STAT+: AstraZeneca picks up FDA approval for hypertension drug

STAT PlusNewsletterThe Readout AstraZeneca picks up FDA approval for hypertension drug The China question, FDA leadership shakeups, and other biotech news from The Readout Manage alerts for this article Email this article Share this article By Meghana KeshavanMay 18, 2026 Biotech Correspondent Meghana Keshavan[email protected]Meghana Keshavan covers biotech and contributes to The Readout newsletter. Want to stay on top of the science and politics driving biotech today? Sign up to get our biotech newsletter in your inbox. Today we’re bringing you a special report: a fascinating look at how China’s growing role in global drug development is deeply dividing the U.S. biotech industry, with executives openly debating whether reliance on Chinese partners is a competitive necessity or a national security risk.Advertisement Meanwhile, the FDA’s leadership shakeup has widened, with both CBER and CDER getting new acting directors, among other changes. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in Monthly $39 Totals $468 per year $39/month Get Started Totals $468 per year Starter $30 for 3 months, then $399/year $30 for 3 months Get Started Then $399/year Annual $399 Save 15% $399/year Get Started Save 15% 11+ Users Custom Savings start at 25%! Request A Quote Request A Quote Savings start at 25%! 2-10 Users $300 Annually per user $300/year Get Started $300 Annually per user View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Log In biotechnology, drug development, Drug prices, research Submit a correction requestReprints Meghana Keshavan Biotech Correspondent Meghana Keshavan covers biotech and contributes to The Readout newsletter. Newsletter Your morning rundown of the science, politics, and money driving biotech today Recommended Biotech May 18, 2026 STAT Plus: Supreme Court rejects challenge to Medicare drug price negotiation Special Report May 18, 2026 STAT Plus: The China question is tearing biotech apart Advertisement The Readout May 15, 2026 STAT Plus: A political contest in the U.K. could shake up drug pricing D.C. Diagnosis May 14, 2026 STAT Plus: The hunt for FDA’s next leader The Readout May 14, 2026 STAT Plus: BeOne wins FDA approval in lymphoma race Subscriber Picks