STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about Roche accusing U.S. of ‘blackmail,’ a ruling on skinny labels, and more

STAT PlusNewsletterPharmalot Pharmalittle: We’re reading about Roche accusing U.S. of ‘blackmail,’ a ruling on skinny labels, and more FDA has launched a safety study of the mifepristone abortion pill Manage alerts for this article Email this article Share this article By Ed SilvermanJune 5, 2026 Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer Ed Silverman[email protected]Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morning Pharmalittle newsletter and the afternoon Pharmalot newsletter. And so, another working week will soon draw to a close. Not a moment too soon, yes? This is, you may recall, our treasured signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda includes promenading with the official mascots, catching some live musical vibes, and looking in on the Pharmalot ancestor. We also hope to squeeze in yet another listening party, where the rotation will likely include this, this, this, this and this. And what about you? Summer is closing in so this may be an opportunity to book a getaway, find some fab beach gear, or compile a challenging reading list. You could hit the pause button and catch up on your naps. Or maybe there is time to hang with someone special. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you soon. … Leaders at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration listened to criticisms and recommendations for how to move forward with a speedy drug review program put in place by former FDA commissioner Marty Makary, STAT tells us. The listening session, held on the FDA’s White Oak Campus, featured 17 speakers representing patient groups, drug companies, and academic organizations. Some had positive feedback, particularly those whose drugs have already been approved through the program. But most asked the agency to pause the program, and then bring it back through normal regulatory procedures that require public feedback. Advertisement Meanwhile, the FDA has launched a safety study of the mifepristone abortion pill, a step that could pave the way for the Trump administration to restrict how it is distributed and used, The Wall Street Journal reports. The study marks a victory for antiabortion groups and Republican members of Congress, who have demanded action from the administration to crack down on the pill’s use. In recent months, antiabortion allies had lost patience with assurances from administration officials that a study would be conducted. The effort is expected to take about six months, meaning it likely will not be completed before the midterm elections. 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 pharmalittle, STAT+ Submit a correction requestReprints Ed Silverman Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morning Pharmalittle newsletter and the afternoon Pharmalot newsletter. Newsletter Understand how science, health policy, and medicine shape the world every day Recommended Pharmalot June 4, 2026 STAT Plus: Supreme Court backs generic drugmaker in ‘skinny labeling’ case Pharmalot June 4, 2026 STAT Plus: For pancreatic cancer patients, an exciting drug can feel out of reach Advertisement Pharmalot June 4, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about fewer pharma investments in Germany, growing U.S. layoffs, and more Pharmalot June 3, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about GLP-1 drugs and knees, FDA cell and gene therapy guidance, and more Pharmalot June 2, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about a Lilly threat to 340B hospitals, Ebola vaccine funding, and more Subscriber Picks