Pharma News
02 Jun 2024 to 08 Jun 2024
Jun 7, 2024
Democrats intensify push against pharmaceutical industry over patents to decrease prices - Washington Post
Democrats are pressuring pharmaceutical companies to remove patents that they say are blocking competition and driving up drug costs. Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Pramila Jayapal have written to eight pharmaceutical company CEOs, urging them to remove 130 patents that have been identified as "junk patent listings" by the Federal Trade Commission. The Democrats are targeting companies including Novo Nordisk and GlaxoSmithKline, and are seeking more opportunities to challenge patents in their efforts to lower drug costs. The pharmaceutical industry has dismissed the challenges as political grandstanding.
Jun 7, 2024
Firstpost reports on the significant contribution of India in the success of the popular weight loss medication Ozempic.
The success of Novo Nordisk's semaglutide-based drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy, has not only benefited the Danish economy but also led to the company's market capitalization surpassing Tesla. The India team of Novo Nordisk played a crucial role in the development and success of Ozempic, working closely with international teams on various aspects of the drug. Novo Nordisk plans to hire 1,400 professionals in India, including physicians, pharmacists, statisticians, data engineers, AI specialists, and health economists. Despite the high demand, the company will carefully stage the launches of Ozempic in India to ensure a steady supply.
Jun 7, 2024
Sun Pharmaceutical Wins Antitrust Lawsuit Regarding Lipitor Medication
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. has won a multidistrict litigation case accusing the company of conspiring with Pfizer Inc. to delay the generic version of cholesterol drug Lipitor. In a ruling by Judge Peter G. Sheridan of the US District Court for the District of New Jersey, Sun's motion to end the case was granted, stating that the plaintiffs couldn't prove an alleged anti-competitive settlement caused any generic delay. The ruling brings an end to the decade-long litigation and is a victory for Sun in the case involving Ranbaxy Laboratories and the alleged illegal payment by Pfizer.
Jun 7, 2024
Colorado Drug Pricing Board deems J&J's Stelara too expensive, according to Bloomberg Law News
The Colorado Prescription Drug Affordability Board has deemed Johnson & Johnson's arthritis drug, Stelara, as "unaffordable" for patients. The board will now consider implementing an upper payment limit for the drug which costs an average of $150,000 per patient.
Jun 7, 2024
US regulatory agency poised to authorize expanded use of GSK's Arexvy - The Times
The US Food and Drug Administration is expected to approve the expanded use of GSK's respiratory illness vaccine, Arexvy, for adults aged 50 to 59. Arexvy was initially approved for adults aged 60 and older and is part of GSK's efforts to improve its drug pipeline. GSK is focused on research and development productivity as well as launching new vaccines and medicines.
Jun 7, 2024
Success of Ozempic relies on the crucial role of the Indian team from a Danish company
Novo Nordisk's weight-loss drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy, are behind the company's market success, with its market cap surpassing Tesla's. The Danish pharma giant's India team, based in Bengaluru, played a key role in the development of these drugs for diabetes treatment and weight management. The Bengaluru team collaborated with global teams on important aspects such as clinical trials, biostatistics, data management, global safety, and medical affairs. Novo Nordisk's success in the obesity market has come as a surprise to the company, and the drugs continue to gain demand.
Jun 6, 2024
Italy initiates antitrust investigation against Novartis, Roche, and other companies for alleged collaboration in postponing ...
Four pharmaceutical companies, Novartis, Genentech, Biogen, and Samsung Bioepis, are under investigation by Italy's antitrust agency for allegedly colluding to suppress competition of a Lucentis biosimilar in the country. The Italian Competition Authority accuses the companies of coordinating their strategies to delay the launch of Samsung Bioepis and Biogen's Byooviz, potentially limiting patient access and affecting healthcare spending. Office searches have already been initiated in Italy and the Netherlands. The companies involved are cooperating with the investigation.
Jun 6, 2024
Eisai and Merck file lawsuit against Dr. Reddy's to prevent generic versions of Lenvima
Japanese pharmaceutical company Eisai Co. Ltd and Merck & Co. have accused Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd. of patent infringement in relation to their blockbuster cancer drug, Lenvima. The complaint, filed in the US District Court for the District of New Jersey, alleges that the generic version of Lenvima proposed by Dr. Reddy's infringes three patents. These patents cover a high-purity quinoline derivative and a method for making it. The case is similar to Eisai and Merck's ongoing litigation against Shilpa Medicare Ltd.
Jun 6, 2024
The success of Ozempic can be attributed to Novo's India GGC - Times of India
Novo Nordisk's India team has played a crucial role in the success of their blockbuster drug, Ozempic, for treating diabetes. The Indian team collaborated with global teams on the development of Ozempic and another semaglutide-based drug, Wegovy, for weight management. The success of these drugs has led to Novo Nordisk's market cap surpassing that of Tesla. The Bengaluru-based team specializes in areas such as clinical trials, biostatistics, data management, and pharmacovigilance. Novo Nordisk plans to hire 1,400 people in India over the next two years. However, the company does not expect to launch Ozempic in India until it can guarantee supply to meet demand.
Jun 6, 2024
Novo Nordisk prepares for competition from other drugs similar to Ozempic in the Chinese market, according to Yahoo Finance.
Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, is facing potential competition in China as drugmakers are developing 15 generic versions of its popular diabetes and weight loss drugs. The Danish company had hoped for success in the booming Chinese market, but the patent on the active ingredient in these drugs is set to expire in China in 2026, potentially leading to earlier loss of exclusivity. Several Chinese firms are in the final stages of clinical trials for semaglutide drug candidates, with one claiming similar efficacy and safety as Ozempic. Novo Nordisk is awaiting a court decision on its patent case.
Jun 6, 2024
Novavax anticipates supplying Covid-19 vaccines in the upcoming fall, according to STAT News.
Psychedelics companies remain optimistic following the rejection of MDMA-assisted therapy by a panel of FDA advisers for post-traumatic stress disorder treatment. The concerns raised by the panel provided clarity for drug approval, according to industry insiders. Furthermore, Lilly's Zepbound improved liver scarring in MASH patients, but obesity drugs are expected to have a larger impact on moderate MASH patients rather than severe cases. Novavax is set to provide Covid-19 vaccines this fall following the FDA's unanimous recommendation that this year's shots should target Omicron's JN.1 lineage. Finally, a systematic review found that antidepressant withdrawal symptoms occur in about 15% of patients, lower than previous estimates.
Jun 5, 2024
In May, Skyrizi from AbbVie becomes the leading spender on pharmaceutical TV ads once again, with Rexulti closely following in second place.
AbbVie's blockbuster IL-23 immunology drug, Skyrizi, regained its top spot as the highest spender on pharma TV ads in May, surpassing April's winner, Rexulti. Skyrizi spent $31.2 million on TV commercials, narrowly beating out Rexulti, which spent $29.8 million. Other top spenders included Sanofi and Regeneron's Dupixent and AbbVie's Rinvoq and Vraylar. Total spending for May on TV drug ads reached $191.9 million.
Jun 5, 2024
Pfizer accuses competitor of engaging in improper investigation in Enbrel biosimilar dispute
Jun 5, 2024
STAT News reports that Zepbound by Eli Lilly demonstrated positive results in reducing liver scarring during a mid-stage MASH study.
Eli Lilly's diabetes and obesity drug, tirzepatide, has demonstrated positive results in improving liver scarring in a mid-stage study of the liver disease MASH. The study showed that higher doses of tirzepatide led to a significant improvement in fibrosis without worsening the disease, compared to a placebo. These findings will be presented at the annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of the Liver.
Jun 5, 2024
Increased competition looms for Novo Nordisk in China's diabetes market - Devdiscourse
Novo Nordisk is facing increasing competition in China as several domestic drugmakers are developing generic versions of its diabetes drug Ozempic and weight loss treatment Wegovy. Clinical trial records show that at least 15 generic versions of the drugs are in development. Novo Nordisk is hoping to capitalise on the high demand for its drugs in China, but the patent for the active ingredient in both medications expires in 2026, potentially opening the door for generic competitors. The Danish pharmaceutical company is currently involved in a legal battle in China over the patent.
Jun 5, 2024
The Market for Skin Cancer Drugs Expected to Reach $19.96 Billion by 2032, Growing at a CAGR of 9.6%
The Skin Cancer Drugs market is projected to reach USD 19.96 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 9.6% from 2024 to 2032. The market is driven by factors such as the rising incidence of skin cancer globally, advancements in drug development, and increasing awareness of early diagnosis and treatment options. Key players in the market include Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck & Co., and Novartis. The market is segmented into melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, with melanoma being the more aggressive form. The introduction of biosimilars and expiration of patents for major drugs are expected to impact market dynamics.
Jun 4, 2024
Daiichi Sankyo surpasses Honda in market value due to its focus on cancer drug development - as reported by Nikkei Asia
Daiichi Sankyo's cancer drug Enhertu drives market capitalization above ¥10 trillion ($64 billion), leading the company to explore wider usage in the US, according to executives at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's annual meeting.
Jun 4, 2024
Keytruda, Merck's drug, does not meet expectations in head and neck cancer trial, reports Yahoo Movies Canada
Pharmaceutical company Merck & Co announced that its cancer therapy drug Keytruda did not meet the main goal in a late-stage trial for patients with head and neck cancer. The drug, a PD-1 inhibitor, showed some improvement in event-free survival but did not reach statistical significance. Keytruda is a blockbuster drug for Merck.
Jun 4, 2024
Merck's Positive Outlook Supported by Strong Oncology Pipeline and Planned Product Releases
Analyst Chris Schott from J.P. Morgan has maintained a Buy rating on Merck & Company (MRK) stock. The rating is based on various factors, including Merck's expanding oncology pipeline and potential new product launches. Schott believes that the company's diverse pipeline, particularly in antibody-drug conjugates and an investigational therapeutic vaccine, shows promise in treating various cancer indications. The analyst also notes positive results from collaboration on an INT vaccine and promising data from early-stage trials for a TROP-2 ADC in non-small cell lung cancer. Another report from Barclays also maintains a Buy rating on MRK stock with a $145.00 price target.
Jun 3, 2024
Study finds that Structure's weight loss medication exceeds anticipated results in reducing obesity - Yahoo
Structure Therapeutics announces that its experimental oral obesity drug has demonstrated significant weight loss, exceeding expectations in a mid-stage study. The drug achieved an average weight reduction of 6.2%, surpassing estimates of 5-6% at the end of 12 weeks of treatment. The positive results position Structure Therapeutics as a potential competitor in the global obesity treatment market, which is forecast to be valued at $150 billion by the early 2030s. The company plans to conduct further studies to evaluate the drug's tablet formulation and is seeking a strategic partner for late-stage development and commercialization.
Jun 3, 2024
Neurim's request for further compensation remains viable in intellectual property dispute related to generic Circadin - Lawyerly
Neurim Pharmaceutical has won the case for additional damages against two generic drug companies for infringing its patents.
Jun 3, 2024
Ozempic and Wegovy reported to potentially reduce sugar cravings by enhancing taste sensitivity
semaglutide" style="color: #F36C42; font-weight:600";>Semaglutide, a drug used for diabetes and weight loss, has been found to improve taste sensitivity and alter the brain's response to sweet tastes, according to a preliminary study presented at ENDO 2024. Researchers discovered that semaglutide may even change genes associated with taste bud development. The study involved assigning 30 women to receive either semaglutide or a placebo, and the results showed increased taste sensitivity and decreased activation in the brain's reward system in the group taking semaglutide. The study highlights the complex interactions between taste, hormones, diet, and weight change.
Jun 3, 2024
IMM ASX: Immutep secures $100 million funding and partners with Merck for a potential 'blockbuster' drug - AFR
Immutep, an ASX-listed company, has raised $100 million to finalize late-stage trials of its lung cancer treatment, Efti. The therapy, combined with Merck's Keytruda and chemotherapy, aims to extend the life of patients. Immutep anticipates that Efti has the potential to become a "blockbuster drug" within the next three years, resulting in a 45% increase in the company's shares over the past year.
Jun 3, 2024
Rai speaks before Senate Judiciary Committee investigating steep costs of prescription medications
Arti K. Rai, a professor of law, testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on improving competition, innovation, and patent quality in the prescription drug market. Rai highlighted the issue of poor-quality patents impeding competition and raising drug prices without fostering innovation. She provided three recommendations to address this problem, including better communication between the US Patent and Trademark Office and the FDA. The hearing also focused on how the pharmaceutical industry exploits patents to maintain market exclusivity and drive up prices.
Jun 3, 2024
Obesity drug from Structure Therapeutics achieves primary objective in mid-stage trial
California-based drug developer Structure Therapeutics announced that its experimental oral obesity drug showed promising results in a mid-stage study. The drug helped reduce weight by an average of 6.2%, surpassing expectations and leading to a 32% increase in the company's shares. Structure's drug aims to compete with market leaders Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, who currently offer injectable obesity treatments. Analysts believe that Structure's oral drug could have a comparable efficacy and safety profile, potentially generating $30 billion in sales by 2035. Structure plans to conduct further studies on the drug's tablet formulation.
Jun 3, 2024
Roche reports a 7 percent increase in drug sales during the third quarter - Washington Examiner
Swiss drugmaker Roche has announced a 7% increase in sales of its pharmaceutical products for the first nine months of 2012. The company attributed this increase to strong growth in its top three cancer drugs, which accounted for 52% of the division's sales. Roche also stated that it is on track to meet its financial goals for the year and confirmed its outlook for sales growth in the low to middle single-digit range.
Jun 2, 2024
New drug for bowel cancer shows promising results in improving survival rates for certain patients by threefold
The immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab has shown promising results in shrinking tumours in bowel cancer patients, with 59% of patients seeing their tumours disappear before surgery, according to a study presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's annual conference. The drug has the potential to triple the chances of long-term survival for some patients and could allow for the avoidance of surgery and chemotherapy in those who respond well to the treatment. The study is being extended to over 70 patients to demonstrate the drug's impact on relapse-free survival.
