Pharmaceutical Executive Daily: Dr. Richard Pazdur Appointed as Director CDER

Welcome to Pharmaceutical Executive Daily, your quick briefing on the top news shaping the pharmaceutical and life sciences industry.

In today’s Pharmaceutical Executive Daily, Richard Pazdur is named director of FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Pfizer strengthens focus through strategic partnerships and spin-offs, and CMS launches a new initiative to reduce Medicaid drug costs.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the FDA have appointed Dr. Richard Pazdur as the new director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). A longtime leader at the FDA’s Oncology Center of Excellence, Pazdur will now oversee all drug evaluation and regulatory review processes. His appointment signals a continued push for scientific rigor, innovation, and transparency in the nation’s drug approval system.

Pfizer is refining its R&D and commercial focus through a strategy centered on partnerships, scaling, and selective spin-offs. Company leadership says the move will streamline operations, accelerate innovation, and improve financial flexibility amid shifting market conditions. Analysts view the approach as part of Pfizer’s broader effort to strengthen growth following recent market headwinds and portfolio realignments.

Meanwhile, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced a new initiative to cut Medicaid drug costs while expanding access to affordable medications. The plan includes updated reimbursement models, value-based contracting options, and enhanced state-level purchasing power. The program reflects the administration’s ongoing effort to balance cost control with equitable access across the healthcare system.

Thanks for listening to Pharmaceutical Executive Daily. For more updates and in-depth analysis, visit PharmExec.com.