Al-Ola A Abdallah: Why Vinay Prasad left the FDA
Al-Ola A Abdallah, Director of Plasma Cell Disorder Program at the University of Kansas Medical Center, shared a post on X:
“Why Vinay Prasad left the FDA
Dr. Vinay Prasad joined the FDA in May 2025. He was quickly promoted to Chief Medical and Science Officer in June.
A big leap—followed by a sudden departure
Known for criticizing COVID vaccine mandates and FDA’s pandemic-era approvals, he brought a skeptical voice to regulation. Under his influence, the FDA restricted COVID shots to those 65+ or with major health issues—sparking praise and backlash.
He also paused shipments of Sarepta’s gene therapy (Elevidys) for Duchenne MD after patient deaths—then reversed course.
Safety vs urgency: a tough balancing act. His caution sparked backlash from biotech firms, patient advocates, and Trump-aligned political figures.
“Too slow. Too skeptical.” they said.
Right-wing figures like Laura Loomer called him a “progressive saboteur.” Former Sen. Rick Santorum even chimed in against him.
Sources say he was pushed out under political pressure—despite no official firing. The FDA called it a personal decision.
Official line:
“He didn’t want to be a distraction and will return to California to be with family.”
Duration? Less than 90 days. Some insiders say the FDA needs a steadier, more politically aligned hand at the wheel.
Despite controversy, FDA Commissioner Marty Makary called Prasad “one of the greatest scientific minds of our generation.”
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