Message from the Director

For over 100 years, FDA has supported research, policies, and outreach to protect and promote women’s health. When Congress passed the Pure Food and Drugs Act in 1906, infections were the leading causes of death and infirmity; and many women suffered due to adulterated and misbranded products. Since that time, there have been many scientific advances that have allowed women and their families to live longer and experience a better quality of life.

This Women’s History Month is a time when we can reflect on how far we have come over the years and new directions for the future. I encourage you to explore the timeline of some of FDA’s accomplishments in women’s health. I also invite you to read about the scientists, field inspectors, doctors and other women who have made notable contributions to FDA and paved the way for future generations of women in STEM. Lastly, I ask that you read this eUpdate to find ways that you too can get involved in FDA’s work. Participate in one of the upcoming workshops and public meetings highlighted here. Share the safety messages and other resources to help women make informed choices about their healthcare. Those early women pioneers showed us that our individual and collective actions can make a difference.

Marsha Henderson, Assistant Commissioner for Women’s Health

WOMEN’S HEALTH HIGHLIGHTS

Viberzi (eluxadoline): Drug Safety Communication - Increased Risk of Serious Pancreatitis In Patients Without A Gallbladder

FDA is warning that Viberzi (eluxadoline), a medicine used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), should not be used in patients who do not have a gallbladder. An FDA review found these patients have an increased risk of developing serious pancreatitis that could result in hospitalization or death. Pancreatitis may be caused by spasm of a certain digestive system muscle in the small intestine. As a result, FDA is working with the Viberzi manufacturer, Allergan, to address these safety concerns.

Read the Drug Safety Communication

Women’s History Month

Throughout its history, FDA has worked to protect the health of women and their families. From issuing warnings about unsafe products for pregnant women to improving mammography quality, women’s health has remained a priority for FDA. This Women’s History Month, celebrate by learning more about FDA’s historical impact on women’s health and some of the trailblazing women who helped to make that work possible.

New Blog: FDA’s Commitment to Women’s Heart Health Research

A new blog from OWH Director, Marsha Henderson, highlights the history of FDA research on QT prolongation and demonstrates the ways ongoing collaborations across FDA research programs are helping to advance policies and projects to protect women’s heart health.

Read the Blog Post

March is Save Your Vision Month

FDA has resources to help women make informed choices about contact lenses for themselves and their children. Share these resources to help women and their families keep their eyes safe.

Print and share the Contact Lens Care Fact Sheet in English and Spanish
Learn the do’s and don’ts of decorative lenses
Use these tips if your child wants contact lenses

Extras

Spring Break Resources

Encourage young women to keep safety in mind while enjoying time away from classes. Share these digital tools with your networks to help keep students safe.

Read our top Spring Break tips
Re-pin our Spring Break pin to your Pinterest board
Follow @FDAWomen on Twitter for Spring Break tips throughout the month

FDA's Food and Cosmetic Information Center Answers Your Questions

FDA’s Food and Cosmetic Information Center (FCIC) answers questions about nutrition and the safety and accurate labeling of food, dietary supplements, and cosmetics. You can contact FCIC by phone and/or e-mail Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1-888-SAFEFOOD (1-888-723-3366) or, submit questions by filling out the online form.

Read the Consumer Update