Introduction

Dr. Adena Yau, PharmD, chose a career in pharmacy because it blends science, health care, service, and innovation. Driven by a desire to help patients understand their therapies and collaborate with other healthcare professionals, Dr. Yau has built a career dedicated to improving public health. As a Consumer Safety Officer at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, she reviews medical products for regulatory compliance, investigates product-related safety concerns, and works to protect the public from unsafe or deceptive medical products. Through her role, she combines pharmacy expertise with regulatory oversight to ensure that patients and communities remain safe.

Why Pharmacy

I chose pharmacy because it combines science, health care, service, and innovation. I wanted to help people understand their medication therapies and work alongside other healthcare professionals. This career allows me to serve patients meaningfully and have an impact on public health.

Career Journey

Currently, I am a Consumer Safety Officer at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Previously, I completed a Postgraduate Year 1 Pharmacy Residency program with the Indian Health Service. I attained my Pharmacist Clinician licensure and provided critical pharmacy services to underserved populations in rural communities.

Current Role and Responsibilities

I review medical products to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. I also investigate complaints of injury, illness, or death caused by an FDA-regulated product. I utilize my pharmacy skills and scientific knowledge to critically evaluate manufacturing and production processes to minimize the risk of harmful products reaching consumers.

Challenges

The most challenging aspect of my career is juggling the daily workload while prioritizing high-risk cases.

Rewards

The most rewarding aspect of my career is knowing that my work directly protects the public from unsafe, ineffective, or deceptive medical products.

I was part of a team operation to remove a dangerous, unapproved drug from the U.S. market. This drug was a public health threat with risk of overdose, death, and other serious adverse events. Our team acted swiftly to raise public awareness of the danger of the product and prevent its distribution.

Work/Life Balance

I choose to prioritize my peace and wellness. I try to say yes to projects or work that resonate with my goals and passions. I block off time to dedicate to exercising regularly and spending time with family and friends.

Advice for Students and Aspiring Professionals

There are many opportunities to use your pharmacy degree beyond a traditional pharmacist career. Have a strong mission statement and use that as compass to explore the many paths available to you.