But Vasella is considerably less kind to consumer interest groups like Sidney Wolfe's Public Citizen, which jumped on Zelnorm as a potentially dangerous drug.

FORBES: Novartis' Potential Blockbuster Zelnorm Approved

Over the past year, there has been one child death and many injuries from swallowing small magnets in magnetic building toys and jewelry, according to U.S. PIRG, a federation of state consumer interest groups.

FORBES: Toying With China

Activists, consumer advocates and other special interest groups were quick to issue rebukes on Monday.

FORBES: FCC Tips Net Neutrality Passage But Questions Remain