Blackstone backs Pfizer's monthly obesity treatment, while FDA nominee faces a tight vote

Blackstone is providing financial backing for Pfizer's development of a monthly obesity treatment. In regulatory news, the Senate health committee is scheduled to vote next Wednesday on Heidi Overton’s nomination to lead the FDA. Committee Chair Bill Cassidy remains undecided, describing her past role in shaping the Trump administration's vaccine policies as nearly disqualifying. Given the political split, a single Republican defection could block the nomination if all Democrats vote against her. Additionally, drugmaker Bristol Myers Squibb has restructured its research and development organization. Current Chief Medical Officer Cristian Massacesi has assumed the additional role of head of R&D, while Robert Plenge, the current chief of research, will step down in March. Separately, Reuters reports that the FDA has shelved its Commissioner’s National Priority Voucher program.