FDA Infectious Disease Chief Adam Sherwat to Depart Agency

WASHINGTON — Adam Sherwat, M.D., director of the Office of Infectious Diseases within the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), will leave the agency on April 4, 2026, according to an email viewed by STAT.

Sherwat informed his colleagues of his departure on Wednesday, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to operate alongside dedicated professionals committed to public health. “I have been extremely fortunate to work with and learn from colleagues who are dedicated to improving public health and who are guided by integrity, impartiality, and intellect,” he wrote.

The reason for Sherwat’s departure remains unclear, as he did not respond to requests for comment.

Recent Approvals Under Sherwat’s Leadership

Sherwat’s tenure at the FDA saw the approval of several key treatments for infectious diseases. In December 2025, the FDA approved two oral therapies to treat gonorrhea: Nuzolvence (zoliflodacin) granules and Blujepa (gepotidacin) oral tablets. These approvals addressed the growing concern of gonococcal drug resistance and provided additional treatment options for uncomplicated urogenital gonorrhea in adults and children.

Blujepa had previously received approval in March 2025 for the treatment of urinary tract infections.

Background on Adam Sherwat, M.D.

Dr. Sherwat has been a key figure in the FDA’s response to infectious disease threats. According to his LinkedIn profile, he has experience at the FDA and received his medical education from Georgetown University Medical Center.

Prior to his role as director, Adam Sherwat served as the Office Deputy Director of the Office of Infectious Diseases (OID) at the FDA, as of March 1, 2025 according to FDA documentation. John Farley M.D.,M.P.H. Is the current Director of the OID.