X-Message-Number: 9591 Date: Sat, 2 May 1998 03:50:04 -0400 From: Saul Kent <> Subject: Cryonics And FDA Regulation Charles Platt (msg 9572) expresses concern over the spectre of FDA regulation of cryonics when it becomes more popular. Charles states that he fears this most "since I cannot imagine the FDA in its current form *ever* approving the multifactorial approach that seems necessary to inhibit the toxic cascade which follows cardiac arrest." As someone who has had considerable experience with the FDA, I think the issue of FDA regulation of cryonics is likely to be a relatively minor problem. First, the FDA only has the right to regulate treatments given to living people. I believe that, once we begin to publish scientific advances in cryopreser- vation, the credibility of cryonics will rise gradually, as will its popularity. I believe there is likely to be a lengthy period of gradual progress in these areas before suspended animation is achieved. I don't believe FDA regulation will be an issue during this period. Second, the FDA doesn't have any jurisdiction over the practice of medicine, only over the approval of drugs. As a result, I don't think FDA regulation is likely to be a major factor in the practice of cryonics, even after suspended animation is achieved. The main role the FDA is likely to play is in the regulation of "devices" required for suspended animation. Third, the FDA is first and foremost a political animal. If there is widespread medical and public support for suspended animation as a medical procedure, it will be relatively easy, I believe, to overcome any roadblocks (legal or otherwise) thrown up by the FDA in an attempt to thwart the practice of suspended animation. ---Saul Kent, CEO 21st Century Medicine Rate This Message: http://www.cryonet.org/cgi-bin/rate.cgi?msg=9591