FDA Drug Evaluation Chief Richard Pazdur to Retire Weeks After Appointment

FDA Drug Evaluation Chief Richard Pazdur to Retire Weeks After Appointment

LN24 / 5 minutes

December 2, 2025

2 min read

Richard Pazdur, the head of drug evaluation at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is set to retire just weeks after assuming the role, the agency confirmed. Pazdur, a longtime leader in oncology regulation, took over on November 11, succeeding George Tidmarsh, who resigned amid concerns over his personal conduct.

A spokesperson highlighted Pazdur’s 26 years of service at the FDA, describing his tenure as distinguished. A federal health official confirmed that his departure is imminent, dismissing earlier reports suggesting he might retract his resignation.

Pazdur’s exit comes amid broader leadership changes at the FDA under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Earlier this year, longtime vaccine chief Peter Marks was replaced by Vinay Prasad, an ally of FDA Commissioner Marty Makary. Shortly after taking the new position, Pazdur expressed concerns about a fast-approval pathway introduced by Makary, citing potential public health risks and legal issues. Questions over drug review procedures, leadership involvement in regulatory decisions, and hiring practices reportedly contributed to his decision.

Pazdur joined the FDA in 1999, became director of the Office of Oncology Drug Products in 2005, and is credited with accelerating the review of numerous cancer therapies. Analysts suggest his departure may heighten uncertainty for the biotech sector.