Califf seeks new authorities to approve opioids, mum on mifepristone

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) should be given the authority to approve new opioid drugs based on superior safety compared to currently marketed products, said Commissioner Robert Califf at a 19 April hearing before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee. However, he refused to comment on a recent court ruling that nullifies the agency’s approval of mifepristone.