US FDA scientists and immunological experts discussed the latest science regarding patients’ biological reactions to metal implants and mercury in dental amalgam at a 13-14 November agency advisory committee meeting. The get-together was held to determine what additional actions the FDA can take to make sure certain patients are protected from immunological risks of the implants. The panel ultimately backed a transition away from mercury amalgam dental fillings and pushed for more research into risks associated with metal implants.
At a recent US Food and Drug Administration Immunological Devices Advisory Panel meeting, agency and outside scientists explored the risks of human sensitivities and immunological reactions to implanted metal devices in an effort to better protect patients from any harms caused by the devices.
“Recent issues with metal-on-metal hips and gynecological metal implants have heightened concerns about safety,” Stephen Weber, a medical officer in...