FDA approves 23 new drugs in first half, marking best pace in three years despite staff cuts

The FDA announced that it has approved 23 novel drugs during the first half of 2026, the strongest approval count in three years.

The approvals come after the Trump administration reduced FDA staffing in April 2025, a move that had raised concerns about a potential slowdown in the agency's review process.

Despite the reduced workforce, the agency’s output suggests it can maintain a steady pace of drug approvals, reassuring investors and industry observers.