pill.

When asked by reporter Bill Sammon about the situation, Bush stated: “I believe that Plan B ought to be -- ought to require a prescription for minors, is what I believe. And I support Andy's decision.”

Von Eschenbach's nomination to the permanent job of commissioner has been held up for months by Democrats who assert that the decision on Plan B has been delayed for political reasons.

In July, Von Eschenbach said Plan B could be used safely and effectively for women 18 and older as long as younger people could not buy it without a doctor's note.

Plan B, approved as a prescription in 1999, is a set of two high-dose hormone pills that can prevent pregnancy if taken within 72 hours of sexual intercourse.

Test your political instincts.
Do you think the Senate will confirm von Eschenbach, or will his confirmation continue to be blocked until after the election, when Democrats hope to have a majority in the Senate? Send us an e-mail at info@GMPTrainingSystems.com with your prediction.

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