FDA urged to address nanotechnology safety

WASHINGTON, July 25 (UPI) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Nanotechnology Task Force released a report Wednesday urging the agency consider addressing nanotechnology risks.

"Nanotechnology holds enormous potential for use in a vast array of products," said FDA Commissioner Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach, who officially endorsed the report and its recommendations Monday. "Recognizing the emerging nature of this technology and its potential for rapid development, this report fosters the continued development of innovative, safe and effective FDA-regulated products that use nanotechnology materials."

The report noted that nanoscale materials potentially could be used in most product types regulated by the FDA and such materials present challenges similar to those posed by products using other emerging technologies. The report cautioned, however, nanotechnological challenges might be complicated by the fact that properties relevant to product safety and effectiveness may change as size varies within the nanoscale.

The task force recommended the FDA assess data needs to better regulate nanotechnology products, including biological effects and interactions of nanoscale materials. The agency also was urged to evaluate the adequacy of current testing approaches to assess safety, effectiveness and quality of nanoscale materials.