Top FDA drug official is trying to hire a friend who’s seeking a bold new warning on antidepressants

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 6 min read 100% complete by By MATTHEW PERRONEMarch 4, 2026 at 06:53 PM

AI Summary

long article 6 min

Dr. Tracy Beth Hoeg, a top FDA drug regulator, is attempting to hire Dr. Adam Urato, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, as a full-time FDA employee. Urato has petitioned the FDA to add a boxed warning to SSRI antidepressants, citing potential pregnancy complications and fetal abnormalities. Hoeg's close relationship with Urato is viewed internally as a conflict of interest, but she is reportedly working to expedite the review of his proposal. Outside experts are concerned that the petition relies on weak data and a new warning could lead pregnant women to stop taking necessary medication, risking their health. SSRIs are commonly prescribed antidepressants, and over 15% of U.S. women take medication for depression.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Atlanta 30% Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 30% University of Virginia 40% Jennifer Payne 50% Adam Urato ×480% Food and Drug Administration ×480% Tracy Beth Hoeg ×590%

Keywords

antidepressants 100% fda 90% pregnancy risks 80% conflict of interest 70% boxed warning 70% ssri 60% drug safety 50% maternal mental illness 50% fetal abnormalities 40%