Pharma News
21 Jan 2024 to 27 Jan 2024
Jan 27, 2024
Understanding the Concept of Blockbuster Drugs | Financial Advice Platform, The Motley Fool
Novo Nordisk's blockbuster drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, originally intended to treat diabetes, have gained popularity for their weight-loss effects. Sales of Ozempic reached almost $9.4 billion in the first nine months of 2023, while Wegovy raked in about $3.1 billion. This success has made Novo Nordisk the most valuable company in Europe with a market capitalization of over $430 billion.
Jan 26, 2024
Important Highlights from JNJ's (JNJ) Fourth Quarter Earnings Report - Yahoo Finance
Johnson & Johnson reported strong fourth-quarter and full-year 2024 results, with sales of key drugs like Darzalex, Stelara, Tremfya, and Imbruvica beating estimates. The company's Innovative Medicines unit outperformed expectations, and it expects above-market growth in the unit for the 13th consecutive quarter in 2024. The MedTech segment also performed well, benefiting from strong procedure recovery and new products. Johnson & Johnson confirmed its full-year adjusted earnings and sales growth guidance for 2024. Additionally, the company announced a definitive agreement to acquire Ambrx Biopharma for approximately $2 billion, strengthening its oncology pipeline.
Jan 26, 2024
Validity of Pfizer's initial Vyndamax patent case faces scrutiny - Bloomberg Law reports
Pfizer's defense of its heart drug Vyndamax received a boost as Dexcel Pharma Technologies admitted that its proposed generic version infringes three patents. The admission leaves only the validity of the patents in question. These concessions are often used as a strategy to limit the scope of litigation in patent infringement cases.
Jan 26, 2024
India sees the focus shift to a fresh class of medications in the battle against diabetes - Business Standard
In a major development in India's diabetes drug market, pharmaceutical companies are preparing to launch a series of medications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. A new category of drugs called glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) has shown promising results in clinical trials, reducing glycemic parameters and promoting weight loss. According to Umag Vohra, the managing director and CEO of Cipla, GLP-1RAs have the potential to be as transformative as statins.
Jan 26, 2024
FDA in the United States greenlights Dupixent for treatment of esophageal condition in children
The U.S. FDA has approved Regeneron and Sanofi's drug Dupixent for the treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis in children aged one to 11. Dupixent, which generated global sales of $8.68 billion in 2022, is currently used to treat other inflammatory conditions. This approval makes Dupixent the first drug approved for younger children with eosinophilic esophagitis. The early intervention with Dupixent may help these children avoid complications such as difficulty swallowing caused by scarring of the esophagus. Regeneron and Sanofi are also seeking approval for the use of Dupixent to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Jan 26, 2024
Eli Lilly's Strategy to Address the Supply Issue for their High-demand Diabetes Medication - CNBC
Eli Lilly's popular diabetes treatment, Mounjaro, is facing limited availability through February due to elevated demand. The 12.5 mg dose of Mounjaro is expected to experience intermittent shortages, potentially impacting Wall Street's sales goals for the drug. Mounjaro, along with Eli Lilly's recently approved weight-loss drug, Zepbound, contribute significantly to the company's stock performance. The supply of Mounjaro and similar GLP-1 drugs has struggled to meet demand, affecting both Eli Lilly and its competitor, Novo Nordisk. Eli Lilly is working on expanding manufacturing facilities and exploring different delivery methods, such as KwikPen, to alleviate supply constraints.
Jan 25, 2024
Dupixent receives US FDA approval for the treatment of pediatric patients with esophageal condition
Dawn Ericksen, a recovering opioid addict, shares her personal struggle with pregnancy and limited access to abortion due to financial constraints. Her story sheds light on the importance of women's voices in discussing such issues.
Jan 25, 2024
The Financial Express presents the list of the top 10 highly successful medicinal drugs that will lose their patent protection in 2024.
Blockbuster drugs such as Humira are set to lose their patent protection by 2024, impacting global pharmaceutical companies. The expiration of these patents could potentially wipe off $251 billion in branded drug sales. This development comes as the global patented drugs market size is projected to reach $1,456.5 billion by 2032.
Jan 25, 2024
Poison Centers Issue Warnings About Hypoglycemia Injuries Linked to Counterfeit Ozempic - Report by AboutLawsuits.com
Counterfeit versions of the diabetes drug Ozempic have led to at least three cases of hypoglycemia in the U.S., according to a report. The incidents are believed to be linked to fake versions of the drug used within the past year. The pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk initially introduced Ozempic to treat Type II diabetes but it has also been widely used for weight loss, prompting the introduction of another drug, Wegovy. Reports have emerged of users experiencing stomach paralysis side effects from Ozempic, resulting in lawsuits alleging the withholding of information about the severity of these problems.
Jan 25, 2024
FDA in the US grants approval for Dupixent to treat esophageal condition in younger children - SaltWire
The U.S. FDA has approved Regeneron and Sanofi's Dupixent for the treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) in children aged one to 11 years old, weighing at least 15 kg. EoE is an allergic inflammation of the esophagus that can impact eating ability. Dupixent, with a list price of $3,803.20 per carton, generated global sales of $8.68 billion in 2022. This approval makes Dupixent the first drug approved for younger children with EoE, and may help prevent esophageal scarring. Furthermore, Regeneron and Sanofi are seeking approval to use Dupixent to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Jan 25, 2024
Sage to relocate its headquarters to a more compact location as part of downsizing efforts - Fierce Pharma
Pharma company Sage Therapeutics is downsizing its headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and moving to a smaller office three blocks away. The move comes after the FDA rejected the company's drug Zurzuvae for major depressive disorder, but approved it for postpartum depression. Despite the setback, CEO Chris Viehbacher expressed enthusiasm for Zurzuvae's potential, citing the "phenomenal" unmet need and the company's commercial plan to build the market for the drug profitably.
Jan 25, 2024
Top Picks for Viewing: Novo Nordisk - Yahoo Finance
Novo Nordisk, the Danish drugmaker behind Ozempic and Wegovy, is facing key issues as it reports 4th quarter earnings. These include expansion plans, competition from Eli Lilly, Pfizer, Amgen, Roche, and AstraZeneca, and barriers such as Medicare not covering weight loss drugs. Novo Nordisk's performance and ability to overcome these hurdles will be closely watched.
Jan 25, 2024
Lava Therapeutics' Stock Surges as Drug Prepares for Trial with Merck's Keytruda - MarketWatch
Lava Therapeutics' stock soars as it announces testing of its drug, LAVA-1207, in combination with Merck's Keytruda for prostate cancer.
Jan 25, 2024
Top Dividend Stock Choices: Johnson & Johnson vs. Verizon - Yahoo Finance
Pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson and telecommunications company Verizon Communications have announced their results for the last three months of 2023. Johnson & Johnson's revenue grew by 6.5% YoY, driven by strong sales of its cancer drugs, while Verizon experienced a decline in revenue and earnings. Despite J&J's higher earnings multiple, Verizon is viewed as the better dividend stock option due to its reliable cash flows. Investors with a longer time horizon before retirement may prefer J&J for potential growth.
Jan 25, 2024
Going Beyond the Ticker: Novo Nordisk's Latest Updates - Yahoo Finance
Novo Nordisk, the Danish multinational pharmaceutical company, has been named Yahoo Finance's 2023 Company of the Year due to the success of its blockbuster obesity drug, Wegovy, and diabetes drug, Ozempic. The popularity of these drugs has significantly contributed to the growth of Novo Nordisk, with a gross profit of nearly $26 billion in 2023. The company has also made strategic acquisitions in the diabetes and obesity biotech space, further solidifying its position in the market.
Jan 25, 2024
What Role Does Pfizer Play in a Diversified Investment Portfolio?
Pfizer, a leading U.S. pharmaceutical company, is considered a potential addition to a diversified portfolio due to its diversified product portfolio and conservative approach to value creation. While the company's growth prospects are modest, its attractively low stock price and generous dividend yield make it an intriguing income play. Pfizer's stock is seen as best suited for an income-generating role in a well-diversified portfolio, offering low-risk potential for cash flow.
Jan 25, 2024
The FTC Intensifies Efforts to Support President Biden's Campaign Against High Drug Prices - KFF Health News
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is targeting drug manufacturers in its efforts to combat high drug prices. In November, the agency challenged the validity of over 100 drug patents listed in the FDA's "Orange Book." By listing a patent, drug companies can delay generic competition by up to 2.5 years. The FTC sent letters to 10 drugmakers challenging patents for delivery devices, arguing that patent law protects active ingredients, not delivery methods. The move has already prompted some drugmakers to withdraw patents. The FTC may target other types of patents in the future.
Jan 25, 2024
Addressing Legal Obstacles While Advancing India's Pharmaceutical Industry
India's pharmaceutical industry faces legal challenges related to Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), including debates around product patents, evergreening, and compulsory licensing. Balancing data exclusivity and access to generic drugs is crucial for innovation and affordability. Compliance with regulatory requirements, such as the Drug and Cosmetic Act and GMP regulations, is essential for pharmaceutical companies. Substandard drugs and counterfeiting are ongoing concerns that require global collaboration and harmonization of regulations.
Jan 24, 2024
J&J prioritizes newer medications to mitigate the impact of Stelara patent expiration | BioPharma Dive
Pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson (J&J) is anticipating a challenging year ahead due to biosimilar competition to its immune drug Stelara and a $700 million settlement over claims that its talc product caused cancer. The company, however, exceeded Wall Street's expectations with $85.2 billion in revenue in 2023, driven by cancer treatments and immunology medicines like Stelara. J&J is relying on new medicines like Darzalex, Carvykti, Tecvayli, and Talvey to offset any potential revenue loss from Stelara. The company expects operational sales growth of 5-6% in 2024, aiming for revenue of up to $89 billion.
Jan 23, 2024
Federal License Needed for Drug Cost Reduction, Pending Action from Biden Administration
The White House has released a draft guidance allowing federal agencies to grant nonvoluntary licenses to patents on taxpayer-funded inventions, known as "march-in" rights, in an effort to address high drug prices. However, critics argue that the guidance may limit the application of march-in rights to only a few cases. The article emphasizes the need for the government to use all available rights to lower drug prices and suggests using the Xtandi case as an example to resolve the appeal quickly. If successful, the use of march-in rights could lead to concrete discussions about reasonable pricing for government-funded inventions.
Jan 23, 2024
Genmab's appeal for the Darzalex royalties arbitration case against Johnson & Johnson is unsuccessful
Johnson & Johnson has won an arbitration case against Genmab, rejecting the biotech company's claim for additional milestone and royalty payments for the multiple myeloma treatment, Darzalex. Genmab argued that the subcutaneous version of the drug, Darzalex Faspro, should be considered a new product and subject to new payments and royalties. The appeal arbitrator ruled in favor of Johnson & Johnson, stating that Genmab should have raised the claim in a previous arbitration. Sales of Darzalex in 2023 reached $9.7 billion, a 22% increase from the previous year.
Jan 23, 2024
Johnson & Johnson Stock Decreases Today - Yahoo Finance
Johnson & Johnson shares are sliding as the company agrees to pay $700 million to settle lawsuits claiming its talc-based baby powder caused cancer. The diversified healthcare company also settled with the state of Washington for $149.5 million over opioid-related claims. Despite beating estimates in its fourth-quarter earnings report, concerns about the legal settlements and competition for its Stelara drug are pushing the stock lower. The company reported a 7.3% rise in revenue to $21.4 billion for the quarter.
Jan 23, 2024
AbbVie announces $8.7bn agreement to purchase Cerevel Therapeutics - Financier Worldwide
AbbVie has announced plans to acquire Cerevel Therapeutics in an $8.7 billion deal to bolster its neuroscience pipeline. The deal, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals, will see AbbVie pay around $45 per share for Cerevel, a 73% premium over its closing share price on 1 December. Cerevel's pipeline includes potential treatments for schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, and mood disorders. The acquisition will help AbbVie offset revenue losses from its arthritis drug Humira, which faces growing competition from biosimilars. AbbVie recently purchased Immunogen for $10 billion and acquired Mitokinin in October.
Jan 23, 2024
Irish Examiner: J&J reports significant revenue increase thanks to highly successful psoriasis medication
Johnson & Johnson (J&J) reports better-than-expected quarterly results, boosted by the success of their psoriasis drug Stelara. Despite the expiration of a key patent, J&J struck agreements with competitors to delay biosimilar launches until 2025. Amgen's Wezlana will be the first to launch next year.
Jan 23, 2024
J&J's earnings slightly exceed market expectations due to delay in Stelara competition following recent deals - Yahoo Finance
Johnson & Johnson announced better-than-expected quarterly results, thanks to the strong sales of its psoriasis drug Stelara. The company is expected to face competition from biosimilar versions of Stelara in the US next year. Johnson & Johnson has also tentatively agreed to pay about $700 million to resolve an investigation into the marketing of its talc products. Despite the positive results, J&J shares fell 2% due to higher costs and a lack of near-term catalysts. The company's medical device business performed well, benefiting from increased demand for surgeries delayed during the pandemic.
Jan 23, 2024
J&J's Fourth Quarter Earnings Beat Expectations as Stelara Competition is Delayed due to Deals
Johnson & Johnson reported better-than-expected quarterly results, supported by strong sales of its psoriasis drug Stelara. The drug, facing competition from biosimilar versions, had its patent expired last year but J&J struck deals to delay biosimilar launches until 2025. Despite pending competition, J&J's pharmaceutical segment is expected to generate mid-single-digit growth. The company's medical device business also exceeded revenue estimates. J&J's cancer treatment Carvykti is undergoing safety scrutiny, but the company still expects peak sales of at least $5 billion. Overall, J&J's Q4 profit and revenue narrowly beat expectations.
Jan 23, 2024
Johnson & Johnson narrowly surpasses projected quarterly figures with pharmaceutical and medtech sales surge
Johnson & Johnson reported fourth-quarter earnings and revenue that beat expectations, with sales in its pharmaceutical and medical devices businesses surging. The company provided full-year guidance for 2024, forecasting sales of $87.8 billion to $88.6 billion and adjusted earnings of $10.55 to $10.75 per share. The growth was driven by products such as Darzalex, Erleada, and Stelara, while the entrance of Stelara biosimilars in Europe is expected to affect sales in the pharmaceutical segment in the second half of the year. The company will also begin price talks with Medicare for Stelara and Xarelto.
Jan 23, 2024
Johnson & Johnson exceeds predictions with strong earnings driven by the success of Stelara - Yahoo Finance Canada
Johnson & Johnson has reported quarterly results that exceeded Wall Street expectations, thanks to strong sales of its psoriasis drug, Stelara. The drug is expected to face competition from biosimilar versions in the US next year, with Amgen due to launch its near-copy, Wezlana. Johnson & Johnson has reached a tentative agreement to pay around $700 million to settle an investigation into the marketing of its talc products brought by over 40 states. Sales of Stelara are expected to be $10.54 billion in 2024, slightly lower than the previous year's $10.86 billion.
Jan 22, 2024
Quality control and maintenance issues resurface at Eli Lilly's problematic manufacturing site in New Jersey
Eli Lilly's manufacturing site in Branchburg, New Jersey, is under scrutiny by the FDA once again, with eight new production deficiencies identified during a recent inspection. The observations range from problems in tracking manufacturing processes and quality controls to equipment calibration lapses and poor facility maintenance. The site has been the subject of previous investigations, including a subpoena related to quality control issues and potential document tampering. Lilly has confirmed the receipt of the manufacturing write-up and stated that it does not affect the quality, safety, or supply of any current or planned products.
Jan 22, 2024
Alvotech's (ALVO) Shares Rise Following Positive BLA Update for Two Biosimilar Candidates - Yahoo Finance
Alvotech has announced that the FDA has completed the reinspection of its Iceland facility, receiving a form 483 with one observation. The completion of the reinspection is crucial for the approval of Alvotech's two biosimilar candidates, AVT02 and AVT04, which are high-concentration biosimilars of AbbVie's Humira and Johnson & Johnson's Stelara, respectively. Alvotech remains confident about receiving approval for both candidates in the United States by 2024. Shares of the company were up 15.3% following the announcement.
Jan 21, 2024
How Ozempic Became a Sensation in the US: A Remarkable $1 Billion Promotional Campaign and Extensive Engagement with Leading Obesity Specialists Turned the Groundbreaking Anti-Obesity Medication into a Cultural Phenomenon, Even Inspiring Jokes at Awards Ceremonies.
Novo Nordisk, the maker of the weight loss drug Ozempic, is facing potential lawsuits from patients who claim the drug caused severe side effects. The company has spent around $1 billion since 2018 in an aggressive marketing campaign to promote Ozempic and its other drugs. Novo Nordisk has also paid millions of dollars to physicians to promote the drugs and lobby insurers to cover the costs. The company believes the allegations in the lawsuits are "without merit" and will vigorously defend against them.
Jan 21, 2024
FDA Issues Strongest Warning Against Amgen's Prolia, an Osteoporosis Drug
Amgen's osteoporosis drug, Prolia, now comes with the FDA's strictest warning due to the risk of dangerously low levels of calcium in the blood. The warning states that the drug can cause hypocalcemia, especially in patients with advanced kidney disease, leading to hospitalization, life-threatening events, and death. The black box warning comes after studies found that Prolia increased the risk of severe hypocalcemia compared to older osteoporosis drugs. Last year, Prolia accounted for $2.9 billion in revenue.
Jan 21, 2024
Opportunity to Invest in Overlooked Anti-Obesity Drug Stocks with Potential Upside of 44%, According to Berenberg
The anti-obesity drug market is expected to continue growing in 2023, with Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly leading the way. The expiry of Novo's patent for the active ingredient in first-generation GLP-1 drugs presents opportunities for generic drug manufacturers in Europe. Novo's blockbuster weight loss drug, Wegovy, is also set to have its patent expiration by the end of the decade. Additionally, companies like Teva and Sandoz are preparing to launch generic versions of the first-generation GLP-1 drugs. Berenberg recommends Sandoz as its top pick for 2024. Gerresheimer, Sartorius, and SKAN Group are also expected to benefit from the trend.
