The European Medicines Agency announced revisions to its conflict-of-interest rules after a court ruling linked some experts to industry ties. The policy update is aimed at ensuring impartial assessments of medicines by reducing undue corporate influence and safeguarding public trust in its regulatory process.

The European Medicines Agency rejected Lilly’s Alzheimer’s drug, determining that its risks outweigh its benefits. This regulatory decision aims to protect public health and maintain ethical oversight over pharmaceutical practices.

An investigative report by EUobserver details how the European Medicines Agency has come under fire for its deep financial reliance on industry fees and the revolving door of former agency insiders advising Big Pharma. The renewal of Ocaliva’s conditional marketing authorization despite safety concerns exemplifies the agency’s compromised regulatory processes and potential regulatory capture.

The European Medicines Agency will have increased oversight powers to monitor and mitigate shortages of critical medicinal products and devices, following a provisional agreement endorsed by the European Parliament. New initiatives include the creation of two shortages steering groups and the establishment of the European Shortages Monitoring Platform, enhancing transparency and collaboration among supply chain stakeholders.