The Readout Loud 377: Melodrama at the FDA and the Pfizer-Novo bidding war
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Nov 6, 2025 Lizzy Lawrence, STAT's D.C. correspondent specializing in FDA and health policy, joins to discuss a brewing crisis within the FDA. She reveals leadership disputes between Vinay Prasad and his team, leading to declining morale and multiple staff exits. The shock departure of director George Tidmarsh for allegedly misusing his position adds to the turmoil. The conversation also touches on the heated bidding war between Pfizer and Novo Nordisk for the desirable MetSera assets, highlighting the competitive landscape in the obesity treatment market.
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Leadership Style Created A Chilling Culture
- Vinay Prasad's hands-on, academic style and sudden personnel moves created fear and high attrition at CBER.
- Reviewers felt chilled by direct messages and overturned decisions, prompting transfers to other FDA centers.
Senior Staff Walked Out In Shock
- Several senior CBER leaders were suddenly escorted out, including Nicole Verdun and Rachel Anatole, which alarmed staff.
- Prasad also ousted the head of biostatistics and the head clinical reviewer, deepening unrest and turnover.
Political Backing Limits Rapid Removal
- Complaints and HR filings have followed the turmoil, but political capital may protect Prasad for now.
- Removing him again would likely require strong action given White House backing earlier this year.