Pharma News
28 Dec 2025 to 03 Jan 2026
Jan 3, 2026
Authorities in Ahmedabad confiscated illegal drugs valued at ₹40 lakh during a recent FDCA operation, according to DrugsControl Media Services.
The Gujarat Food and Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) seized illegal medicines valued at over ₹40 lakh during a raid in Ahmedabad, highlighting the growing illegal drug trade in Gujarat.
Jan 3, 2026
Telangana DCA's Strong Action Against Drug Offenses Emphasizes the Importance of a National Approach...
The Telangana Drugs Control Administration (DCA) has launched a vigorous crackdown on drug violations, as highlighted in its Annual Report 2025. This initiative underscores the necessity for uniform enforcement across the nation to ensure public health safety.
Jan 3, 2026
Exploring Incyte: The Impact of a Targeted Biotech Pipeline on the Future of Cancer Treatment and...
Incyte is evolving from being known primarily for its blood cancer drug Jakafi to a diversified biotech with a robust oncology and immunology pipeline. The company is expanding its product portfolio with Jakafi, Opzelura, and emerging therapies like retifanlimab, focusing on chronic diseases and niche markets. This strategy aims to enhance its market presence amid increasing competition in drug development.
Jan 3, 2026
Starting next week, companies will be allowed to produce generic versions of Ozempic, but availability may take some time.
Health Canada will allow the production of lower-priced generic versions of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk's Ozempic and Wegovy, starting next week. Companies like Sandoz Canada, Apotex, and Teva Canada have applied for approval, but experts predict availability may take months. Generic prices could drop to 35% of Ozempic's cost, aiding patients with diabetes and obesity.
Jan 3, 2026
Recycling PET plastic waste to create a medication for cancer treatment - Digital Journal
Researchers at the University of St Andrews have developed a method to convert household PET plastic waste into ethyl-4-hydroxymethyl benzoate (EHMB), a key ingredient for anti-cancer drug Imatinib. This process, using a ruthenium catalyst, offers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods, potentially accelerating the transition to a circular economy. The findings are published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition.
Jan 3, 2026
[Korean Startup Spotlight] BioArchers: Transforming Oral Medication Delivery through NanoLink Technology
BioArchers, founded in 2024, is developing an oral delivery platform called NanoLink™ to improve the bioavailability of peptide drugs like GLP-1 treatments, including Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Zepbound. Their technology aims to make oral versions of these drugs feasible, potentially transforming the market for obesity and related conditions. The company has secured seed funding and is in discussions with global pharma partners.
Jan 2, 2026
Pharmaceutical Sector Reviews Advances in Drug Development for 2025 and Looks Ahead to...
The pharmaceutical industry reflects on significant advancements in drug development in 2025 while facing ongoing regulatory challenges. A recent blog post anticipates a focus on innovation and streamlining approval processes in 2026. The insights are sourced from "In The Pipeline" and available on platforms like Science.org and CafePharma.com.
Jan 2, 2026
Hoth Therapeutics Submits Provisional Patents for HT-001 to Combat Skin Toxicities from ...
Hoth Therapeutics has filed two provisional patents for HT-001, a therapeutic candidate aimed at alleviating skin toxicities associated with oncology treatments. The company seeks to establish intellectual property protection for HT-001, positioning it as a potential first-in-class solution for managing adverse skin effects in cancer patients.
Jan 2, 2026
Vietnam Plans to Revise Patent Review Guidelines for Pharmaceutical and Biotech Innovations
The Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam, with support from JICA, is drafting Annexes III and IV to enhance patent examination guidelines for pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, set to be issued in early 2026. These annexes aim to address practical challenges in patent applications, focusing on disclosure requirements, novelty, and inventive steps, thereby improving the quality and consistency of patent examinations in these sectors.
Jan 2, 2026
Focus on Health ETFs as NVO and LLY Reduce Obesity Medication Costs in China - Yahoo Finance
Novo Nordisk (NVO) and Eli Lilly (LLY) have significantly reduced prices for their obesity drugs, Wegovy and Mounjaro, in China, with Wegovy's prices dropping nearly 48% to 987 yuan ($141) per month. This price cut has raised concerns about future profitability, impacting share prices. The competitive obesity drug market is intensifying, with both companies pursuing oral formulations to capture market share.
Jan 2, 2026
CDT Collaborates with NJS Foresight Bio-Advisory to Enhance Solid-Form Out-Licensing Approach
CDT Equity Inc. has engaged NJS Foresight Bio-Advisory to enhance its solid-form out-licensing strategy, aiming to unlock value from its patent portfolio. The collaboration seeks to expand CDT's commercial reach and accelerate licensing opportunities, leveraging NJS's extensive experience in the biopharma sector. CDT's solid-form assets include cocrystals and salts that improve drug properties and extend patent lifecycles.
Jan 2, 2026
Focus on Health ETFs as NVO and LLY Reduce Obesity Medication Costs in China - TradingView
Novo Nordisk (NVO) and Eli Lilly (LLY) have significantly reduced prices for their obesity drugs, Wegovy and Mounjaro, in China, with cuts of nearly 48%. This move has raised concerns among investors about profitability, leading to a drop in share prices. The competitive obesity drug market is intensifying, prompting companies to adopt aggressive pricing strategies to maintain market share.
Jan 2, 2026
How Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly Transformed the Weight-Loss Industry for 2026
As of 2026, the market for weight-loss and diabetes medications, particularly GLP-1 therapies like Novo Nordisk's semaglutide and Eli Lilly's Zepbound, has shifted dramatically towards affordability. Legislative pressures and competition have led to significant price reductions, with semaglutide now priced at $274, down from over $1,000. This transformation marks a new era in U.S. pharmaceutical pricing dynamics.
Jan 2, 2026
After the expiration of patents, Indian pharmaceutical companies could see an increase in licensing and distribution agreements for obesity medications.
Pharma analyst Shrikant Akolkar from Nuvama highlighted the challenges of drug distribution in India and other markets due to the large population. He anticipates that companies with local distribution will have an advantage as the March 2026 patent expiration approaches, potentially leading to more deals in the sector.
Jan 2, 2026
Novo's GLP-1 Setback Presents Combination Potential in Alzheimer's Research - BioSpace
Novo Nordisk's GLP-1 drug semaglutide failed to effectively treat Alzheimer's disease, but showed a 10% improvement in biomarkers, prompting experts to consider combination therapies. Coya Therapeutics' CEO Arun Swaminathan believes combining semaglutide with COYA-301 could enhance efficacy. Analysts see potential in further testing, while the focus shifts towards inflammation as a key target in neurodegenerative diseases.
Jan 2, 2026
Daiichi Sankyo of Japan plans to expand its production facilities in China and the United States due to potential tariff concerns - Nikkei Asia
Daiichi Sankyo, a Japanese drugmaker, plans to invest approximately 300 billion yen ($1.9 billion) to establish production facilities for a targeted cancer medicine in Japan, the U.S., Germany, and China. This move aims to mitigate geopolitical risks, including tariffs, according to Nikkei.
Jan 2, 2026
What to expect from GLP-1 weight-loss medications in 2026 - NPR
In 2026, weight-loss drugs known as GLP-1s, including Wegovy and Ozempic, are set to gain popularity with the introduction of a new pill form of Wegovy, approved by the FDA. Pricing starts at $150 monthly, but higher doses may reach $400. Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are adjusting prices amid competition from compounded versions, while insurance coverage remains restrictive.
Jan 2, 2026
DoP appoints HTAIn representative to expert committee for drug pricing.
The Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) has appointed a representative from the Health Technology Assessment of India (HTAIn) to its Committee of Experts, which focuses on drug pricing. This move aims to enhance technical expertise in the evaluation and pricing of pharmaceuticals in India.
Jan 2, 2026
Lee Dong-hoon, the head of SK Biopharmaceuticals, identified 2026 as a pivotal year in ...
SK Biopharmaceuticals CEO Lee Dong-hoon announced plans to accelerate global growth centered on the epilepsy drug Senovamate (XCOPRI) and innovations in radioactive drugs and AI. He emphasized 2026 as a pivotal year for achieving global leadership, expanding prescription areas, and enhancing R&D through AI-driven strategies, while also focusing on regional collaborations and supply chain optimization.
Jan 2, 2026
CDT Equity Inc. Partners with NJS Foresight Bio-Advisory to Improve Out-Licensing Efforts
CDT Equity Inc. has engaged NJS Foresight Bio-Advisory, LLC to explore out-licensing opportunities for its solid-form patent portfolio, which includes cocrystals and salts. This partnership aims to enhance CDT's commercial reach and capitalize on trends in biopharma investment. CEO Dr. Andrew Regan highlighted the potential of these assets for lifecycle management strategies.
Jan 2, 2026
Systematix reports that Sun Pharma and Eris are set to gain from the $500 million weight loss medication market opening in Canada and Brazil.
Sun Pharma and Eris are poised to benefit from the opening of a $500 million weight loss drug market in Canada and Brazil, according to Vishal Manchanda, Pharma Analyst at Systematix Group. He noted that while the Indian market presents greater predictability for GLP-1 investments, the growth may be slower.
Jan 1, 2026
China's highest court supports Novo Nordisk by affirming the patent for semaglutide in a significant intellectual property decision.
China's Supreme People’s Court has upheld Novo Nordisk's semaglutide compound patent, reinforcing intellectual property protections for innovative medicines. This ruling secures legal protection for semaglutide, the active ingredient in diabetes and obesity treatments like Wegovy and Ozempic. Novo Nordisk's CEO, Mike Doustdar, hailed the decision as a boost for medical innovation and foreign investment in China.
Jan 1, 2026
Pharmaceutical Companies Set to Increase Prices by 4.5% on Over 350 Medications in the US Despite Pressure from Trump
Pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer and Sanofi, plan to raise prices on over 350 branded medications in early 2026, despite pressure from the incoming Trump administration for lower costs. The median increase is projected at 4.5%, with some drugs, like Ibrance, seeing hikes up to 10%. This move highlights ongoing tensions between drug pricing and political promises.
Jan 1, 2026
Oprah Winfrey reveals surprising information regarding her use of the GLP-1 weight loss medication - Daily Mail
Oprah Winfrey shared her experiences with GLP-1 medications, including Ozempic, which helped her lose over 40 pounds and reduce cravings for alcohol. She noted unexpected side effects, such as increased energy and a positive outlook on food. Winfrey emphasized the importance of these medications for those struggling with obesity, advocating for a compassionate approach to weight management.
Jan 1, 2026
Merck to Discuss Patent Expirations and Drug Development Plans at JP Morgan Conference...
Merck is set to discuss its pharmaceutical pipeline strategy at the JP Morgan 2026 conference, addressing challenges posed by key patent expirations in 2028. The company aims to mitigate revenue impacts through innovation and strategic investments in new drug development, as analysts expect a focus on diversifying its portfolio amid rising competition from generics.
Dec 31, 2025
Enveric Biosciences awarded US patent for "Substituted Ethylamine Fused ..." - Pharmabiz.com
Enveric Biosciences has announced the issuance of US Patent No. 12,492,179 for its novel neuroplastogenic small-molecule therapeutics aimed at treating psychiatric and neurological disorders. This patent enhances the company's pipeline of non-hallucinogenic molecules, potentially improving efficacy and safety for neuropsychiatric conditions. CEO Joseph Tucker emphasized the significance of this intellectual property in advancing treatment options and attracting partnerships.
Dec 31, 2025
Medications and Vaccines Expected to See Price Hikes in 2026 - Newsweek
In 2026, drugmakers plan to raise prices on over 350 branded medications, including Pfizer's Comirnaty (COVID-19 vaccine) and Ibrance (breast cancer treatment). Pfizer leads with hikes on about 80 drugs, with Comirnaty increasing by 15%. GSK, Sanofi, and Novartis also plan price increases, while some drugs, like Jardiance, will see significant cuts due to government negotiations.
Dec 31, 2025
How Ozempic is transforming dietary habits in the U.S.: Daily Mail charts illustrate the impact on weight loss...
A Cornell University study reveals that GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are reshaping American shopping habits. With usage rising 34% from October 2023 to July 2024, households on these drugs spent less on snacks and fast food while increasing purchases of yogurt and fruit. The market for GLP-1s surpassed $50 billion and could double by 2030.
Dec 31, 2025
Reasons 2026 may mark a pivotal moment for the obesity medication market in India - Business Today
India's obesity drug market is poised for significant growth in 2026, driven by the entry of GLP-1 therapies like Eli Lilly's Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Novo Nordisk's Wegovy (semaglutide). Patent expiries will enable domestic firms like Dr. Reddy’s and Biocon to introduce generics, potentially reducing costs by up to 90%. This shift is expected to reshape obesity management and expand access to treatments.
Dec 31, 2025
Government Prohibits Oral Nimesulide Products Exceeding 100 mg Due to Health Concerns
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has banned the manufacture, sale, and distribution of oral Nimesulide formulations exceeding 100 mg due to health risks, invoking Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. This regulation aims to enhance patient safety and mitigate potential adverse effects associated with higher dosages.
Dec 31, 2025
Everest Medicines Continues to Decline Following Imitation of Chinese Biopharma Company's Kidney Treatment
Everest Medicines' shares fell 2.3% after the approval of a generic version of its IgA nephropathy treatment, Nefecon, which contains budesonide. The patent for Nefecon expires on May 7, 2029, prompting concerns over patent protection. Competitors CSPC Pharmaceutical and Qilu Pharmaceutical are also pursuing generic approvals, potentially launching before the patent expiration.
Dec 30, 2025
The 2026 Income Stronghold: Reasons Big Pharma is the Safe Investment for the Upcoming Year
As 2025 concludes, investors are shifting focus to the pharmaceutical sector, seeking stability amid economic uncertainty. Companies like AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV) are raising dividends, while the industry prepares for Medicare price negotiations starting January 1, 2026. The sector is expected to benefit from strategic pivots and AI integration, despite challenges from the Inflation Reduction Act.
Dec 30, 2025
New weight-loss medications being tested in 2026 could surpass Ozempic and Zepbound, according to New Scientist.
Recent advancements in obesity treatment include drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, both containing semaglutide, and Zepbound, which features tirzepatide. Upcoming treatments, such as CagriSema and amycretin, show potential for greater weight loss. Experts anticipate that these innovations could lead to more effective therapies with fewer side effects, enhancing patient outcomes in the fight against obesity.
Dec 30, 2025
Prices for weight-loss medications are expected to decrease by 2026 | New Scientist
The rising demand for weight-loss drugs like semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) has led to shortages and high prices, limiting access for many. However, the approval of orforglipron by Lilly and the expiration of semaglutide patents in several countries could make these treatments more affordable. The WHO emphasizes that medication should complement lifestyle changes for effective obesity management.
Dec 30, 2025
Insilico Medicine unveils novel SIK inhibitors - BioWorld
Insilico Medicine Inc. has announced the discovery of new serine/threonine-protein salt-inducible kinase (SIK) inhibitors, which show potential for treating various conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, NASH/MASH, giant cell arteritis, and type 2 diabetes.
Dec 30, 2025
FDA Accelerates Approval Process for Two Promising Merck (MRK) Medications - Yahoo Finance
Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) has received FDA fast-track designations for two experimental drugs: enlicitide decanoate, a cholesterol treatment, and sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT), a cancer therapy. These drugs are part of the Commissioner’s National Priority Voucher program, aiming for expedited reviews. Merck plans to submit applications for enlicitide in April and sac-TMT later in the year.
Dec 30, 2025
A transformative change is anticipated in 2025, spanning pharmaceuticals, health insurance, and digital healthcare.
In 2025, India's pharmaceutical sector showed resilience, with exports thriving as blockbuster drugs lost patent protection, according to Bhavin Mehta of Kilitch Drugs. AI became integral to healthcare, enhancing operations and diagnostics, as noted by Sagar Sen of Qure.AI. The health insurance market expanded, driven by digital infrastructure and regulatory changes, while digital health platforms integrated into care delivery, as highlighted by Ayush Jain of Mindbowser.
Dec 30, 2025
FDA Accelerates Approval Process for Two Promising Merck (MRK) Medications - Finviz
Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is set to fast-track two experimental drugs, enlicitide decanoate for cholesterol and sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT) for cancer, under the FDA's National Priority Voucher program. Applications are expected in April and October/November 2024, respectively. This initiative aims to expedite reviews for drugs with significant public health importance.
Dec 29, 2025
Gwalior Court Imposes 7-Year Rigorous Imprisonment on Operator of Counterfeit Drug Manufacturing Facility
A Gwalior court has sentenced Sanjay Pathak, operator of an unlicensed fake medicine factory, to 7 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a substantial fine. This ruling marks a significant step in combating the issue of counterfeit drugs.
Dec 29, 2025
Pfizer shares remain around $25 as investors on Wall Street anticipate the upcoming major event - TS2 Tech
Pfizer shares rose 0.24% to $25.09 as investors await the company's quarterly update on February 3. The drugmaker anticipates 2026 revenue between $59.5 billion and $62.5 billion, facing challenges from declining COVID product sales and patent expirations. Additionally, Pfizer's Phase 3 trial of Padcev with Keytruda showed positive results for bladder cancer treatment.
Dec 29, 2025
Novo Nordisk Faces Off Against Russian Imitator of Ozempic in Patent Conflict - Semana.com
La impresión 3D está revolucionando diversas industrias, desde la fabricación de prótesis en Colombia por Fabrilab hasta la construcción de viviendas con tecnología de Siemens. En EE. UU., un juez bloqueó temporalmente la venta de planos para fabricar armas en impresoras 3D, reavivando el debate sobre su uso. Empresas como Undos3D y Protolab3D están liderando la adopción de esta tecnología en el sector médico y de prototipos.
Dec 29, 2025
Redesigning popular medications to address patent expirations has its constraints - Pharmaceutical Technology
Pharmaceutical companies are revamping best-selling drugs to mitigate revenue losses from impending patent expiries. Notable examples include MSD's Keytruda (pembrolizumab) with a new subcutaneous formulation and Bayer/Regeneron's Eylea HD (aflibercept). These innovations aim to enhance patient convenience and reduce treatment times, particularly in oncology and ophthalmology, while addressing competition from biosimilars.
Dec 29, 2025
Researchers at Lund University Discover Statins and Phenothiazines as Possible Medications ... - GeneOnline
Researchers at Lund University have identified a promising drug combination of statins and phenothiazines for treating aggressive neuroblastoma in children. Utilizing machine learning, the study showed that this combination slowed tumor growth and improved survival rates in preclinical models, warranting further investigation into its therapeutic potential.
Dec 29, 2025
Audio feature: Could groundbreaking obesity medications transform the approach to addiction therapy? - Nature
Researchers are exploring the potential of GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic, to reduce cravings for nicotine, alcohol, and opioids. While anecdotal evidence suggests these weight-loss medications may aid in overcoming addictions, clinical studies are still in early stages. Experts express optimism, noting that no new class of addiction medicine has been approved in decades.
Dec 29, 2025
Exploring the Top 10 Secrets of China's Pharmaceutical Sector in 2025: Revealing the Unknowns - 36氪
In 2025, China's innovative drug industry showed signs of recovery, with increased IPO activity and drug approvals. However, challenges remain, including high valuations and regulatory scrutiny. Key questions about future market trends, the impact of commercial insurance on high-priced drugs, and the potential for blockbuster BD drugs will shape the industry in 2026. Companies like CSPC Pharmaceutical Group and 3SBio are central to this evolving landscape.
Dec 29, 2025
Patent reveals novel DHODH inhibitors targeting malaria - BioWorld
Medicines for Malaria Venture and The University of Texas System have announced new dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) inhibitors effective against Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, potentially advancing malaria treatment options.
Dec 29, 2025
Redesigning popular medications to address patent expirations has its constraints - Yahoo Finance
Pharmaceutical companies are transitioning from intravenous (IV) to subcutaneous (SC) formulations, enhancing patient convenience and reducing treatment times. Notable examples include MSD's Keytruda (pembrolizumab) and Bayer's Eylea HD (aflibercept). As patent expiries loom, firms are innovating to maintain market share, with a focus on durable therapies in oncology and ophthalmology, despite potential economic challenges.
Dec 28, 2025
Telangana's DCA intends to implement real-time notifications, according to DrugsControl Media Services.
The Drugs Control Administration in Telangana is set to implement a real-time digital alert system to enhance communication of drug safety warnings. This initiative aims to notify all stakeholders on the same day an advisory is issued, improving response times and safety measures in the pharmaceutical sector.
Dec 28, 2025
Following the codeine scandal, reforms for wholesale drug licensing are being considered.
The Food Safety and Drugs Administration (FSDA) in Uttar Pradesh is initiating reforms in the wholesale drug licensing framework following the sale of 3.27 crore bottles of codeine-based cough syrups worth ₹704 crore. These changes aim to prevent illegal distribution and enhance regulatory oversight in the pharmaceutical sector.
