Free speech can wait?

Executive Summary

FDA should extend the timeline for responses to a request-for-comment on First Amendment issues, Pfizer and the Pharmaceutical Research & Manufacturers of America tells the agency. "As an institutional matter, Pfizer is committing substantial time and resources to reviewing and responding to the notice," the company said. "Pfizer intends to consult with various experts concerning many of these questions to prepare more fully informed comments." FDA asked for comments by July 30 on the legal basis for its promotional rules with another 45-days for rebuttals (1"The Pink Sheet" May 20, p. 14). PhRMA and Pfizer are asking for a 60-day extension, which would move the final deadline back until the week after Election Day...