The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has joined in the AI race with a new tool called Elsa to help modernize its operations.
In an official video on 2 June, FDA commissioner Marty Makary said the tool was launched agency wide across all departments.
Boosting efficiency
Makary said after a “very successful pilot program”, the agency will use Elsa to expedite scientific clinical reviews, specifically reducing the time required to complete such reviews.
Fortunately, the tool is already yielding impressive results, as according to one scientific reviewer, what used to take three days to complete now only takes six minutes.
The AI tool which is being launched ahead of schedule and on the budget is also, according to some staff of the agency, very effective in conducting expedited label comparisons.
Elsa is also effective for generating code to facilitate the development of databases for non-clinical applications. The agency is also using AI to help inspectors in identifying high-yield inspection targets.
In addressing the question of security, Makary said all information stays within the agency and the models are safely trained.
The FDA adds that this is the first of many initiatives to come in order to help it perform its functions more effectively.
Embracing AI
AI has become popular in several industries, including the medical industry. Many companies are using the technology in the process of drug manufacture, and it is also used in the treatment of certain conditions.
With such a trend, it is logical for the regulatory body in charge of drugs to also employ the same technology in its regulatory functions.
If used well, this can not only improve efficiency but also increase accuracy and reduce the tendency of human errors in the process.
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