Federal health advisers are recommending broader access to controversial chemicals called peptides. The unapproved injections have become a popular wellness trend, promoted by influencers and celebrities. A panel of advisers narrowly voted Thursday to ease access to BPC-157 and several other peptides. The two-day meeting comes at the direction of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has described himself as a “big fan” of peptides. Some experts invited by the FDA have financial ties to the peptide industry, including several doctors who run clinics that offer the injections.

The Trump administration says it's deferring over $1 billion in Medicaid payments to Minnesota and California because of suspected fraud and noncompliance. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Tuesday the move aims to prevent fraud before it occurs, rather than recovering money after prosecution. The move is part of the administration's strategy to crack down on fraud amid rising healthcare costs. But this approach has come with errors and lack of evidence in some cases. Kennedy says states can regain the funding by proving the legitimacy of payments. Minnesota's state Medicaid director said federal officials hadn't explained the basis of the deferral amount to the state. He accused the federal government of leading a “war on Medicaid.”

France's National Assembly has given final approval to a bill allowing adults with incurable illnesses to receive lethal medication. But the 291-241 vote in the lower house of parliament doesn’t mean the bill immediately becomes law. There will be a review to determine if it complies with the French Constitution. The approval on Wednesday marked the culmination of years of debate over end-of-life care. The bill will establish a right to medically assisted dying under strict conditions. The Senate rejected the bill but the National Assembly had the final say. The bill will be reviewed by the Constitutional Council.

Actor Patrick Dempsey said Wednesday that he will not run for a Maine Senate seat, quashing speculation that the “Grey’s Anatomy” star and Peo…

NEW YORK (AP) — Middle-income Americans straining to pay for Affordable Care Act health insurance are unlikely to get relief next year, accord…