FDA mulls new safety powers

WASHINGTON - FDA officials are considering a wide range of responses to public concern over the safety of medical products, including taking steps that would increase the agency's control over the way new products are distributed and prescribed.

A new report to FDA Commissioner Jane Henney last week reflects the view of many senior FDA officials that improved drug safety can be achieved by extending the FDA's reach to include placing limits on which physicians can prescribe some new drugs, as well as the number and characteristics of patients who can receive them...