Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- reliance /ri-LAHY-uhns/
- efficacy /EF-i-kuh-see/
- deliberative / dih-LIB-er-uh-tiv,/
- autonomy /aw-TON-uh-mee/
- undermine /UHN-der-mahyn/
[reliance] – the state of depending on or trusting someone or something
Many people have a strong reliance on their smartphones for daily tasks.
[noun] – the ability to produce a desired or intended result
Researchers are studying the efficacy of the new vaccine in preventing disease.
[adjective] – involving careful thought or discussion before making a decision
The committee held a deliberative meeting to discuss the proposed changes.
[noun] – the right or condition of self-government; independence
The region gained autonomy after decades of negotiations.
[verb] – to weaken or damage something, especially gradually
Criticizing your teammate in public can undermine their confidence.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a review of oral phenylephrine, a common ingredient in over-the-counter decongestant medications. This action follows studies indicating that phenylephrine may not effectively relieve nasal congestion, despite being widely used in medicines for decades. The review process, initiated in September 2023, is taking place across the United States and aims to evaluate whether phenylephrine should remain an approved ingredient for such products. This development arises due to concerns about consumer reliance on ineffective treatments and the potential impact on public health. Regulatory officials emphasized the importance of ensuring the efficacy of all products available to the public.
The FDA’s review process involves several stages, beginning with a six-month period for public comments. Consumers, researchers, and pharmaceutical companies are invited to submit opinions and data during this phase. After reviewing the feedback, the FDA will determine whether to revoke approval for phenylephrine or suggest reformulation of the affected medications. This deliberative process allows manufacturers adequate time to adapt to potential changes, ensuring minimal disruption in supply. Industry representatives have expressed a preference for retaining phenylephrine-based options, arguing that consumer autonomy in self-care is paramount. However, experts such as Dr. Hatton have emphasized the importance of prioritizing effective solutions, suggesting that continued reliance on ineffective remedies undermines public trust. This ongoing debate underscores the need for balance between consumer choice and scientific rigor in ensuring the quality and reliability of pharmaceutical products.
The FDA’s review process involves several stages, beginning with a six-month period for public comments. Consumers, researchers, and pharmaceutical companies are invited to submit opinions and data during this phase. After reviewing the feedback, the FDA will determine whether to revoke approval for phenylephrine or suggest reformulation of the affected medications. This deliberative process allows manufacturers adequate time to adapt to potential changes, ensuring minimal disruption in supply. Industry representatives have expressed a preference for retaining phenylephrine-based options, arguing that consumer autonomy in self-care is paramount. However, experts such as Dr. Hatton have emphasized the importance of prioritizing effective solutions, suggesting that continued reliance on ineffective remedies undermines public trust. This ongoing debate underscores the need for balance between consumer choice and scientific rigor in ensuring the quality and reliability of pharmaceutical products.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever used a medicine that didn’t work as you expected? If so, how did you feel, and what did you do next? If not, do you always check how effective a medicine is before using it?
- Do you often rely on over-the-counter medicines for common health problems like colds or headaches? If so, which ones do you find most effective? If not, how do you usually treat these issues?
- Do you agree that ineffective medicines should be removed from the market?
- Why do you think people rely on over-the-counter medicines even if their effectiveness is questioned?
- What could be the long-term impact of allowing ineffective medicines to remain available?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- announce
- initiate
- involve
- adequate
- reliability