The FDA approving an opioid 10 times stronger than fentanyl captured readers' attention the most in 2018.
Below are that story and the four other most-read FDA-related stories published by Becker's Hospital Review this year, in order of the most popular:
1. FDA approves opioid 10 times stronger than fentanyl
The FDA announced its approval Nov. 2 of a new prescription opioid called Dsuvia, despite criticism of the OK in the midst of the opioid epidemic.
2. FDA proposes antibiotic subscription plan for hospitals
FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD, on Sept. 14 outlined the agency's plan to fight antimicrobial resistance, including a proposal for a subscription-based model for hospitals to access antibiotics.
3. Apple Watch: FDA-cleared for electrocardiogram screening
Apple Watch Series 4 includes an electrocardiogram sensor to alert users if their heart rhythm is irregular, Apple COO Jeff Williams said during the company's Sept. 12 event in Cupertino, Calif. At the event, Mr. Williams said the FDA has already cleared the company's ECG sensor.
4. FDA: 6 guidelines to prevent surgical fires
The FDA issueda safety communication May 29 on practices for healthcare providers to reduce the risk of surgical fires, including recommendations for safely using medical devices during surgery.
5. What a government shutdown would mean for the FDA
About 41 percent of the FDA's employees will be furloughed if President Donald Trump and lawmakers cannot agree on a spending bill by Dec. 21 at midnight.