Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world.Leqembi, a new biotech drug, has been approved in the UK, but reimbursement may not follow due to concerns about the cost to the NHS. The FDA defended its med device chief's tenure after ethics concerns were raised. Employers are expecting higher health costs next year, driven by rising pharmacy spending on drugs like GLP-1 for obesity. BridgeBio has sent rare disease drugs to a new company called GondolaBio, backed by investors including Viking Global Investors and Sequoia Capital. Versant has launched a new startup called Borealis Biosciences with funding from Novartis.New Jersey has announced plans to erase $100 million in medical debt for nearly 50,000 residents, following similar initiatives by other states and federal regulators. Molina Healthcare has extended CEO Joe Zubretsky's contract through 2027, along with a stock grant potentially worth $51 million. Additionally, CMS has received 12,000 complaints of noncompliance with the No Surprises Act, resulting in $1.7 million in restitution.Novartis and Versant have launched Borealis Biosciences with $150 million in funding to develop RNA therapeutics for kidney diseases, following the success of Chinook Therapeutics. Meanwhile, Wuxi Biologics reported a 24% drop in net profit in the first half of 2024 despite signing a record number of new projects. In other news, Biogen and Eisai's Alzheimer's drug Leqvembi has been approved in the UK but deemed too expensive by NICE, while Biomarin has brought on Roche and Amgen alums in an executive restructuring.The text discusses the potential impact of the Democrats' proposed changes to Medicare drug price negotiations on the pharmaceutical industry's research and development (R&D) efforts. Kamala Harris is expected to address these issues during the Democratic National Convention, with the party aiming to lower drug prices by increasing the number of drugs subject to negotiations.TE Connectivity offers sensor solutions for minimally invasive devices, providing precision and safety for procedures such as cardiac mapping and ablation. Their sensor technology can enhance efficacy in heart arrhythmia treatments. The comprehensive sensor solutions guide provides detailed applications, key features, and benefits of their sensors.The text discusses the importance of collecting and using social determinants of health (SDOH) data in health economics and outcomes research (HEOR). It highlights the challenges of collecting SDOH data and provides insights on how to effectively use the data while ensuring privacy and security. The text emphasizes the significance of diverse and inclusive research practices, evaluating data validity and sourcing, and effectively utilizing SDOH data to gain more accurate insights in HEOR.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma and Biotech world. Biopharma news on August 21, 2024 saw changes in Biomarin's C-suite, with Greg Friberg and James Sabry taking over R&D and business development. BridgeBio launched GondolaBio for rare disease drug programs, while Regeneron faced FDA setbacks for a myeloma drug. Avidity and Kymera raised funds, Walgreens partnered with Barda, and Merck licensed an antibody drug conjugate. Thermo Fisher Scientific supported oncology research with new developments in clinical trials. Overall, the industry saw leadership changes, setbacks in drug approvals, fundraising activities, partnerships, and innovations in clinical trials.A study suggested that patients on Novo Nordisk's semaglutide may have a higher risk of suicidal thoughts. The FDA denied Regeneron's drug approval for myeloma due to manufacturing issues. Lawmakers raised concerns about US biopharma companies working with the Chinese military. Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, and Sanofi are each focusing on different markets for their diabetes GLP-1 drugs. The impact of recent Supreme Court decisions on the healthcare and pharma industries is discussed, including challenges against regulations and reforms proposed by President Joe Biden. The uncertainty could jeopardize FDA authority and provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act, adding complexity for pharma companies.The Biosecure Act revealed gaps in domestic drug manufacturing readiness in the US. Different strategies of Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, and Sanofi in developing and distributing their GLP-1 drugs were highlighted. A gene therapy patent ruling raised intellectual property concerns, Genentech closed its cancer immunology group, and layoffs were reported in the industry. House lawmakers expressed worries about US biopharma companies collaborating with the Chinese military on trials. Aadi Bioscience plans to lay off 80% of its R&D staff.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma and Biotech world.J&J has acquired heart failure implant maker V-Wave for up to $1.7 billion, while Medtronic reiterates its unchanged diabetes strategy despite a partnership with Abbott. Histosonics secured $102 million for a noninvasive tumor treatment using sound waves, and Edwards acquired Genesis' TAVR technology. The FDA approved NowDiagnostics' at-home syphilis test, offering results in 15 minutes with a drop of blood. The biotech industry remains strong in 2024, with startups thriving and technology advancements. Small biopharma and CROs are adopting multiple trial technologies, as per a recent survey.23andMe, known for consumer genetic testing, focuses on therapeutics development despite financial struggles and data breach lawsuits. Their lead candidate targets a new cancer treatment pathway using checkpoint inhibitors. Lilly's diabetes drug tirzepatide shows promise in reducing type 2 diabetes risk, while J&J's Rybrevant and Lazcluze combo is FDA-approved for lung cancer. Avidity and Kymera raised funds, Walgreens partnered with BARDA, and Merck licensed an antibody drug conjugate. Humana settles Medicare Part D fraud allegations, Steward hospitals in Massachusetts must sell five facilities, and McLaren Health Care faces another ransomware attack.Eli Lilly's tirzepatide demonstrates a 94% risk reduction for type 2 diabetes in overweight adults, and J&J's Rybrevant combo is the first chemo-free treatment for non-small cell lung cancer. Walgreens and BARDA collaborate to boost decentralized clinical trials, while three drugs are projected to drive drug price negotiation savings in 2026. Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs roles are crucial for market access, AbbVie and Genmab expand Tepkinly's European label, and biopharma companies like Lykos, Galera, and Grail announce staff reductions. AstraZeneca receives FDA approval for Imfinzi's perioperative use.Lykos restructures with significant staff cuts post-FDA rejection of their therapy, Acelyrin shifts focus to thyroid eye disease treatment after layoffs. Biotech IPO sizes are increasing despite slow IPO rates, Lilly opens an R&D hub in Boston, Ovid and Lexicon downsize staff. Stay informed with Biopharma Dive's comprehensive coverage of biotech and pharma industry news.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma and Biotech world.On August 19, 2024, the FDA approved the first at-home syphilis test by NowDiagnostics, providing quick results with just a drop of blood. Dupont acquired Donatelle Plastics for $313 million, while Boston Scientific resubmitted its merger filing for Silk Road Medical. Edwards invested in Genesis Medtech and Biden pledged $150 million for medical technology to enhance cancer surgery. The biotech industry is active, with companies gearing up for the DSCSA deadline and utilizing multiple trial technologies. In the biopharma industry, Bristol Myers' schizophrenia drug is nearing approval, a partial hold was lifted on a Biontech-partnered ADC study, Novo Nordisk plans to build a new plant, and Medicare drug price cuts are impacting pharma profits. Patient-centric commercialization strategies are on the rise, along with concerns about Medicare price cuts affecting drug research and patent protection measures.Bristol Myers Squibb's KarXT faces a PDUFA date for potential approval as a new schizophrenia treatment. AbbVie's Emraclidine also shows promise as a gut-friendly option for schizophrenia patients. Market strategies beyond FDA approval are being explored to ensure successful drug launch and adoption in the competitive landscape.The FDA has cleared Biontech-Medilink's Phase I ADC cancer trial after a partial hold, while Liquidia missed full approval for a pulmonary hypertension drug. Bavarian Nordic is ramping up vaccine production in response to a global health emergency. Developers remain optimistic about psychedelic therapies despite setbacks like Lykos' rejection. Other updates include advancements in various therapeutic spaces and industry shifts such as layoffs.Texas hospitals secured a victory in a lawsuit on low-income payment formulas. Employer healthcare costs are expected to rise due to inflation and specialty drugs. Healthcare bankruptcies have slowed down but financial challenges persist. Payers are leveraging digital technology to improve outcomes and prepare for regulatory changes like the DSCSA deadline. Healthcare organizations are focusing on patient-centric care, combating burnout, and adapting to trends like telehealth and value-based care.In conclusion, the Pharma and Biotech industry is evolving rapidly with advancements in technology, regulatory changes, and shifting market dynamics shaping its future trajectory. Stay tuned for more updates on the latest developments in this dynamic sector.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world.Medicare has revealed the results of drug price negotiations, showing $6 billion in savings for taxpayers from talks involving drugs like Eliquis and Xarelto. Lilly has opened an R&D hub in Boston, while Ovid and Lexicon are facing layoffs. A journal has retracted papers on MDMA-assisted therapy, and Evotec is cutting jobs and exiting gene therapy. Galderma has received FDA approval for a skin condition treatment, and trends in cell therapy research and market strategies of pharma giants are being explored. The impact of AI technology on clinical trials, patient-centric commercialization strategies, and upcoming events in the biopharma industry are also discussed.Texas is suing the Biden administration over a nursing home staffing mandate requiring at least 3.48 hours of care per resident each day. A report accuses HCA of driving away doctors and downgrading care at Mission Hospital after acquiring it. Medicare drug price cuts may have limited early impact but could have bigger future implications for drug research. Nurses may need their own AI documentation tools due to complex work and shifting tasks. Additionally, Medicaid has overtaken Medicare Advantage as a concern for health insurers in the second quarter. The text also includes information on updating healthcare sales approaches and using data to improve patient outcomes.Pfizer and BioNTech's COVID-flu shot candidate faced setbacks in Phase III trials, potentially giving Moderna an advantage with its superior vaccine. Medicare negotiated drug prices touted by the Biden-Harris administration are criticized as hollow victories. Other news includes Lycos slashing its workforce, Bavarian Nordic's potential windfall with an emergency vaccine, and AstraZeneca's Imfinzi scoring FDA approvals. Layoff announcements in the biopharma industry are also highlighted. The role of Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs (QARA) professionals in market access is explored.Walmart's ad unit has experienced significant growth, with ad sales from marketplace sellers increasing by nearly 50% in fiscal Q2. The digital economy is expected to expand, particularly in online retail and online travel. Marketers are increasingly turning to first-party data strategies and behavioral data to enhance their marketing efforts. Industry Dive provides insights and news for marketing leaders, covering topics such as brand strategy, social media, video marketing, and more. Companies can post press releases on Marketing Dive to share announcements with a wide audience.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world.Evotec is exiting the gene therapy field and cutting jobs due to a slowdown in research spending. Merck has made a $700 million bet on an antibody drug for immune diseases, while Lilly has opened a new R&D hub in Boston. Ovid and Lexicon have laid off staff, and Merck's TIGIT drug has failed another trial. Intellia's therapy for hereditary angioedema has succeeded in a study. The gene therapy market is growing, particularly in cancer care, with companies continuing to invest in improving cell therapies. Cabaletta Bio's shares have sunk on safety concerns, while Vertex has secured reimbursement for Casgev in England. The world's priciest drug may save lives, but there are concerns about whether children can access it in time. Overall, the gene therapy industry is experiencing various developments and challenges as companies navigate the evolving landscape.The Biden administration announced that negotiated drug prices through the IRA program are expected to save Medicare $6 billion in 2026, although the actual savings may not be as significant as claimed. Gilead's investment in CymaBay paid off with FDA approval for a drug to treat autoimmune liver disease. Evotec is the latest biopharma company to announce layoffs in August. In other news, Incyte received a second FDA approval for a drug to treat graft-versus-host disease, while bluebird is experiencing slow uptake of its gene therapies for sickle cell and beta-thalassemia. The role of quality assurance and regulatory affairs (QARA) professionals is evolving, with strategies and best practices being discussed. Various marketing campaigns and strategies are being discussed, including Lobos 1707 casting LeBron James as a spy in new ads, Martha Stewart playing an intern in a Fiverr campaign, and US Bank celebrating black achievement with zines in The New York Times. Additionally, Allbirds' CMO talks about the importance of brand building in the company's turnaround plan. The text also includes information about first-party data strategies, an upcoming webinar on the state of marketing and print projects in 2024, and other relevant industry news and resources.In the healthcare industry, Medicare revealed the results of drug price negotiations, which are expected to save taxpayers $6 billion. Kaiser Permanente has implemented an AI documentation tool from Abridge to summarize medical information from patient-clinician conversations. Meanwhile, Medicaid has surpassed Medicare Advantage as a challenge for health insurers in the second quarter, but many still reported significant earnings. In other news, there are updates on healthcare worker strikes and unsealed court filings detailing a Department of Justice investigation into Prospect Medical for possible false claim act violations.The text discusses the health disparities highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly among minority groups, and how these disparities were exacerbated during the crisis. It also explores the importance of building trust among patients of color in the healthcare system despite historical injustices and ongoing disparities. Dr. Reed Tuckson, a leader in public health outreach to people of color, shares lessons learned from the pandemic and discusses how pharma can better serve these communities.The U.S. government has unveiled the prices it will pay for 10 widely used medicines as part of its efforts to lower prescription drug costs through Medicare negotiations. These prices will not take effect until 2026, but the announcement marks a significant step in a process established by the Inflation Reduction Act. Biopharma Dive provides detailed coverage of this development and other industry news, offering insight into topics such as clinical readouts, FDA approvals, gene therapy, drug pricing, and research partnerships.The FDA has approved over 90 new cancer drug

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world.The FDA recently approved Ascendis' drug for a rare endocrine condition, while rejecting MDMA as a therapy aid for PTSD. Pfizer also presented data supporting a case for an RSV shot for immunocompromised adults. Zepbound shortages are starting to ease, but Lilly warns of potential pharmacy availability issues. Galderma has received FDA approval for a skin condition treatment, Nemluvio. In the biotech industry, trends in emerging technologies like gene editing, messenger RNA, and cell therapies are promising new types of medicines. Additionally, there is ongoing progress in cell therapy's impact on cancer care. Despite Merck's TIGIT drug failing another trial, Intellia's therapy succeeded in an HAE study.In other news, Grail plans to cut 350 employees as part of a restructuring effort, while Otsuka Precision Health launches the first digital therapeutic for depression. Globus receives a warning letter over its spine navigation robot, Baxter agrees to sell its kidney care unit to Carlyle for $3.8 billion, and Medtronic wins FDA approval for asleep deep brain stimulation surgery. The medical technology industry is also seeing updates such as FDA approvals for telemonitoring connectivity devices and concerns about undetected bird flu cases.Evotec and Grail have announced job cuts, with Evotec exiting gene therapy and Grail shedding 350 workers. Acelyrin is pivoting away from its main drug and laying off staff to focus on a treatment for thyroid eye disease. Pfizer has appointed an AI chief to expand its digital leadership team. Lilly has opened an R&D hub, while Ovid and Lexicon have laid off staff. The biopharma industry is shifting towards more patient-centric commercialization strategies.Grail is planning to reduce its current workforce by 25% in order to focus on multi-cancer diagnostics. Illumina has outlined a growth roadmap after divesting from Grail, focusing on easier DNA sequencing and improved data analysis for customers. Additionally, companies like Pfizer and Biontech are now shifting their focus to oncology drugs after finding success with COVID-19 vaccines.Experts are analyzing the potential impact of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) as the industry awaits the first negotiated drug prices under Medicare. The biotech industry is adapting to a new normal, with M&A activity surging and IPOs making a return. Companies like Lilly and Boundless Bio are making moves in R&D and workforce adjustments.Overall, the biotech industry is navigating a changing business landscape marked by strategic consolidation and renewed investor focus on innovation.

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world. Steward, a bankrupt healthcare organization, is set to sell its physician group to a private equity firm for $245 million. Kaiser's operating margin has risen to 3.1% in the second quarter, indicating a strong performance for the nonprofit giant. Stryker is acquiring smart hospital technology firm care.ai to enhance its health IT offering. For-profit health systems have seen an increase in Medicaid supplemental payments in the second quarter, although executives state it is not enough to cover costs. The importance of integrating generative AI in the healthcare landscape is highlighted, with tips on selecting the right vendor for AI solutions. The newsletter also includes insights on using data to improve patient outcomes and transforming healthcare through tailored change management strategies.Transitioning to the next news segment:Lilly has opened a new R&D hub in Boston, while Ovid and Lexicon have laid off staff. Biotech M&A activity is increasing, with Crown Laboratories acquiring Revance Therapeutics. Galderma has received FDA approval for Nemluvio, a competitor to Dupixent for treating prurigo nodularis. Biotech IPOs are crucial for the industry, with Actuate Therapeutics recently pricing its IPO. A journal retracted papers on MDMA-assisted therapy following FDA rejection. Companies like Pfizer and Lilly are focusing on patient-centric commercialization strategies. Key events include a webinar on increasing a drug's chances of reaching the commercial market and company announcements from Procdna, Authenticx, and others.Moving on to the next segment:Atai, a biopharmaceutical company, has seen early success with its psychedelic depression drug in a phase Ib study. This comes after the FDA rejected another company's MDMA-assisted PTSD therapy. Galderma's IL-31 injection has received FDA approval for the skin disorder prurigo nodularis, with potential for use in atopic dermatitis. Novo Nordisk is continuing to pursue its insulin icodec program, aiming to file a combination with semaglutide by the end of the year. Q2 earnings for biopharma companies have been mixed, with some exceeding expectations while others faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccine issues. The role of Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs (QARA) professionals is becoming increasingly important in the biopharma industry, transitioning from the factory floor to the boardroom.Transitioning smoothly to the next news:Gain Therapeutics is making strides in developing a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease that targets alpha synuclein through a small molecule that binds to an enzyme coded by a specific gene. This approach aims to modulate the underlying biology of the disease. The company's chief medical officer, Dr. Jonas Hannestad, emphasized the importance of biomarkers in neurodegenerative drug development to monitor the effectiveness of treatments. Gain Therapeutics faces challenges in financing, but their innovative approach could change how Parkinson's disease is treated.Additionally, an emerging drug candidate for multiple sclerosis from Immunic has shown promising safety and antiviral effects.Transitioning smoothly again:Liquid I.V. is running a multichannel campaign called "Indulge in Hydration" to help consumers beat the summer heat. The campaign includes augmented reality activations, Netflix ad testing, and a Spotify takeover. Oreo and Coca-Cola have partnered to create a drink and cookie combination featuring the iconic brands, with a marketing campaign centered around "besties." LG is boosting its home appliances with a competition show on Prime Video called "Estate of Survival." WPP has downgraded its full-year outlook as it works to modernize its offering.Concluding this episode:This week in biotech news, startup Halda raised $126 million to advance a new type of targeted

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma and Biotech world.The FDA approved Ascendis' drug for a rare endocrine condition, while rejecting MDMA as a therapy aid for PTSD. Pfizer presented new data on their RSV shot for immunocompromised adults. Halda, a startup, raised $126 million to advance targeted cancer therapy. A journal retracted papers on MDMA-assisted therapy due to undisclosed unethical conduct. Biopharma Dive provides in-depth coverage of news and trends in the biotech and pharma industries, from clinical trials to FDA approvals and research partnerships. Companies like Pfizer and Lilly are shifting towards more patient-centric commercialization strategies.Stryker has announced plans to acquire smart hospital technology firm Care.ai, following a statement by CEO Kevin Lobo about an active deal pipeline for the second half of 2024. Unilabs has partnered with C2N Diagnostics to sell Alzheimer's blood tests in Europe, with C2N recently receiving an investment from Eisai, the developer of the Alzheimer's drug Leqembi. Smiths Medical is recalling infusion pumps due to software issues, while Solventum has raised its earnings forecast after a successful first independent quarter following its separation from 3M. Axogen has named ex-Abbott executive Michael Dale as CEO, replacing Karen Zaderej. Other news includes initial US commercial triclip cases offering hope, FDA rejecting MDMA as a therapy aid for PTSD, and the approval of an EpiPen alternative nasal spray for anaphylaxis. Medtech Dive provides industry news and insights on topics such as medical devices, diagnostics, digital health, regulation/compliance, and more, catering to decision-makers in competitive industries.For-profit health systems received a boost in earnings from Medicaid supplemental payments in the second quarter, although executives stated that it was not enough to cover their costs. Nonprofits in the healthcare sector experienced a record-low cash on hand in 2023, with little improvement in cash flow between 2022 and 2023. In a significant decision, the FDA rejected the use of MDMA as a therapy aid for PTSD, impacting the growing field of psychedelics research. The importance of integrating generative AI in healthcare organizations for success is highlighted, with advice on choosing the right vendor for AI solutions. Additionally, the newsletter covers topics such as data management for improving patient outcomes, navigating the future of mental healthcare, and updating sales approaches in healthcare. Healthcare Dive provides in-depth journalism and insights on trends shaping healthcare, covering areas such as health IT, policy and regulation, insurance, digital health, payer-provider partnerships, and value-based care.Pfizer has achieved a pivotal Phase III win for its RSV vaccine in immunocompromised adults, showing a strong neutralizing response against both subtypes of the virus. Ascendis Pharma's hypoparathyroidism drug has secured FDA approval after facing regulatory challenges. Halda Therapeutics has raised $126 million to advance two cancer candidates. In the obesity space, there are several clinical trials ongoing, with five candidates expected to release data by the end of 2024. Additionally, other news includes MDMA papers being retracted for unethical conduct, FDA approvals and rejections, and biopharma layoffs.The biotech and pharma industry has been experiencing layoffs due to economic uncertainty, with companies like Entero Therapeutics and Precigen announcing workforce reductions. However, there is hope that an increase in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) could help alleviate the trend of layoffs. Pharma companies are turning to smaller deals and taking companies private to navigate the tough market environment. The rise in M&A, fueled by the impact of the GLP-1 boom, could potentially help mitigate future layoffs in the industry. This shift towards dealmak

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world.Abbott and Medtronic have announced a partnership to develop diabetes technology, with Abbott creating a glucose sensor that will only connect with Medtronic's insulin delivery technology. Nevro is considering a sale in response to increasing competition in the pain market, while the CMS has finalized a notice on Medicare coverage for breakthrough devices. Inspire has received FDA approval for obstructive sleep apnea neurostimulator therapy, J&J has launched a spine surgical robotics platform, and other notable news includes Big Health receiving FDA approval for its digital therapy for insomnia.CVS has cut its earnings guidance for the third time this year and fired the head of its insurance division, Aetna, due to struggles with high medical utilization in the Medicare Advantage sector. More than 700 rural hospitals are at risk of closing due to reimbursement challenges from private payers. Walgreens is considering selling off VillageMD, a reversal of its previous commitment to expanding healthcare delivery offerings. The 5th Circuit Court handed providers a win in no surprises litigation, vacating instructions that favored insurers over providers. Steward Health will lay off over 1,200 workers in Massachusetts as it prepares to close two hospitals. AI is being used in clinical trials to improve participant retention and KPIs.Pharma companies are currently in a strong position, resulting in smaller upfront payments for biotech startups in drug partnerships. Despite this trend, cell therapies in cancer care are evolving and gaining traction. Lilly resolves shortages of glp-1 medicines, Roche licenses technology for an Alzheimer's drug, and Madrigal sees success with the launch of their new drug. Bristol Myers sends back a TIGIT drug to Agenus, Sarepta reveals lower sales but anticipates growth, and best practices for NDAs and BLAs are outlined. Additionally, the CDC issues guidance on painful IUD insertions, a new strategy to suppress HIV shows promise, and 23andMe's sales miss estimates.Merck has made a significant investment of $1.3 billion to acquire Curon Biopharmaceutical's investigational antibody, which targets B cells and is being studied for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and B cell acute lymphocytic leukemia. The deal includes an upfront payment of $700 million. In other news, a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce challenging the IRA's drug price negotiation program, while Gilead Sciences reported strong sales in HIV, cancer, and liver disease treatments in the second quarter. Additionally, Lilly is closing the gap in the weight-loss drug market with their product Zepbound, competing with Novo Nordisk's Wegovy.On August 9, Merck made a $700 million bet on an antibody drug with potential in immune diseases. Zepbound shortages have eased, but Lilly warns that pharmacy availability may still be 'choppy.' Merck's TIGIT drug failed another trial, while Intellia's therapy succeeded in a study on hereditary angioedema. Sarepta revealed lower sales for Elevidys but remains optimistic about future opportunities. Biotech companies are receiving smaller upfront payments in drug partnerships, reflecting weaker leverage in deal talks. Cell therapy's impact in cancer care is growing, with ongoing investments to improve it.A district court judge dismissed a lawsuit from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce challenging the Biden administration's drug pricing program that allows Medicare to negotiate prices with pharmaceutical companies. This program aims to lower drug prices starting in 2026, with ten drugs selected for negotiation in the first round. Despite legal challenges from pharma giants like Merck & Co. and AstraZeneca, the judge ruled that the plaintiffs did not have standing to sue. This decision is seen as a setback for big pharma.