What Do They Do, Anyway?

For those of you just getting into translational or clinical applications, the New York Times has a good overview of just what it is that FDA does. While FDA is charged with the oversight of safety issues for cosmetics, drugs, food, medical devices, and other products, it does not give each group the same level of scrutiny. For example, it does not test dietary supplements or homeopathic medicines, though it will take action if they are proven unsafe. For drugs, both over-the-counter and prescription, FDA requires that companies prove they are safe and effective.