Missing Data Raise Doubts on Johnson & Johnson Drug-US FDA Staff

U.S. drug reviewers said missing data for Johnson & Johnson's blood thinner Xarelto raised doubts about whether the drug actually reduced the risk of new heart attacks and strokes in people with heart problems. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration staff also said it was doubtful the pill reduced the risk of death in patients with acute coronary syndrome, which analysts had seen as the drug's most important advantage for treating this heart condition. An FDA advisory panel of outside experts will vote Wednesday on whether to recommend the drug. The FDA usually follows panel recommendations, although it is not required to. The agency is due to make a final decision on Xarelto by the end of June.