Big picture on drug panel personnel

Re “Ties to drug firms continue on FDA review panel,” April 12

The Times’ article on the Food and Drug Administration’s advisory committee selection policy doesn’t present a complete picture. The article suggests that the FDA was lax in appointing three outside specialists to the Arcoxia review committee. In fact, the agency’s screening process was rigorous, and both the FDA and the public benefited from the advice of these exceptionally qualified scientists, whose financial interests were properly disclosed. Contrary to common perceptions, outside advisors who disclose a financial interest are more likely to vote against rather than for an outcome that favors their financial interest. For the Arcoxia meeting, the votes of the three excluded members listed in your article wouldn’t have affected the outcome -- a 20-1 vote against approval.

Ensuring the proper balance between public confidence in our integrity and access to necessary scientific expertise requires a full evaluation. We will consider the public comments, which may be submitted until May 21, before finalizing our policy.

RANDALL LUTTER

Washington

The writer is the associate commissioner for policy and planning at the FDA.