MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'aventis'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:02:04 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118989&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fpharma-facebook-pages-being-phased-out.html (Source: Pharma Marketing Blog) Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118989 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:06:00 +0100 5118989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5077678&cid=t_115614_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2F5hHFowu-r40%2F On June 9, 2011, sanofi-aventis U.S. announced the “sanofi-aventis U.S. Innovation Challenge: Data, Design, Diabetes” at the National Institute of Health’s Health Data Initiative Forum. The challenge, which launched on July 1, integrates open data with a human-centered view into diabetes, and will award $220,000 in total prize money. The challenge is designed for fast learning, so that innovators can create the needed service solutions for people living with diabetes. It brings together the richness of open data sets made available on healthdata.gov, the values of human-centered design, and the leading edge methodology of the top innovation accelerators. Until July 31st, innovators can submit their concepts on www.datadesigndiabetes.com.  In early August, an independent panel of exp... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5077678 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:30:17 +0100 5077678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008655&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fcitizens-petition-filed-with-fda-likely.html (Source: Pharma Marketing Blog) Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008655 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 10:57:00 +0100 5008655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4960264&cid=t_115614_134_f&fid=35193&url=http%3A%2F%2Fannetics.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fmid-tour-in-americas-dairyland-with.html I am starting to lose track of time after multiple days of racing here in Wisconsin. Today is Tuesday I think?  So far our team has raced in Shorewood, Thiensville, Grafton, Waukesha, and Milwaukee; we have upcoming races in Sheboygan (Thurs), Fond du Lac (Fri), Milwaukee (Sat) and finally Madison (Sun).  We also had the pleasure of riding in the American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure in Grafton before our race there, and spent another day sharing our experiences with exercise and diabetes with local health care providers.  We have been taking turns writing up reports, which are posted at the Team Type 1 website here.  If you are in the area, we would love to have you come out for a race!  Please come find us and say hello.  We have women racing in both wo... Annetics blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4960264 Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:42:00 +0100 4960264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902474&cid=t_115614_107_f&fid=36672&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sciencebase.com%2Fscience-blog%2Fdrug-firms-cut-vaccine-prices-in-developing-world.html Drug firms cut vaccine prices in developing world – This is good news: Several major drugs companies have announced big cuts to the amounts they charge for their vaccines in the developing world. GSK, Merck, Johnson & Johnson and Sanofi-Aventis have agreed to cut prices through the international vaccine alliance Gavi. I can think of one problem, however, aside from the antivax conspiracy theory nonsens that will arise, and that's the potential for blackmarket profiteering… Related Posts:H5N1 Vaccine AvailableBird Flu VaccineNeedle free bird flu vaccineEradicating polioThe push and pull of third world drugsCut-price vax for developing world is a post from: Sciencebase Science Blog (Source: Sciencebase Science Blog) Sciencebase Science Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902474 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 09:00:06 +0100 4902474 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893917&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FaIPonxw6_os%2F One year after an analysis of five studies involving some 60,000 patients found links between angiotensin receptor blockers and an increased risk of cancer, the FDA has now decided that these meds - which are used to control high blood pressure, do not pose such a risk. The study, which was published in The Lancet Oncology and prompted the FDA review, found that 7.2 percent of patients on an ARB were diagnosed with cancer compared with 6 percent on a placebo, which was deemed statistically significant. Put another way: one extra cancer case would occur for every 105 people taking the meds for about four years (back story). Most of the patients were taking Boehringer Ingelheim’s Micardis, a $1.5 billion seller, prompting an angry rebuttal from the drugmaker. Other ARBs that were studied i... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893917 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 19:21:10 +0100 4893917 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4795056&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FgtIUt5aYG24%2F How closely tied are professional medical societies to drug and device makers? Just how much money do some receive? And how obvious is the spending at annual meetings? The answers - some have very close ties, get lots of money and the outlay can be enough to burst a blood vessel. Take the Heart Rhythm Society, which is holding its annual to-do in San Francisco this week. For instance, Sanofi-Aventis shelled out a total of $351,00, which was divided this way: $110,000 on programs & guides; another $110,000 on educational support; $96,000 for exhibit space; $25,000 for ‘turndown service,’ and $10,000 for bag inserts and cards. Similarly, Johnson & Johnson spent $386,750. Here’s how: $275,000 for exhibit space and lounge;s $36,000 on educational support; $25,000 for ban... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4795056 Fri, 06 May 2011 13:44:32 +0100 4795056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4789635&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fh0ku9JI07Eo%2F An investigation by India’s health ministry has found that drugmakers running clinical trials in the country have not compensated survivors of most volunteers who died during their studies. Of 671 deaths that were reported last year, there is evidence that compensation was given in just three cases, The Business Standard writes. And so, the health ministry has asked 44 drugmakers to explain why they have not provided compensation, which is mandatory under the current law. Among those queried were Eli Lilly, Novartis, Pfizer, Bayer, Merck, Johnson & Johnson and Sanofi-Aventis. For instance, data compiled by the ministry show there were 152 deaths reported during Sanofi trials and 138 took place in Bayer trials. A Novartis spokesperson tells the paper that its clinical trial inves... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4789635 Thu, 05 May 2011 12:27:52 +0100 4789635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4759035&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F04%2Fyoutube-interruptus-dear-whyinsulin-why.html DigiatlBulldog just tweeted this: "Breaking News: GoInsulin's YouTube replacement WhyInsulin is now live http://bit.ly/eDX0cT #socpharm"The WhyInsulin Youtube Channel seems to be Sanofi-Aventis' latest venture into social media. Importantly, the site allows visitors to submit comments, which is rarely something pharma companies do.I submitted this comment, which is "pending approval":"Why was Shenee's video interrupted by the reading of the LANTUS safety information?"What I was referring to was a dreadful blue screen and voiceover segment that abruptly ended Shenee's story. "Shenee is an active wife and mother who enjoys bowling, fishing, reading and cooking exotic foods with her husband." The blue screen, which began 55 seconds into the 3.04 minute video, merely showed a still text image ... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4759035 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 17:11:00 +0100 4759035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4714693&cid=t_115614_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F04%2Fthird-rail-that-no-one-wishes-to.html DiscussionWhile the data from this case-study were limited, they do suggest that major private foundations that support global health, and by extension, health care, services, and policy research may have institutional conflicts of interest, and their leaders may have personal conflicts of interest. It is possible that these conflicts have steered global health policy to favor vested interests, particularly towards approaches that depend on drugs and devices, perhaps instead of more effective ones using less technology.Furthermore, it is possible that that these conflicts of interest have helped create the anechoic effect.  Conflicts of interest could have pushed the foundations in directions that favored specific vested interests, and away from... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4714693 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:11:00 +0100 4714693 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4664473&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FCFkCzxDEPE8%2F File this under praying for relief. Several religious groups - including an order of Catholic nuns and a chain of Catholic hospitals - are pressuring a few big drugmakers to exercise some price restraint and have placed proposals that will be voted on during upcoming annual shareholder meetings. Such efforts are not new, but the latest attempt comes after one Wall Street analyst reported that prices for 130 best-selling brand-name drugs rose 6.9 last year, which was the biggest increase in a decade. For instance, a shareholder proposal in the Pfizer proxy from The Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth, which is based in New Jersey, states that the cost of medicines has “skyrocketed in this country in recent years” and the “failure to control costs could undermine the goal... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4664473 Fri, 01 Apr 2011 12:37:46 +0100 4664473 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4664476&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FxYlfDINAsQc%2F And so, another working week is about to end. This is, of course, the celebrated signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda includes watching one of the short people in a lacrosse match, dining with some of our favorite relatives and promenade with the official Pharmalot mascots. And you? Maybe you can watch that movie you never saw or catch up on some reading. How about spending time with a special someone? Whatever you do, be safe and enjoy. Catch you soon… Sanofi Faces Shareholder Suit Over Acomplia Data (Reuters) Japan Nuclear Crisis Adds Urgency To Radiation Drugs (New York Times) The Rise In Stolen Pharmaceuticals (Fortune) Paxil May Make Adults More Suicidal (Reuters) Fire Damages Roche Warehouse In Hungary (Budapest Business Journal) Fertility Drug May Be Linked To Fa... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4664476 Fri, 01 Apr 2011 11:49:14 +0100 4664476 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653603&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FSGckQ4pqQfc%2F The US Supreme Court ruled today that Santa Clara County cannot proceed with a lawsuit alleging its hospitals and clinics were overcharged for prescription meds by various drugmakers, which failed to offer discounts as part of what is known as the 340B program. This offers access to discounted drugs to healthcare entities certified by the US Department of Health and Human Services. The 8-to-0 decision overturned a federal appeals court ruling of a lawsuit filed in 2005 against Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Bayer, GlaxoSmithKline, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck and Sanofi-Aventis, among others. The county had filed suit after the HHS Office of Inspector General found the drugmakers had violated pricing ceilings between 2001 and 2005. The dispute centered on the rights of 14,500 health providers that sp... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653603 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 15:52:55 +0100 4653603 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4627015&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F4tFBEcAGy0Q%2F Never mind a consent decree. Genzyme continues to have manufacturing problems at its Allston Landing, Massachusetts facility. The biotech today disclosed that a lot of its Fabrazyme med, which is used to treat Fabry’s disease, was rejected for failing to meet quality standards and the move will further limit supplies to patients who are already suffering from rationing. “As you know, we have been operating with very limited inventory of Fabrazyme. Because inventory is so limited, loss of this specific lot of Fabrazyme will have an impact on some patients in the coming months. For some patients, this may mean delaying scheduled infusions immediately; for some patients, it may mean missing one or more infusions altogether over the next few months. All regions will share the impac... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4627015 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 22:18:21 +0100 4627015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4622507&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FenMMgf6D0z8%2F Good morning, everyone, and nice to see you again. Another overcast day here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are, once again, hustling short people off to the local schoolhouse. As you know, this calls for a cup of stimulation or two - our flavor today is pumpkin spice. Please feel free to join us. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits from around your world. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch… Merck And Sanofi Abandon Animal Health Joint Venture (Reuters) Bristol Reports Positive Results For Ipilimumab Melanoma Med (Associated Press) Pfizer Lipitor Subsidy May Hurt Ranbaxy (Bloomberg News) Cephalon To Acquire Gemin X For $225M (Associated Press) Many Gastric Banding Patients Have Complications (HealthDay News) FDA Agrees To Review Shire Angioedema Drug (Pharma Times... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4622507 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 11:55:44 +0100 4622507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4606052&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FFiK0SOKwv4Q%2F Where, oh where, did your health care budget go? A larger chunk apparently went to pay for brand-name* prescription meds which, on average, rose 6.9 percent last year. The increase nudged past the 6.8 percent average advance registered in 2008, which was the largest annual jump since Barclays Capital began tracking price hikes, The Wall Street Journal reports. Some of the biggest: the Benicar blood pressure pill sold by Daiichi Sankyo rose 29.3 percent; the Gleevec cancer treatment marketed by Novartis jumped 20.9 percent; Johnson & Johnson’s Concerta pill for ADD moved up 19.7 percent; Pfizer’s Lipitor cholesterol blockbuster popped 12.4 percent, and the Plavix bloodthinner sold by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Sanofi-Aventis rose 13.2 percent. Obviously, drugmakers are &#8220... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4606052 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 12:15:48 +0100 4606052 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575244&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FyX0B1GekJDo%2F Earlier this week, we wrote how the European Association for the Study of the Liver had difficulty maintaining an embargo on abstracts to be reviewed at its upcoming annual conference, even though the material is freely available on the Internet (see here). Then Embargo Watch notes that the public relations firm for the EASL is Cohn & Wolfe, which also represents various drugmakers, such as Allergan, Genzyme, Sanofi-Aventis, Boehringer-Ingelheim and Merck (see this). This raises a question: how can a public relations firm equitably run the media operations for a professional society conference and simultaneously represent drugmakers who may have a great deal at stake at these conferences? You know, abstracts from one or more clients could be on display at the gathering. How can the EA... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575244 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:36:35 +0100 4575244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575247&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F0Udf2nUwwkU%2F And so another working week will soon draw to a close. This, of course, means that the time has come to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda is rather modest - we hope to do fun things with assorted short people, catch up on some sleep and read interesting documents about a big drugmaker (this can actually be relaxing). What about you? Will you cavort with a special someone? Run some errands? Make plans to escape somewhere? Whatever your fancy, be safe and enjoy. Meanwhile, here a few tidbits. See you soon… Merck Not Obligated To Accept Bid For Dutch Organon Unit (Dow Jones) Amgen Will Buy Pfizer Plant In Ireland (Bloomberg News) Arena Pharma Narrows Losses (Associated Press) Roche’s Accutane Caused Tragedy For An Actor (Bloomberg News) Dendreon Gets OK To Expand Provenge C... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575247 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 12:37:29 +0100 4575247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4570763&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FNmT5C8tDVOY%2F Hello, everyone, and nice to see you again. A spot of rain is falling on the Pharmalot corporate campus, but our spirits remain sunny thanks to the Morning Mayor, who would always say: ‘Every brand new day should be unwrapped like a precious gift.’ So while you tug on the ribbon, please join us for a cup of stimulation and help us scan the news of the world. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch… FDA Approves First New Lupus Drug In 56 Years (Associated Press) Vertex Moves Ahead With Epilepsy Drug (Boston Business Journal) J&J Hip Replacement Has 49 Percent UK Failure Rate (Bloomberg News) Epizyme And Eisai Form A Partnership (Boston Globe) FDA OKs Hospira Generic Of Taxotere Cancer Med (Reuters) Quintiles Eyes More Deals With Credit Facility (Outsourcing Phar... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4570763 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 12:59:47 +0100 4570763 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4560595&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FJEcHIO2cVRw%2F Here a layoff, there a layoff. The parade of job cuts continues apace as Sanofi-Aventis is planning to shed about 700 jobs in Europe as part of an ongoing shuffling of regional operations, according to La Tribune. Units in Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Portugal, Spain, Hungary, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic and the United Kingdom are being eyed for reorganization. After the shifts, the drugmaker will operate 10 European subsidiaries, compared with more than 30 currently. “Officially, the management wants to increase efficiency but it is mainly to save cost structure,” a Sanofi-Aventis union member tells the paper. “Ultimately, we fear that Sanofi does not turn its back on Europe”, says another. Some functions will be outsourced; payroll will go to Romania. Me... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4560595 Tue, 08 Mar 2011 13:53:16 +0100 4560595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4545252&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FgKTyXRkHZp0%2F For those who wonder why drugmakers shy away from head-to-head studies, consider the plight of Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Eli Lilly and Alkermes. A newly released study shows their forthcoming Bydureon diabetes med - a once-weekly injectable that is designed to supplant the twice-a-day Byetta - failed to lower blood sugar as effectively as a rival drug, Novo Nordisk’s Victoza. The results are causing investors to pound Amylin stock - shares were down about 25 percent all morning - as some analysts now question the ability of the drugmakers to successfully win FDA approval for the med anytime soon. The agency, you may recall, last year requested more info on manufacturing and a risk mitigation plan. Meanwhile, Victoza has been available more than a year. The bottom line: Patients who too... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4545252 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 20:18:12 +0100 4545252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4522283&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fmethod-acting-for-real-patients-who.html The InPharm post "Sanofi shifts video focus to YouTube" confirmed my belief that the pharmaceutical industry saves money by using almost FREE social media tools like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube for its online communication needs. It can scrap expensive, custom-designed, standalone video Web sites, post videos to YouTube instead, and save money. "[T]he size of YouTube’s community (some 490 million unique users per month) and the potential to trim costs – however slightly - following recent warnings that 2011 revenues could fall by 10% are likely factors [for why visitors to Sanofi's standalone video website -- www.sanofi-aventis.tv -- are now sent to a new YouTube channel.]"I decided to visit the "sanofi-aventis TV" English YouTube channel (here).The first video I played was titled "... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4522283 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 19:00:00 +0100 4522283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507579&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FVDH6IuJdeJY%2F You read it here first. In a harsh warning letter, the FDA has reprimanded Sanofi-Aventis for failing to meet regulatory deadlines for reporting serious side effects with many of its drugs, including the Lovenox blood thinner, the Multaq heart drug and the Allegra D allergy pill, and also did not report post-marketing studies or completed, unpublished clinical trials in NDA annual reports. The seven-page missive, which was dated January 28, comes after the agency reviewed Sanofi paperwork last May. And a separate letter dated February 9 notes that a Sanofi plant in Germany has problems with contamination. When it came to reporting adverse events, however, some reporting delays stretched back as far as 2007 - there was a delay of 896 days in reporting side effects associated with the Glybur... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507579 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:42:33 +0100 4507579 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507581&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FNvoAwJK_fUk%2F Oncology is a big market and getting bigger, of course, but which drugmaker ranks highest is most effective in reaching oncologists? A recent poll of 475 medical and hematological oncologists found that Novartis commands a leading 12.5 share of details, although its position slipped slightly from the previous year, while Roche jumped from 10 percent to 12 percent thanks to combining sales teams with Genentech. Meanwhile, Sanofi-Aventis slid from 8 percent to about 6.5 percent thanks to looming patent expirations for Taxotere and Eloxatin, according to ImpactRx, a market research firm. In line with the results, Genentech tied with OSI Pharmaceuticals as the drugmaker with a top tier sales force, followed by Biogen Idec, Amgen, Eli Lilly and Celgene (here is the report). For the second year ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507581 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 14:08:29 +0100 4507581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489978&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fm5Z4_CQibSM%2F After chasing Genzyme around the table for several months, Sanofi-Aventis has finally reached a deal. Originally, the drugmaker offered $69 a share, but as you know, is paying $74 in cash, or roughly $20 billion, plus an unusual contingent value rights (CVR) that will be priced depending on various factors, such as fixing manufacturing problems and whether the Campath leukemia med is approved for multiple sclerosis. And so the CVR could require additional payouts of up to $4 per CVR later. Or maybe not. As for strategy, Sanofi ceo Chris Viehbacher has pooh-poohed stock buybacks and talked up the value of pursuing Genzyme and its biologics, an area of keen interest to big pharma. Then again, Genzyme is saddled with ongoing manufacturing difficulties that resulted in not only a consent decre... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489978 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 16:34:00 +0100 4489978 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4482972&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FTPwrSwUNAKo%2F Good morning, everyone. Nice to see you again. A sunny day is unfolding here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are happily quaffing our mandatory cup of stimulation. This will be an especially busy day as we must break for a personal matter, but we will endeavor, nonethless, to hunt about for interesting items. Meanwhile, we would like to remind you that we are hosting a webinar on requirements for disclosing payments to physicians (look here). See you soon… Sanofi-Aventis To Buy Genzyme For $20 Billion (Bloomberg News) Sanofi-Aventis Will Withdraw Anzement From Five Countries (Dow Jones) Merck No Longer Has Buyer For Dutch R&D Unit (Reuters) Takeda Strikes Deal With Covance And Quintiles (Outsourcing Pharma) Generic Drugmakers To Support FDA User Fees (Wall Street Jou... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4482972 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 12:56:39 +0100 4482972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4429227&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F6enU1acrRKw%2F File this under ‘going from bad to worse.’ Just a few weeks after the FDA decided to rescind the breast cancer indication for Avastin, the med sold by Roche’s Genentech unit is now linked to an increased risk of causing a fatal reaction when combined with chemotherapy, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (here is the abstract). The side effects occurred in 2.5 percent of patients given Avastin and other meds, compared to 1.7 percent for patients treated with just chemo. The study examined 16 clinical trials of Avastin for breast, lung and other cancers involving 10,217 patients. The most common side effects leading to death were hemorrhage, gastrointestinal tract perforation and infections in patients with weakened immune systems. And t... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4429227 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 13:34:26 +0100 4429227 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4429228&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fl411FQvaYHI%2F Good morning, everyone. How are you today? Here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, the Iceman Cometh, but we are keeping warm with our traditional cup of stimulation. Please join us as we dig in, so to speak, for the usual routine of deadlines and the like. And as always, feel free to share interesting stories. By the way, we would like to note that we are co-sponsoring an upcoming conference on patient adherence. We hope you will join us. Meanwhile, here are a few tidbits to help you along. Have a great day… Lilly & Bristol End Enrollment For Lung Cancer Trial Over Safety (Reuters) Sanofi Fails To Block Generic Taxotere In Australia (Bloomberg News) Glaxo Sells Quest Stake For $1.7 Billion (Reuters) Anti-Counterfeit Rules Will Limit Access To Meds: Oxfam (The Guardian) S&P... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4429228 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 13:05:31 +0100 4429228 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4424448&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F4AV-BeRptIw%2F Once again affirming ongoing safety concerns about the anticipated widespread use of diet pills, the FDA issued a so-called Complete Response Letter for Contrave, a drug developed by Orexigen Therapeutics. The move comes less than two months after an FDA advisory panel recommended the pill for approval, but also voted in favor of requiring additional studies to gauge cardiovascular risks (back story). In disclosing the rejection, Orexigen ceo Michael Narachi disclosed the agency wants the drugmaker to conduct a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. “We are surprised and extremely disappointed,” he says in a statement. Had the FDA approved Contrave, the pill would become the first new prescription diet drug to reach US consumers since 1999, when the FDA endorsed Ro... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4424448 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 13:30:49 +0100 4424448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4411725&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fm_6xhh7VWFQ%2F And so another week will soon draw to a close, which means the time has come to daydream, just a little, about the weekend. Anything special planned? We hope to catch up on our reading and spend time with Mrs. Pharmalot. And we also want to kvell since one of our short people is celebrating another milestone. How about you? Will you take in a movie? Find a good restaurant? Buy a new shovel, perhaps? Whatever your fancy, have a great time, and be safe. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits. See you soon… New Cypress Bioscience Owners Oust CEO (San Diego Union Tribune) Glaxo And Actelion End Development Of Insomnia Pill (Bloomberg News) Bayer And Zydus Cadila Form JV To Sell Drugs In India (Business Standard) Sanofi-Aventis Cancer Drug Has Little Effect In Study (Associated Press) Are Cipla... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4411725 Fri, 28 Jan 2011 13:14:21 +0100 4411725 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4406032&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FT2t_UxFOels%2F Every three months, the Institute for Safe Medicine Practices releases an update on drug safety after examining adverse event reports and so here are the latest findings: Pfizer’s Chantix quit-smoking pill continued to account for large numbers of reported serious psychiatric side effects; Johnson & Johnson’s Levaquin was suspect in more reports of serious injury than any other antibiotic. Still more safety signals were spotted for the Multaq heart drug sold by Sanofi-Aventis, and reports of serious injuries associated with Johnson & Johnson recalls continued to dominate all new case reports indicating a product problem. Overall, the FDA received 33,068 domestic reports of serious injury, disability or death associated with drugs, a 12 percent increase from a year ear... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4406032 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 16:11:17 +0100 4406032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4399822&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FYUnyDo-9nKo%2F For the past year, several big drugmakers have been embracing Russia as one of the next emerging markets in which to invest. Sanofi-Aventis, AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Nycomed, Pfizer and Servier, among others, have previously announced intentions or are possible plans to establish or expand manufacturing facilities there (back story). But apparently few are moving fast enough for Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, who issued what amounts to a warning on the Russian government website to drugmakers that do not help expand the domestic market: “There will be restrictions for (global drugmakers) in the Russian market if they do not launch production and transfer technology,” according to In-Pharma Technologist. Then, sounding a little bit like a watchdog from a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4399822 Wed, 26 Jan 2011 14:10:22 +0100 4399822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4399825&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fix8D3iySYW0%2F Good morning, everyone. Yet another snowy day here on the picturesque Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are arming ourselves with numerous shovels and cups of stimulation. Nonetheless, we intend to maintain the usual flow of interesting items and, with that in mind, here are a few tidbits to get you going. Hope your day goes well and stay in touch… Mitsubishi Tanabe Recalls Injectables Not Properly Tested (Bloomberg News) The Man Who Sold Maximuscle To Glaxo (The Daily Mail) Pfizer And Progenics Recall Relistor Injection Kits (Bloomberg News) Servier Founder Quits As Head Of Industry Group (Pharma Times) Allegra Is Approved For Over The Counter (Boston Globe) SinoPharm Plans $760M In Acquisitions (Bloomberg News) FDA Wants Data On Gilead-Tibotec HIV Drug (San Francisco Business Ti... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4399825 Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:09:09 +0100 4399825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4382951&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F8XrunC8mJJE%2F And so, another work week will soon draw to a close. Although once again, we are dusting off the snow on the Pharmalot corporate campus. Please excuse any delays this morning, but due to the economy, we no longer have a maintenance crew. This does give us the opportunity, though, to daydream about weekend plans - hanging out with the short people and catching up on some reading. What about you? Anything fun on the agenda? How about a good flick or spending time with someone special? Whatever you do, enjoy. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits. Catch you soon… EMA To Review Safety Of Sanofi’s Multaq (Wall Street Journal) AstraZeneca Responds To FDA About Brilinta (Bloomberg News) Biogen Boosts Prices Of MS Drug (Wall Street Journal) EU Panel Does Not Recommend Biogen MS Pill (Reuter... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4382951 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 12:55:15 +0100 4382951 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4361308&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FGTi6GBLv1fs%2F Hello, everyone, and nice to see you again. We hope your extended weekend - on this side of the pond, that is - was pleasant. Now, of course, the routine resumes with all those meetings and deadlines. So please join us for a cup of stimulation as we dust the snow off the Pharmalot corporate campus, ready the short people for the school house and prowl around for interesting items. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch… FDA Staff Questions Lilly Alzheimer’s Drug (Reuters) Teva Will Lay Off 200 California Workers (Orange County Register) Pfizer Sued Over Dilantin Side Effects (Madison-St. Clair Record) Ariad Stock Pops After Sarcoma Drug Meets Study Goal (Bloomberg News) Servier Chief Called To Mediator Court Hearing (The Telegraph) EU Will Ask Sanofi To Write Docs About M... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4361308 Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:52:21 +0100 4361308 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349700&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F5NrfDeio_0c%2F And so another working week will soon draw to a close. In this case, a long weekend is about to begin, at least on this side of the pond. Have any special plans? We expect to tidy up around the Pharmalot corporate campus, spend time with our short and not-so-short people, and take a long walk or two. What about you? Take in a movie or read a good book? Maybe get rid of some flab? Whatever you do, have a great time and come back energized. Meanwhile, here are a few tidbits to help you along. See you next week… Abbott Labs Withdraws Psoriasis Drug (Wall Street Journal) Sanofi Tells Docs About Liver Transplants In Multaq Patients (CardioBrief) Glaxo Malaria Vaccine Works For 15 Months: Study (Bloomberg News) Ambien Makes Older People Too Sleepy (Reuters) Allos Therapeutics Lays Off 13 P... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349700 Fri, 14 Jan 2011 13:00:43 +0100 4349700 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4343334&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FCgLvWskDCNk%2F Hello, everyone, and top of the morning to you. A steely, wintry sky hovers over the Pharmalot corporate campus this morning, where we are enduring the usual routine of hustling short people to this or that school house. As we cope - where is that cup of stimulation? - please join us in perusing the news of the world. Meanwhile, feel free to pass along interesting tidbits. Have a good one… AstraZeneca And Cancer Charity Strike Drug Testing Deal (Bloomberg News) FDA Warns Of Acetaminophen Risks Of Liver Toxicity (Drug Store News) Drug Shortages Persist With No End In Sight (Daily Finance) Biotechs And Generics Spar Over Biologic Exclusivity (The Wall Street Journal) FDA Says Sanofi-Aventis’ Lantus Link To Cancer Is Unclear (Reuters) US Cancer Costs Are Expected To Soar (Los Ange... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4343334 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:02:18 +0100 4343334 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4309850&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FY5B_olrn3eo%2F Even as the pharmaceutical industry hunkers down by cutting jobs, closing plants and eliminating research projects, there are areas where some growth occurs. And one example appears to be construction on plants and research centers across North America, at least according to research compiled by Industrial Info Resources, a research firm that tracks construction projects. In a recent report, IIR talled 85 facilities that were completed last year by drug and device makers, biotechs, diagnostics companies and government-backed research centers, including incubators. These projects represented a potential total investment value of $7.1 billion, which includes both original construction costs and possible future phases that are already planned or under consideration. This is up from the 76 th... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4309850 Tue, 04 Jan 2011 15:02:59 +0100 4309850 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4309851&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FOeVXELaM3qA%2F Yet another big drugmaker faces a job action in Europe. This time, nine unions that represent Sanofi-Aventis workers in France plan to strike tomorrow over plans to eliminate more than 900 jobs. “The reality is that these job cuts are part of a vast 2 billion-euro savings plan that group management wants to achieve by 2013. All the group’s business are affected,” the unions said in a statement. A Sanofi spokesman tells Reuters the drugmaker had not announced any new job cuts since unveiling a reorganisation of its French commercial division last month, which would lead to 575 out of 2,800 jobs that will be cut by the end of this year. The unions say they tallied 916 jobs by adding 575 plus 260 unoccupied posts and 81 staffers who are expected to change roles. The unions a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4309851 Tue, 04 Jan 2011 13:35:36 +0100 4309851 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4302106&cid=t_115614_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F12%2Fformer-nih-director-spins-trhough.html ConclusionsSo the revolving door just keeps spinning, its revolutions suggesting how closely tied together big government and big corporations have become in what is now the health care business.  Whatever the motivations of Doctors Zerhouni, von Eschenbach, and Geberding were, the message to every person in a leadership position in health care in the US government has to still be: you too can earn big corporate compensation soon after you leave here.  Who knows how much that siren song will lead current government leaders to avoid antagonizing the leaders of big health care corporations during their government "service."  That is, of course, not what we want them to be thinking about if government agencies ae to serve the people, not the CEOs of big corporati... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4302106 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 21:15:00 +0100 4302106 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4300524&cid=t_115614_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F12%2Fformer-nih-director-spins-trhough.html ConclusionsSo the revolving door just keeps spinning, its revolutions suggesting how closely tied together big government and big corporations have become in what is now the health care business.  Whatever the motivations of Doctors Zerhouni, von Eschenbach, and Geberding were, the message to every person in a leadership position in health care in the US government has to still be: you too can earn big corporate compensation soon after you leave here.  Who knows how much that siren song will lead current government leaders to avoid antagonizing the leaders of big health care corporations during their government "service."  That is, of course, not what we want them to be thinking about if government agencies ae to serve the people, not the CEOs of big corporati... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4300524 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 21:15:00 +0100 4300524 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4277957&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FcvdSbe-ci1k%2F At a time when tens of thousands of industry jobs are being eliminated, union membership can offer a different perspective. And so more than 200 workers at GlaxoSmithKline’s consumer healthcare division in Gloucester will vote tomorrow on whether they should begin a strike. What’s the beef? A 0 - that is a zero - percent pay hike offered by the drugmaker. The Unite union, which represents engineers, administrators, analysts and warehouse workers, say the employees were given a “measly” 1.2 per cent pay increase last year. Although talks have been under way since June, Unite says GSK refuses to budge. We have asked Glaxo for comment, but a spokeswoman says there will be no comment and will update you accordingly. Balloting closes next month, by the way. “It is ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4277957 Tue, 21 Dec 2010 16:09:56 +0100 4277957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4272605&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FwSjIqriGttE%2F Welcome to the working week, although this will be a shortened one due to the pending holiday. Nonetheless, the usual routine is in full swing, which means we are brewing the mandatory cup of stimulation and poking about for interesting items. Let us know if you hear of anything. Meanwhile, here are a few tidbits. Hope your day goes well… Gilead To Buy Arresto Biosciences For $225M (Bloomberg News) Gunmen Raid Distribution Facility But Are Apprehended (Securing Pharma) Genzyme To Push Argument For Campath Value (Reuters) Novartis To Invest $500M In Russia And Build Plant (Bloomberg News) Sanofi-Aventis And Avila Sign Cancer Drug Deal (Reuters) Claris Promises To Resolve FDA Problems Soon (MoneyControl) Phylogica And Pfizer Sign Vaccines Deal (Sydney Morning Herald) Another Prempro Tr... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4272605 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 12:58:33 +0100 4272605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266262&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FsDzjB1vBQ8I%2F Now that the FDA has refused to approve its new Brilinta bloodthinner, the AstraZeneca team may regret choosing that name. In any event, the agency issued a so-called complete response letter and wants more analysis of a key clinical study, although there was no request for addtional trials as a prerequisite for possible approval (see the statement). The move - which hits AstraZeneca just as patents are due to expire on such best sellers as the Nexium heartburn pill and Seroquel schizphrenia treatment - is a bit of a shocker to Wall Street, given that Brilinta was already approved in Europe and, moreover, an FDA advisory panel last summer voted 7-to-1 to recommend marketing approval (back story). In fact, FDA approval had already been delayed since last September, suggesting a favorable r... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266262 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 13:52:51 +0100 4266262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266264&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FSZ-Te091wg0%2F And so another working week draws to a close, which means the time has come to daydream, just a little, about our weekend plans - a brisk walk with the official Pharmalot mascots, spending time with our short people and taking a nap or two. What about you? Will you brave the shopping crowds? Curl up with your favorite e-book reader? Connect with a special person? Whatever you do, we hope you have a pleasant time. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits to jumpstart the day. Stay in touch…. Merck Extends Deadline For Closing Organon Dutch Facilities (Reuters) Your Pharmaceutical Cargo Theft Update (Securing Pharma) Celgene Raises Revlimid Price To $85K A Year (Dow Jones) FDA Considers Generic User Fees (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) Sanofi-Aventis And Merck KGgA Sign Cancer Drug Deal (Bloomberg N... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266264 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 12:44:28 +0100 4266264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4245601&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FZ1OgNCUw80U%2F Jeff Kinder, the freshly departed Pfizer ceo, may have been criticized for failing to buy smaller companies, but a recent tally shows Pfizer has, so far, this year been the biggest industry dealmaker, at least when it comes to individual products, according to Life Science Analytics. Pfizer struck 51 deals as October, inching past Sanofi-Aventis at 50 and Novartis at 49. Roche struck 46, Glaxo has done 44 and Bayer inked 31 deals. Rounding out the list was Teva at 30, AstraZeneca with 25, Abbott at 20 and Lilly with 18. So what kind of deals? There were acquisitions; co-development deals; collaborations; co-marketing, co-promotion and commercialization; distribution and cross-distribution; cross licensing; development; licensing; manufacturing; supply agreements and sub-licensing. The sho... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4245601 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 14:24:29 +0100 4245601 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4241952&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FM-_2VCTpo0I%2F Good morning, everyone. Our apologies for the late start but we are having technical difficulties and attempting to resolve them. Nonetheless, we are endeavoring to provide you with the usual flow of interesting items. Here are a few to get us all started. We hope your day goes well. As for us, we are going to down a much-needed cup of stimulation. Stay in touch… Merck Drops Fast-Acting Claim For Allergy Pill (Dow Jones) US Moves Toward Drug Development Center (Reuters) Orphan Drug Discounts Ended For Kids Hospitals (New York Times) Cephalon Buys Rights To Stem Cell Therapies (Bloomberg News) Caraco Pharma Considers Going Private (Detroit News) China To Prices On Some Drugs By 19 Percent (PharmaTimes) Sanofi-Aventis Signs Licensing Deal For HIV Drug (Montreal Gazette) (Source: Pharma... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4241952 Wed, 08 Dec 2010 13:54:02 +0100 4241952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4238145&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FGuLviF9y5LA%2F In a surprise move, the FDA’s Endocrinologic and Metabolic Advisory committee voted 13-to-7 to recommend that Orexigen Therapeutics’ Contrave diet pill be allowed on the market. If the agency follows the advice, which is not guaranteed, Contrave would become the first new prescription diet drug to reach US consumers since 1999, when the FDA approved Roche’s Xenical. The panel, however, also voted 11-to-8 that additional studies are needed to ascertain cardiovascular risks. Nonetheless, the recommendation has the potential to drastically change the weight-loss market and, perhaps, put a dent in the burgeoning population of obese people, which has become a public health issue. Despite the clamoring for new diet tools, the same FDA panel earlier this year bounced two other n... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4238145 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 21:49:42 +0100 4238145 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4238147&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FJub8q6MBpJY%2F There may not be many physicians running big drugmakers (lawyers seem to be more popular choices), but the pharmaceutical industry does employ oodles of people with medical degrees. But what makes some more likely to become high-ranking managers? An ability to work efficiently in the lab? Publish lots of studies? A keen knowledge of office politics? How about bedside manner? To find out, Amrop Battalia Winston, an executive search firm, assessed 39 docs and gauged 23 personality traits and motivational factors that may have helped some rise to the top. Among those queried were docs in clinical research and medical affairs and work as senior director; executive director; assistant vp; associate vp; therapeutic head or chief medical officer. And they worked for Boehringer-Ingelheim; Bristol-... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4238147 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 15:44:38 +0100 4238147 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4238149&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FA1QbLY7H6xo%2F Despite an ongoing shortage of a much-needed med for Fabry’s disease, the National Institutes of Health has denied a bid by three patients to obtain a license that would allow them to produce a new treatment. The move comes as Genzyme, which makes Fabrazyme, continues to struggle with supplies after more than a year of severe manufacturing problems. The patients petitioned the US Department of Health and Human Services last summer to override the use patents held by Genzyme on its med, which is the only such treatment currently available for a rare, inherited disorder that causes kidney and heart problems (back story). Genzyme, you may recall, recently agreed to pay $175 million as part of a consent decree for its manufacturing gaffes, including viral contamination, and is now the su... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4238149 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 14:48:04 +0100 4238149 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4238151&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F4wnU_lg3IY0%2F Rise and shine, everyone. Another brand new day is on the way and, once again, we are hustling the short people off to their various school houses. This calls, of course, for a cup of stimulation. So please join us, or grab a bottle of water if you prefer. Meanwhile, here are a few tidbits to get us all started. Have a great one and drop us a line if you hear anything interesting… Sanofi Unwilling To Meet Genzyme Demands (Bloomberg News) Enzon Pharma Cuts Workforce By 26 Percent (Reuters) Johnson & Johnson Faces Thousands Of Levaquin Lawsuits (Minneapolis Star-Tribune) Kindler Departure Sparked By Succession Issue? (Bloomberg News) Glaxo Buys Chinese Drugmaker For $70M (Reuters) Chris Viehbacher Is Named New PhRMA Chief (The Hill) Medicaid Drugs Are Going To Drug Dealers (Associ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4238151 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 12:56:32 +0100 4238151 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4233423&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F_l5xPun2CM0%2F If you thought that bundle of classified cables oozing from WikiLeaks was confined to diplomatic foibles and heads of state, but had little to offer about the pharmaceutical world, well, guess what? One cable lists overseas pharma facilities that are considered vital to US national security. How so? Losing these facilities “could critically impact the public health, economic security, and/or national and homeland security of the United States,” according to the Feb. 18, 2009, cable from the US Secretary of State to all diplomatic posts overseas (read it here). The list was part of an effort to catalog critical infrastructure and key resources as part of the National Infrastructure Protection Plan. The cable mentions plants that produce insulin and vaccines to combat small pox, ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4233423 Mon, 06 Dec 2010 13:07:28 +0100 4233423 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4214486&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FytaYMSbbu9s%2F Rise and shine, everyone. Another day is on the way. And here on the busy Pharmalot corporate campus, we have already fed the official mascots, hustled one of the short people off to the local school house and brewed a cup of stimulation. What next? Documents to read, phone calls to return and the never-ending search for new ideas. While we get started, here are some tidbits to help you jumpstart your own routine. Have a good one and stay in touch… More Clinical Trials Are Being Held In India (The Times of India) BRIC CRO’s Are Getting More Business (Outsourcing Pharma) UK ‘Patent Box’ Will Create New Jobs (Pharma Times) AstraZeneca Cancer Drug Linked To Toxicity (Wall Street Journal) Mom Vows Fight Against Sanofi Despite Setback (News & Star) The Generic Threa... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4214486 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 12:58:50 +0100 4214486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4183538&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FyBd3vLakqQw%2F First, some drugmakers caught the transparency bug. Now, a big regulator has been infected. As of next week, the European Medicines Agency will provide clinical trial data on request for every drug that has been reviewed, and hopes to publish reports on its web site within five years, according to Bloomberg News. The move came in response to a long-standing request from researchers at the Nordic Cochrane Centre for trial reports on three obesity drugs - Roche’s Xenical, Abbott Lab’s Meridia and Sanofi-Aventis’ Acomplia - in hopes of determining whether published data corresponded with the detailed reports submitted to the EMA, the news service continues. The researchers sought the reports in June 2007, just after an FDA panel rejected Acomplia over suicide concerns (see this). Th... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4183538 Fri, 19 Nov 2010 14:01:16 +0100 4183538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4179522&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FAFtgFxHbZMM%2F Given the big patent expirations and thin pipelines, it is hardly surprising that Moody’s Investor Services has issued a report finding that the credit outlook for brand-name drugmakers remains negative for the next 12 to 18 months. More specifically, the ratings agency notes that hurdles for drug approvals remain high, given the ongoing emphasis on safety concerns; various governments are instituting austerity measures to deal with budget deficits and taking a tougher stance on drug price; mergers and acquisitions will continue to be financed with debt; and huge litigation settlements over illegal marketing underscore legal risks. And of course, these negative pressures are expected to remain through 2012, when the biggest patent expirations have largely passed. But as of June, the ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4179522 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 14:11:28 +0100 4179522 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4168212&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FLHFTjD-DAAg%2F Good morning, everyone. Nice to see you again. We hope your weekend was refreshing and relaxing. Now, of course, the routine resumes with all those meetings and deadlines. We share the feeling, of course. To cope, we are brewing the mandatory cup of stimulation. Please join us. And as always, here are a few tidbits to help you along. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch… J&J And Bayer’s Xarelto Beats Warfarin In Key Study (Bloomberg News) J&J’s Natrecor Doesn’t Kill Or Help Heart Patients (Forbes) Progress On Heart Disease Slows (The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel) Genzyme Eyed Takeda As A White Knight (Bloomberg News) Pfizer Heart Drug Helps Milder Patients (Reuters) Merck Sets Growth Strategy In India (LiveMint) Brazil Lures Big Pharma (The Financial... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4168212 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:55:18 +0100 4168212 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106055&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FWTWwWrCyCEM%2F The bitter contest over bringing a generic Lovenox bloodthinner to market took another unusual turn yesterday when Amphastar Pharmaceuticals filed a lawsuit against the FDA, charging the agency with unlawfully detaining two shipments of raw materials need to make its version of the widely used drug. The move comes three months after the FDA approved a generic developed by Momenta Pharmaceuticals, which has a marketing deal with the Sandoz generic unit of Novartis (back story). This is only the latest instance in which Amphastar has railed against the FDA’s handling of the Lovenox wars. Last year, Amphastar charged there was a conflict of interest at the agency, because Janet Woodcock, who oversees the agency’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, had an alleged working rela... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106055 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 13:32:19 +0100 4106055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4086514&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F45vXlctp9-U%2F Last week, a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found there was no evidence of increased heart risk among patients who took both proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec and the Plavix bloodthinner. The findings contradicted a warning issued last year by the FDA, which urged doctors not to combine the drugs after research suggested these heartburns med could lessen the effects of the bloodthinner and, therefore, raise the risk of a heart attack. Now, the FDA is reiterating that its warning remains intact. “We are absolutely not” changing earlier warnings to doctors and patients against taking the drugs together, Mary Ross Southworth, an FDA official who oversees cardiovascular product safety, tells The Wall Street Journal. In fact, the FDA plans to issue a re... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4086514 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 15:25:49 +0100 4086514 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4082333&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FmXWFiEHhuFU%2F Good morning, everyone. Nice to see you again. A spot of rain is falling here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, but our spirits are sunny just the same. After all, as the Morning Mayor used to say: Every brand new day should be unwrapped like a precious gift. So while you tug on the ribbon, please join us for a cup of stimulation and a bit of news. Hope your day goes well… Statins May Lower Colon Cancer Risk: Study (Associated Press) FDA Panel Rejects Dosing Restrictions On Anemia Meds (Bloomberg News) Mom Sues Abbott Over Beetles In Similac (Chicaco Business) Glaxo Strikes Alliance For Rare Disease Research (Dow Jones) Sanofi-Aventis Signs Reseach Deal With Harvard (PharmaTimes) UK Scraps Generic Substitution Plan (PharmaTimes) FDA Expands Use of Bristol-Myers’ Baraclude (Ass... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4082333 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 12:13:44 +0100 4082333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4074445&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FjXyjAatMwKk%2F Good morning, everyone. Another day is on the way, but this one brings us to the weekend. And not a moment too soon, yes? Have any special plans? Watching a ball game? Picking apples? A nap on the couch? For our part, we hope to spend time with Mrs. Pharmalot and all of the Pharmalittles, and catch up with a favorite relative, too. Whatever you do, enjoy. Meanwhile, here are a few items to help you glide through the day. Have a great weekend and see you soon… CVS Fined For Allowing Meth Ingredient Sales (Associated Press) EMA Tightens Guidelines For Impartiality On Commitees (PharmaTimes) Sanofi Says MS Drug Cuts Relapses By 31 Percent (Reuters) Reckitt Fined By UK Regulators Over Heartburn Drug Supplies (Bloomberg News) FDA May Limit Anemia Drugs For Kidney Use (Associated Press) (... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4074445 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 11:41:40 +0100 4074445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4061076&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FSflQ4feRqCg%2F Last year, the FDA urged doctors not to combine proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec and Nexium with Plavix after research suggested these heartburns med could lessen the effects of the bloodthinner and, therefore, raise the risk of a heart attack (see this). But a study published last week in The New England Journal of Medicine found the opposite result - there was no evidence of increased heart risk among patients who took both drugs compared with those taking Plavix and a placebo (see the abstract). “For the rank-and-file clinician and patient, I’d say right now I wouldn’t worry about this interaction,” Deepak Bhatt, a cardiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and lead author of the study, told The Wall Street Journal. There are, however, so... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4061076 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 12:46:51 +0100 4061076 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045395&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FB2c40euP3Jc%2F And so another work week will soon draw to a close. Not a moment too soon, yes? Any special plans in the offing? A weekend drive in the country? Think of all the apples waiting to be picked. For our part, we hope to catch up on some chores and spend time with our short people; they shouldn’t feel neglected. Whatever you do, have a nice time. Meanwhile, here are a few items of interest to help you round out the week. Enjoy… Who Kidnapped The Pharmaceutical Delivery Driver? (The Los Angeles Times) Sanofi Denies Offering Genzyme A Takeover Price Range (The Street) Abbott Pulls Meridia From Australia (Sydney Morning Herald) Targacept ADHD Drug Fails In Study (Associated Press) Novartis Unveils Pricing For New MS Drug (Dow Jones) apple pic thx to muffet on flickr creative commons (S... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045395 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 12:12:38 +0100 4045395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4018446&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FdQ15ZZGgQSU%2F Good morning, everyone. There is something of a downpour drenching the Pharmalot corporate campus, nonetheless, our spirits remain as sunny as ever. We hope you feel the same. Meanwhile, the time has come to indulge in another cup of stimulation. So please join us we ready ourselves for another day. Hope yours is a good one and catch you soon… Sanofi-Aventis & Covance Ink $2.2B, 10-Year Deal (Bloomberg News) Big Jump In Brand-Name Meds For Seniors In 2011: Study (The Hill) The Trials And Tribulations Of Malaria Vaccine Trials (Reuters) Pfizer Arthritis Drug Worked Too Well (Bloomberg News) Merck and AVEO End Collaboration On Lung Cancer Drug (Boston Globe) Most NIH-Registered Trials Use Sites Outside No. America (OutsourcingPharma) MediGene Cuts Workforce In Half (PharmaTimes) B... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4018446 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:53:50 +0100 4018446 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4013546&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FZbkIW8inHAo%2F The US Supreme Court agreed to hear an appeal by drugmakers seeking to block thousands of public hospitals and community health clinics from suing for violations of a federal program that lets them buy medicines at a discount, according to reports (here and here). The justices agreed to review to an appeal by Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Bayer, GlaxoSmithKline, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck and Sanofi-Aventis, among others, which are challenging a lower court ruling permitting a suit against the drugmakers filed by the California county of Santa Clara. That suit was filed the lawsuit in 2005 for alleged overcharges at its medical facilities from 2001 to 2005. The dispute centers on the rights of 14,500 health providers that spend about $4 billion a year on outpatient drugs. A 2006 government report ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4013546 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 22:27:57 +0100 4013546 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4003438&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FVIyzP8yQEzA%2F Welcome back, everyone. We hope your weekend was restful and rejuvenating. Now, of course, the routine has returned. Meetings and deadlines, as usual, beckon. What better way to prepare than with a cup of stimulation? So please join us as we indulge. Meanwhile, here are a few items to help you get started. Hope your day goes well and stay in touch… AstraZeneca Prostate Cancer Drug Fails Phase III (TheStreet) Pfizer Plans More Partnerships In Asia (OutsourcingPharma) Sanofi Keeps Genzyme Bid Steady, For Now (Reuters) Merck To Hire 300 At No. Carolina Vaccine Plant (The Herald Sun) Wyeth’s Genetically Modified Baby Formula Causes Protest (Sydney Morning Herald) European Rx Sales To Slow Due To Cost-Cutting (PharmaTimes) Actelion Drug For Brain Hemorrhage Fails In Study (Bloomberg... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4003438 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 11:51:00 +0100 4003438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3999293&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FVyEwh-7JadE%2F The nation’s medicine chest mayl be the moniker for the Garden State, but it’s no secret the pharmaceutical industry in New Jersey is shedding a tremendous number of jobs. And with ballooning deficits making it difficult for the state to offer any help, the cupboard is starting to look bare (see here). So the US Department of Labor is stepping in with a $3.6 million grant designed to assist 960 laid off workers. The grant will be administered by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, which wants to use the funds to leverage the out-of-work pharma talent to “create a world-class bioscience cluster” and keep those folks from moving elsewhere. As part of the plan, the state will provide workers with access to ‘dislocated worker services,&#8... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3999293 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 12:37:46 +0100 3999293 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3999295&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FTCrv077MheI%2F And so the end of another work week is near. Which means the time has come to plan your weekend activities. Anything special in the offing? How about picking apples? Or a walk in the park? We plan to watch one of the short people on the football field and catch up on some reading. Meanwhile, another day awaits. So here are a few items to help you along. And whatever you do this weekend, have a great time… Amgen And J&J Recall Some Anemia Meds (Reuters) EMA Rejects Merck KGaA’s MS Pill (Bloomberg News) Alnylam To Cut Up To 30 Percent Of Workforce (Associated Press) Sanofi-Aventis Signs Deal With Dana Farber Cancer Institute (PharmaTimes) Glaxo’s Advair Follow-Up Shows Promise In Tests (Reuters) Xanodyne Pharma Plans Staff Cuts (The Cincinnati Enquirer) EU Finds No Lin... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3999295 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 11:53:50 +0100 3999295 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3999296&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fj1je8kub4nc%2F And the job cuts just keep on coming. Less than two years after slashing 10 percent of its workforce, Bristol-Myers Squibb now plans to eliminate 3 percent of its headcount in the next few months, according to an email that Bristol-Myers ceo Lamberto Andreotti wrote to employees this morning. “We’ve initiated a streamlining project,” a spokeswoman confirms, who says the reduction is not targeted at any one area or country. “This is something we’ve just begun undertaking. It’s a global initiative.” The drugmaker employs about 28,000 currrently, which means 840 or so jobs will go. This is only the latest in an ongoing series of cutbacks by major drugmakers. In the past year, Merck, Pfizer, Sanofi-Aventis, Eli Lilly and Abbott Laboratories have all a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3999296 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 21:03:54 +0100 3999296 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3987236&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FcB0AB5jloI4%2F Welcome back, everyone. We hope you had a pleasant weekend and feel refreshed. Now, of course, the routine resumes as meetings and deadlines approach. To steel ourselves, we are preparing the mandatory cup of simulation. So please join us as we indulge and scan the news of the world. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch… Bristol-Myers And Astra Tout Diabetes Study Results (Dow Jones) Roche’s Avastin Fails In Late-State Colon Cancer Study (Bloomberg News) India May Separate Approvals From Patent Status (LiveMint) Drugmakers Protest New Prices In Greece (PharmaTimes) Some African Nations Side With India Over Generics Debate (Economic Times) Genentech Exec Looks Ahead To Rockefeller University (Nature) Novartis Pulls European Application For Blood Pressure Pill (PharmaTime... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3987236 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 11:35:40 +0100 3987236 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3973111&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FsNp0T-pISJQ%2F Since working dad best describes our place in the world, we do not pretend to know what all working moms want from their employers. So we dutifully glanced at Working Mother magazine to learn that several drugmakers - 11, in fact - made the latest list of the 100 best employers in the land. Which ones? Abbott Labs, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly, Genentech, Johnson & Johnson, Merck, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer and Sanofi-Aventis. A notable exception is Novartis, which made the 2009 list (see here), but has since gained some notoriety for agreeing to pay a combined $402 million to settle a pair of embarassing class-action lawsuits brought by female employees who claimed the drugmaker engaged in a pattern of discrimination involving pay, promotion and pregna... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3973111 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 15:33:26 +0100 3973111 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3965697&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FCSt3qKYXFWs%2F Top of the morning to you. We are scurrying about in hopes of depositing one of the short people at the local schoolhouse. As always, this requires fortitude and a cup of stimulation. Meanwhile, we would like to remind you that we will host a webinar today (see this) with former US Attorney Mike Loucks about brand promotion compliance. And now, let the day begin. Have a good one, everyone… Forest Labs Responds To FDA For COPD Drug (Pharma Times) Pfizer Sees A Turnaround For Its Labs (Reuters) Sanofi May Boost Genzyme Bid As Lab Unit Is Sold (Bloomberg News) Counterfeit Drug Tally Is Hard To Swallow (Wall Street Journal) Gilead Quad Pills Supresses HIV At 48 Weeks (Reuters) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3965697 Tue, 14 Sep 2010 11:49:31 +0100 3965697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3958061&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=38374&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FePharmaSummit%2F%7E3%2FeTiSl1C8pdI%2Ftop-10-reasons-you-should-join-us-for.html This October in Princeton, New Jersey, we hope you’ll join us for the Multi Channel Pharma Marketing Event. Why? Here are the Top 10 reasons:1. Get updates and insight into FDA promotional guidance from AstraZeneca, Sanofi-Aventis, and Bristol-Myers Squibb2. Identify the next big idea and follow it from concept to execution3. Debate the optimal channel mix for your market segment4. Bring the customer to you with live physician and patient focused break out groups5. Participate in facilitated roundtable discussion groups based on your interest in consumer, HCP or managed care marketing6. Learn how to spot new insights and opportunities by collaborating across functional teams7. Gather predictive consumer insight to optimize your cross-channel media plan8. Maximize your experience with spe... ePharma Summit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3958061 Fri, 10 Sep 2010 13:00:00 +0100 3958061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3925091&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FCi7SP87eU1o%2F Nothing like a temperature reading to assess a situation, and Genzyme ceo Henri Termeer confronts an inevitable takeover by Sanofi-Aventis, at least according to a survey of 129 buy-side managers conducted by ISI Group biotech analyst Mark Schoenebaum. The upshot: 80.2 percent believe Sanofi will buy Genzyme and 75.7 percent believe no other bidder will emerge. But what will Sanofi have to pay? Instead of the $69 offer by the big drugmaker (look here), buysiders look for a purchase price of $74 to $77 a share. For his part, Termeer tells The Boston Globe that a sale appears increasingly possible, after all. “This is not a fixer-upper, this is beachfront property,” says Termeer, who only two days earlier rejected a deal. “It’s good to have this out in the open, to ha... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3925091 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 12:27:40 +0100 3925091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3925093&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F2_AacIKJExc%2F Hello, everyone. Nice to see you again as another busy day lies in store. We have numerous housekeeping matters to mind and so we are brewing multiple cups of stimulation in order to cope. Please join us - or grab a bottle of water, if you prefer - as we dig in. Meanwhile, here is the news of the world. Have a great day and, again, please remember to send interesting tidbits our way… Sanofi Board Differs On Genzyme (The Wall Street Journal) Pfizer Buying FoldRx (Associated Press) AstraZeneca Given More Time To Settle 6,000 Seroquel Suits (Bloomberg News) Here Are 21 Drugs Facing FDA Approval Decisions (TheStreet) Merck And Adcock Expand African Distribution Deal (Reuters) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3925093 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 11:51:35 +0100 3925093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3915291&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FLO4mISQLMq8%2F After weeks of leaks, Sanofi-Aventis has made public its offer to buy up Genzyme by going directly to shareholders of the beleaguered biotech. The $18.5 billion, all-cash deal comes after Sanofi ceo Christopher Viehbacher claims he has been stonewalled by Genzyme chairman and ceo Henri Termeer. The $69-a-share offer, however, is likely to go higher, given that analysts and investors have been buzzing for awhile that a richer price is probably necessary. By publicizing the offer - and couching it in terms that portray Termeer as obstructionist - Viehbacher is pursuing an approach known on Wall Street as a bear hug, in that it is designed to force the party who unwillingly receives a takeover to enter negotiations. Termeer, of course, has been under siege for the past year due to manufacturi... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3915291 Sun, 29 Aug 2010 18:22:51 +0100 3915291 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3907784&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FafNQrW4XcCs%2F This is hardly surprising. A federal judge late yesterday refused to issue a preliminary injunction to block Sandoz and Momenta Pharmaceutical from proceeding with sales of their generic Lovenox bloodthinner, which was recently approved by the FDA (see this). Sanofi-Aventis, which sells the $4 billion treatment, quickly filed a lawsuit, claiming the FDA acted arbitrarily and capriciously, because the generic is not exactly the same as its own med, and that the move would cause it irreparable harm (look here). But US District Court Judge Emmet Sullivan ruled the FDA had not acted inappropriately. “Just because the FDA…reached a conclusion at odds with the position advanced by Sanofi does not mean that the FDA’s decision was arbitrary and capricious,” he wrote in a 33... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3907784 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:59:09 +0100 3907784 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3899638&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F8iE8rWOFbhk%2F Hello, everyone, how are you today? Unfortunately, it is another cloudy morning in New England, where we are visiting to speak at the American Chemical Society annual gathering (please look here). Nonetheless, our spirits are sunny and we are keeping as busy as ever. So please join us for a cup of stimulation as we scan the news of the world. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch… Sanofi-Aventis CEO And His Challenges (The Financial Times) Roche Inks Deal With Aileron For Stapled Peptides (The New York Times) Another 115 Pfizer Workers To Lose Their Jobs (The Times Herald-Record) Novo Nordisk To Test Victoza To Fight Obesity (Dow Jones) UK’s NICE Rejects Avastin Again (PharmaTimes) Pfizer’s Sutent Fails To Meet Goal In Lung Study (Bloomberg News) Merck Foundation A... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3899638 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:37:31 +0100 3899638 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3896098&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FPyHmKCZ3g8s%2F Hello, everyone. Nice to see you again. As promised, we have returned. We trust you had a pleasant and productive week while we were away. And we want to say thanks for the nice send-off notes so many of you posted. Much appreciated. As always, though, the time has now come to reach for that favored cup of stimulation as we gear up for another week. Here goes… Glaxo Starts Final Clinical Trials For Shingles Vaccine (Reuters) Roche Buys Imaging Company For $100 Million (SwissInfo) Pfizer Tries To Remediate Former Upjohn Site (North Haven Citizen) Archimedes Pharma Sets Up Shop (The Star-Ledger of NJ) Genzyme Shareholder Sues To Block Deal That Hasn’t Happened (Boston Globe) Taiwan Seeks To Remove Non-Tariff Barriers To China (Focus Taiwan) Jailed Psychiatrist Pleads Guilty Over ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3896098 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:34:15 +0100 3896098 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3862193&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fmn94xwkWAbU%2F Hello, everyone, nice to see you again. There is a cool and welcome breeze wafting across the Pharmalot corporate campus this morning. And so what better way to greet such inviting weather than with a steaming cup of stimulation? Please join us. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits from around your world. We hope your day is productive and pleasant, and do stay in touch… Indian Supplier Of Gelatin Capsules To Double Output (Bloomberg News) Former Sirtris Execs Sell Resveratol Anti-Aging Supplement Online (Xconomy) Medco And CVS Are Giving A Gene Test To Millions (Bloomberg News) Antibiotic Use Rises After Part D (MedPage Today) New Superbug From India Causes Alarm In The UK (PharmaTimes) FDA Panel Backs Epilepsy Drug From Glaxo And Valeant (Reuters) Sanofi And Genzyme In A Game Of Chicke... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3862193 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 12:07:49 +0100 3862193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3858382&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F80EA963DpmU%2F Now that the World Health Organization has officially declared that the swine flu pandemic is over (see this), the agency has finally released the names of the scientific advisors who helped with pandemic decisions and their declared conflicts of interest, such as paid work for drugmakers. The move comes four months after the WHO denied the pharmaceutical industry had undue influence over its decisions about the extent of the pandemic and two months after the Council of Europe issued a report harshly criticizing the agency’s lack of transparency around the handling of the swine flu pandemic (back story here and here). For its part, the WHO called the accusations “conspiracy theories,” but refused to release the conflict of interest forms filed by the 16 members of its eme... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3858382 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:45:32 +0100 3858382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3858383&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FOMw0S5fJrXc%2F Top of the morning to you. And a sunny one it is. Hope your day is getting off to a good start. As for us, we have the usual laundry list of meetings and deadlines, which calls for a cup of stimulation or three. So please join us as we brace for day ahead. And of course, drop us a line if you hear something interesting. We always enjoy a bit of insight. Meanwhile, have a great day… Gilead May Get FDA Warning Letter (San Francisco Business Journal) Genzyme Will Need An Extra Year To Fix Manufacturing Woes (Bloomberg News) Lilly To Lay Off 500 More Employees (Indianapolis Star) Merck Prostate Cancer Merits More Attention: Study (Bloomberg News) Sanofi Strikes Personalized Medicine Deal With Scripps (PharmaTimes) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3858383 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:09:41 +0100 3858383 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3831556&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F7PdyP6SApPE%2F Eight months after their counterparts in Europe told doctors to stop prescribing the Meridia diet pill, the FDA has finally scheduled an advisory committee meeting to review safety risks. A spokesman for Abbott Labs, which sells the drug, confirmed the Endocrinologic and Metabolic Drugs advisory committee will review Meridia on Sept. 15, a day before Arena Pharmaceuticals’ lorcaserin is reviewed. The move comes in the wake of a trial known as SCOUT, which emerged last November and showed an increased risk of serious, non-fatal cardiovascular events, such as stroke or heart attack, when comparing the drug with a placebo among nearly 10,000 patients. The trial was designed to assess the impact of weight loss on cardiovascular problems in a large group of overweight people taking the pi... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3831556 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 20:00:39 +0100 3831556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3831561&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FxXce5vGUKuo%2F And so another work week will soon draw to a close. And not a moment too soon. There is much tidying up to do around the Pharmalot corporate campus. Moreover, we look forward to a respite in order to catch up on some reading and tend to the shortest of short people. What about you? Any special plans? Gearing up for vacation, perhaps? Whatever you do, enjoy. And see you soon… Cypress Bioscience Rejects Ramius Buyout Offer (Reuters) Glaxo Signs Dry Powder Deal With Vecture (PharmaTimes) Teva Version Of Lovenox Due Shortly (Reuters) ACIP Says CSL Flu Shot For Kids To Be Avoided (Associated Press) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3831561 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 12:07:31 +0100 3831561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3827349&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FxlR5KWqXo1w%2F Hello, everyone. How are you today? Hope your week is going well. We have had a rather busy time, but that is to be expected. And so you know what this means - time for two cups of stimulation. Feel free to join us as we gear up for another cycle of meetings and deadlines. Meanwhile, here are some snippets of activity that may interest you. Have a good one and please do stay in touch… Epilepsy Drugs Don’t Increase Suicide Risk (Bloomberg News) Merck Proteomics Research Matches Drugs To Activated Pathways (BioIt World) Gilead’s Ace Drug Developer Resigns (Xconomy) Bayer, J&J’s Xarelto Meets Study Goal (Reuters) Glaxo Find New Way To Fight Drug-Resistant Bacteria (Dow Jones) WHO Withdraws Pre-Qualification Of Sanofi Vaccine (Vaccine News Daily) Glaxo Signs Cancer... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3827349 Thu, 05 Aug 2010 11:47:17 +0100 3827349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3806022&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fs3_divSIb8U%2F Last week, the FDA issued one of those surprise product approvals by giving a thumbs up to a generic version of Lovenox, a widely used bloodthinner sold by Sanofi-Aventis, much sooner than most people expected (see here and here). The move is something of a game-changer for the pharmaceutical industry and so we spoke briefly with Jonathan Pan, a senior associate at the Scientia Advisors consulting firm, about the implications… Pharmalot: Why is this approval such an important development? Pan: Well, it’s a $4 billion product for Sanofi-Aventis. That’s one reason it’s important. The second reason is the active ingredient is an extremely complicated molecule – a macro molecular that wraps around itself – which means it’s hard to characterize and hard to manufacture. So it r... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3806022 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 14:35:24 +0100 3806022 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3806025&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FmGZFZ62NpGo%2F Hired someone new and exciting? Promoted a rising star? Finally solved that hard-to-fill spot? Share the news with us and we’ll share with it others. That’s right. Send us your announcements and we’ll find a home for them. Don’t be shy. Everyone wants to know who is coming and going, especially with all the layoffs. Despite the downsizing, there is movement. Here are some of the latest changes. Recognize anyone? And here is something that’s become a regular feature. Send us a photo and we will spotlight a different person each week. This time around, we note that Roche hired Karen Lackey as vp and head of medicinal chemistry, overseeing small molecule drug discovery in oncology, virology and inflammation. She joins Roche from GlaxoSmithKline, where she was vp for discovery medici... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3806025 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 11:57:51 +0100 3806025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3802590&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F2pcvgNkqy-U%2F Hello, everyone. A spot of rain is falling here on the Pharmalot corporate campus today. Nonetheless, our spirits remain sunny. Why? We are compelled to offer our periodic reminder, courtesy of the Morning Mayor: ‘Every brand new day should be unwrapped like a precious gift.’ So go ahead and tug on the ribbon. Meanwhile, please join us for a cup of stimulation as we scan the news of the world. Have a great day… Sanofi-Aventis To Bid $18 Billion For Genzyme (Bloomberg News) FDA Considers Changes To REMS Safeguards (Reuters) Lilly Dumps Amazon Web Services Over Legal Struggle (SearchCloudComputing) Sanofi-Aventis Lawsuit Over Zimulti Is Reinstated (Bloomberg News) Fewer ABPI Complaints In 2009, But More Appeals (PharmaTimes) Lilly Loses Appeal In Gemzar Patent Case (Dow Jon... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3802590 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 11:24:11 +0100 3802590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3795054&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F-ypN_wd8wVc%2F Stunned by the FDA approval of a generic version of its best-selling Lovenox blood thinner, Sanofi-Aventis has filed a lawsuit in federal court, charging the agency with exceeding its authority, and acted arbitrarily and capriciously in granting Momenta Pharmaceuticals the right to market a drug (see background here). In arguing its case, Sanofi claims the FDA is allowing a generic to be sold that is not similar in safety or efficacy to Lovenox, which generated $4 billion in sales last year. And so Sanofi is seeking a temporary restraining order to force the FDA to withdraw approval, which would prevent Momenta and its partner, the Sandoz generic unit of Novartis, from moving forward. Sanofi has moved aggressively before to thwart generic Lovenox, filing a citizen’s petition with the... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3795054 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:05:42 +0100 3795054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3784497&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F6HqJvyNr744%2F After five-plus years of anticipation, the FDA has approved a generic version of Lovenox, a $4 billion blood thinner sold by Sanofi-Aventis. The approval comes after a three-way race between Momenta Pharmaceutical, which received the agency endorsement, and two others - Amphastar Pharmaceuticals and Teva Pharmaceutical. There is no word on approval for the rival meds (here is the FDA statement). In a word, this is really about biologics and the implications are enormous. “Lovenox is technically not a biologic, yet functionally and effectively it is,” writes Sanford Bernstein analyst Tim Anderson in an investor note. “Many in industry have felt that if FDA ultimately approves generic versions of Lovenox and it makes those generics fully substitutable - which it just has - ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3784497 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 20:53:22 +0100 3784497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3761630&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FKQq7Yvuph-s%2F And so another working week will soon draw to a close. And what a week it was. How about those Avandia developments? Well, time to think of other endeavors. Perhaps a dip in the pool or a day at the beach? A night at the movies (a day at the races?) As for us, we plan to spend time with one or two short people and catch up on some rest. Whatever you do, we hope you enjoy yourself. Meanwhile, join us for a cup of stimulation and survive the day. See you soon… Toxicology Sinks Vernalis, Biogen’s Parkinson’s Drug (Reuters) UK’s NICE OKs Sanofi’s Multaq Heart Drug (Bloomberg News) Novartis Strikes Tentative Deal To Settle Zelnorm Lawsuits (Dow Jones) FDA Reviewers Question Avastin Breast Cancer Data (Reuters) Merck Ends Development Of HIV Drug (AIDSMeds) Adolor Cu... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3761630 Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:59:28 +0100 3761630 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3758107&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FgCh5nNvNUEk%2F This is not a good news day for pharmaceutical industry employees. First, Sanofi-Aventis acknowledges downsizing that will affect hundreds of workers. Johnson & Johnson’s Tylenol recall scandal is claiming some 300 positions at its McNeil Consumer Healthcare unit. And now, Eli Lilly is letting go 340 IT personnel as part of a reorganization announced last fall to trim 5,500 jobs. Actually, Lilly has already cut 140 jobs through retirements, resignations and an earlier round of layoffs, The Indianapolis Star writes. Of course, do the math and this means 200 more IT folks are going to be out of work soon -115 of those cuts will take place this month. Lilly employs about 1,250 people in IT. The Lilly cost-cutting is designed to save about $1 billion since huge gobs of revenue will ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3758107 Thu, 15 Jul 2010 21:26:37 +0100 3758107 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3754069&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fj7rdffYWCMs%2F An ongoing reorganization that began about a year ago is now claiming several hundred workers at a plant in Great Valley, Pennsylvania, where laboratory and regulatory affairs employees are staffed, but their work is being transferred elsewhere. About 400 employees and 200 contract workers will be affected by the shift, although a clinical trial supply group will remain. At the same time, a pilot plant in Bridgewater, New Jersey, which is home to the drugmaker’s US headquarters, will be closed. About 25 people work at the plant. A Sanofi spokeswoman confirmed the moves, but says it remains unclear how many jobs will be eliminated or how many employees will have an opportunity to transfer to other locations. She would not comment on information that about 50 chemists also based in Bri... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3754069 Thu, 15 Jul 2010 09:25:10 +0100 3754069 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3750275&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FQ3eBZlyjWkI%2F The California Supreme Court has overturned a lower court decision that dismissed a price-fixing lawsuit brought by a group of pharmacies. They had charged the largest drugmakers agreed to set artificially high prices, and acted in concert to restrain reimportation of their lower-priced foreign drugs into the US and restrict price competition from generics. As a result, the drugmakers were able to maintain prices 50 to 400 percent higher than for the same drugs sold outside the US. The drugmakers - which included Abbott Labs; AstraZeneca; Novartis; Allergan; Boehringer Ingelheim; Eli Lilly; Johnson & Johnson; Janssen Pharmaceutica; Ortho McNeil; Ortho Biotech; GlaxoSmithKline; Pfizer; Hoffman-LaRoche; Aventis Pharmaceuticals; Amgen; Purdue Pharma; Merck; Bristol-Myers-Squibb, and Wyeth - a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3750275 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 12:03:55 +0100 3750275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746991&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=38374&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FePharmaSummit%2F%7E3%2FuhijOLk28WE%2Fepharma-summit-implementing-new-and.html ePharma Summit 2010 took place this past February in Philadelphia. If you were unable to make it, we will now be presenting a weekly video series featuring all of the sessions from our event. This week we will continue with presentation from Dennis Urbaniak, VP Customer Channels & Innovation, sanofi-aventis. The session is "Implementing New and Innovative Communication Channels to Deliver Relevant Customer Messaging."Click here to watch the video. The video is under the "video" portion of the interactive player on the ePharma Summit webpage. (Source: ePharma Summit) ePharma Summit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746991 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:22:00 +0100 3746991 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746989&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FWwA5LUh4guc%2F Welcome back. We hope you had a refreshing weekend and feel recharged. Now, of course, the routine returns with those meetings and deadlines. As you might expect, we are brewing the mandatory cup of stimulation. Please join us as we indulge and scan the news of the world. Hope your day goes well and do stay in touch… Russia Approves Merck KGgA’s MS Pill (Reuters) Sanofi May Sell EU Research Sites To Covance (OutsourcingPharma) J&J Sued Over Pediatric OTC Med Recalls (Reuters) Another Canadian Province Cuts Generic Prices (PharmaTimes) FDA To Review First Of Three New Diet Pills (Associated Press) Sigma Pharma Wants Better Deal From Aspen (International Business Times) Abbott Warns Against Further Healthcare Cuts (Irish Examiner) Pfizer Works To Clean Contaminants From Mich... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746989 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:09:04 +0100 3746989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3740825&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F7g1p0YcWa0c%2F Some companies will overwhelm you with documents during litigation. Others destroy them. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, one of India’s large generic drugmakers, is in that second category. We know because the company was sanctioned by a federal judge for destroying more than a year’s worth of potential evidence that could have factored into patent litigation with Abbott Laboratories and Sanofi-Aventis over plans to introduce a generic version of a blood pressure med known as Tarka. In fact, Glenmark produced just three e-mails in response to discovery requests for an entire year’s worth of material and allegedly engaged in a “systematic document destruction policy,” in which documents and e-mails were retained on company servers for only one month. The ruling, whic... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3740825 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 12:46:39 +0100 3740825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3737291&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FCxQV4dR3-Rw%2F Who says there is only depressing news out there? On the same day that Merck announces plans to close a Cambridge, Ma., R&D facility as part of an ongoing reorganization to save billions of dollars, Sanofi-Aventis is gearing up to hire some 300 people for a new cancer division, The Boston Globe writes. Sanofi already has nearly 400 workers in Massachusetts, including 160 in Cambridge, largely through its 2008 acquisition of Acambis, a vaccine maker based in England. Recently, though, the drugmaker began posting dozens of jobs related to the new division headquarters on its website, including for laboratory research, clinical trials, and marketing, the paper notes. Despite the move by Merck, the Sanofi hiring underscores how the Boston area remains a desirable spot for drugmakers and e... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3737291 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 20:29:59 +0100 3737291 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726580&cid=t_115614_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fsanofi-funded-society-of-hospital.html Here is another case to raise questions about the true goal of some medical societies.  As reported by Alicia Mundy in the Wall Street Journal in late June, A medical researcher and two medical groups with financial ties to Sanofi-Aventis SA have asked federal regulators to hold off on approving generic forms of a Sanofi blood-thinner....Citing potential patient safety issues, the head of the Society of Hospital Medicine and a medical researcher at Duke University last month sent letters to the Food and Drug Administration contending that Lovenox is too complex for any generic maker to copy fully.Earlier this year, another Sanofi-sponsored medical group, the North American Thrombosis Forum, sent two letters in favor of Sanofi's position opposing generic Lovenox. None of the letters me... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726580 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 20:22:00 +0100 3726580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3721963&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FvbID8-KEIdg%2F And so another working week will soon draw to a close. Although this will be a long holiday weekend here in the states. Have anything special planned? So many choices, yes? Perhaps a drive in the country or a day at the beach is in order. As for us, we expect to attend a backyard soiree or two, tune up the treadmill, catch up on some reading and quaffe a beverage with Mrs. Pharmalot. Whatever you do, have a great time and stay safe. See you soon… Lilly To Acquire Alnara Pharmaceuticals (see statement) Sanofi-Aventis Plans A Big US Acquisition (Bloomberg News) Ranbaxy Shifts Discovery Operations To Daiichi (Dow Jones) UK’s NICE Rejects Novartis Kidney Cancer Drug (Reuters) UK Criticized Over Glaxo Flu Vaccine Deal (The Mirror) Abbott’s Top Pharma Exec Resigns (Crain’... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3721963 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 11:54:25 +0100 3721963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3718699&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=38374&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FePharmaSummit%2F%7E3%2FQO1X5ewvc0Y%2Fsanofi-aventis-to-raise-awareness-of.html According to Medical Media & Marketing, Jeff Gordon is teaming up with sanofi-Pasteur to promote awareness of whopping cough. Television and radio ads will begin running in August, in combination with print, online and patient materials that will also be distributed.A digital effort will take place as well:Other campaign elements include a website (SoundsofPertussis.com) and Facebook page. By texting “SOUNDS” to 292929 on a mobile phone, participants will receive a text message five days later reminding them to get vaccinated. From the campaign website, visitors can check out Jeff Gordon's “favorite road tunes,” and download the songs from iTunes for $0.99 to $1.29 each. For every song downloaded (selections run the musical gamut, from U2, Sheryl Crow and Rascal Flatts, to Riha... ePharma Summit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3718699 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 15:41:00 +0100 3718699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3699703&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FqmL_7AMPh1Q%2F This may be a bad break for drugmakers. Wellpoint is using comparative effectiveness to make it more difficult for its members to use the Boniva osteoporosis drug after its own research found greater fractures, lower compliance and higher costs than other meds, according to Dow Jones. The insurer studied 26,000 members on osteo meds, comparing Boniva, which is marketed by Roche and GlaxoSmithKline with Actonel, which is sold by Sanofi-Aventis and Warner Chilcott, and Merck’s Fosamax. Although randomized clinical trials suggest the drugs should be equivalent, WellPoint data found differences. Now, WellPoint other drugs must be tried before Boniva is approved. The drug remains where on Tier 3, or non-preferred level, on the formulary. WellPoint actually made the change last year, Dow J... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3699703 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 13:57:57 +0100 3699703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3699708&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FQdlbcRhrvF8%2F And so another work week will soon draw to a close. Not a moment to soon, eh? Well, hopefully, your week has been productive and rewarding. Now, though, it is time to consider other activities. Have any interesting weekend plans? We hope to catch up on sundry chores, a bit of reading and promenade with the official Pharmalot mascots. Whatever you do, have an enjoyable time. See you soon… Massachusetts May Repeal Ban On Gifts To Doctors (Boston Globe) Merck Wins EMA Support For Antpsychotic (Reuters) Sanofi Signs $375M Deal With Metabolex (PharmaTimes) The Qnexa Diet Pill Goes To An FDA Panel (Minynaville) Shire Gaucher Disease Drug Wins EMA Backing (Reuters) Glaxo Explores ‘Printed’ Pill Technology (Dow Jones) Novartis’ Gleevec Fails To Win UK Backing For GIST Patie... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3699708 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:32:45 +0100 3699708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3691115&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FgQcbNg-vDTc%2F Hello, everyone. Nice to see you again. Another sunny day here on the Pharmalot corporate campus and this can mean just one thing - a celebration with a deserved cup of stimulation. We invite you to join us. And as you do, please enjoy the smattering of world news accumulated below. Have a great day and stay in touch… Connecticut Subpoenas CVS Over Drug Program (Reuters) Dr. Reddy’s Expects Orders From Merck And Abbott (Economic Times) Sanofi Fights Counterfeiting In Egypt (InPharma-Technologist) Genentech Wins Another Approval For Lucentis (San Francisco Business Times) A Closer Look At The Biovail-Valeant Merger (Seeking Alpha) Piramal To Share Abbott Payout With Employees (Economic Times) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3691115 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 12:01:01 +0100 3691115 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3683873&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FfH9DI6YhaRE%2F All that talk about China and India may prompt one to overlook Russia, but the government there wants to induce multinational drugmakers to open production facilities and, at the same time, is budgeting increasing sums to grow its own domestic industry. As an example, Sanofi-Aventis just opened a plant in Vostok, which is about 217 miles southwest of Moscow, to produce human and analog insulin — medicines Russia is currently importing from Germany — as well as a new model of insulin-delivery pens, The Moscow Times reports. “We hope it will be the base for expanding into other therapeutic areas…We have a big portfolio of cardiovascular products [and] oncology products, not to mention generics,” Patrick Aghanian, the drugmaker’s chief in Russia, tells the paper. ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3683873 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 11:59:00 +0100 3683873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3676897&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FqLtn3zuuNJc%2F In a blow to its plans to grow beyond oncology, Roche has delayed development of its taspoglutide by at least 12 to 18 months after studies showed a higher-than-expected rate of side effects, including skin reactions, digestive symptoms, cardiovascular and respiratory probelms. (here is the statement from Ipsen, which licensed the drug to Roche). More time is needed to identify patients who may be sensitive to the drug and and remove them from the trials. Roche’s oncology franchise, which includes Herceptin, Avastin and Tarceva, accounts about 50 percent of its pharma sales. The drugmaker planned to seek FDA approval next year for its med, a once-weekly injectable that would compete with Byetta, a twice-a-day injectable from Lilly and Amylin, which hope to transform their own diabete... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3676897 Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:53:36 +0100 3676897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3666225&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FPxIkfIQXUvo%2F Good morning, everyone. Nice to see you again. Another shiny day here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are recovering from the latest installment in our ‘Let’s See Them Before They Die‘ concert series. Accordingly, we are brewing multiple cups of stimulation. Meanwhile, here are a few items to help you get started yourselves. Hope your day goes well and catch you later… Sanofi-Aventis To Cut More Costs, Sales Force (Bloomberg News) Abbott And Neurocrine Sign Deal For Endometriosis Drug (Reuters) Cipla Signs Chinese Partner To Make Biosimilars (Bloomberg News) Sanofi-Aventis Buys Canderm Pharma (Montreal Gazette) The New World Order In R&D (InPharm) USDA Approves Vaccine For Dog Flu (Los Angeles Times) Amylin Stock Hit On Bydureon Data (Reuters) Pfize... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3666225 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:03:56 +0100 3666225 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3659157&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FjA9j-WiJtWE%2F A new analysis of five previous studies involving about 60,000 patients found links between angiotensin receptor blockers, or ARBs, which are widely used blood pressure drugs, to an increased risk of cancer. Specifically, 7.2 percent of patients on an ARB were diagnosed with cancer compared with 6 percent on a placebo, which was deemed statistically significant. The study, which was published in The Lancet Oncology, determined that one extra cancer case will occur for every 105 people taking the meds for about four years, although there isn’t enough info to know if the risk disappears after the drugs are stopped. Interestingly, there was no difference in the rate of cancer deaths in people on the drugs compared to those not on them. “The risk for the individual patient is mode... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3659157 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:15:47 +0100 3659157 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3645053&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FjrKPyYmQRNQ%2F For the second time in two months, the European Medicines Agency has been criticized by its ombudsman for refusing to release data about drugs. Last month, Nikiforos Diamandouros chastised the EMA for refusing to release documents containing suspected adverse reactions caused by Accutane (background). This time, he upbraided the agency for not allowing outside investigators access to clinical trial data on two obesity pills - Acomplis, which was withdrawn by Sanofi-Aventis, and orlistat, which is sold as Xenical by Roche and as Alli, an over-the-counter med marketed by GlaxoSmithKline. Researchers at the Nordic Cochrane Centre wanted to conduct an independent analysis given that, in their view, biased reporting on drug trials was common, according to Diamandouros. But the EMA refused to pr... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3645053 Wed, 09 Jun 2010 13:21:12 +0100 3645053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3614689&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F-9oZqoepvd8%2F Richard Page thinks Multaq is an excellent new drug for treating atrial fibrillation, and the chairman of the department of medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, last year authored a large study in The New England Journal of Medicine that led to FDA approval. But his involvement allowed Sanofi-Aventis to dictate the terms, according to The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. Although he vouched for the accuracy and completeness, he never saw the raw data. The drugmaker, which paid for the study, collected that info and performed the analysis without an external audit. “These companies, if they were falsifying data, wouldn’t be kept in business if that were found out,” Page tells the paper. “I was satisfied and remain satisfied that th... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3614689 Mon, 31 May 2010 12:16:05 +0100 3614689 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3603873&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F6tEzmGo8XTg%2F Hello, everyone. A balmy morning here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are hustling various short people off to their schoolhouses. And what about you? No doubt, a busy day is under way. What to do first? Catching up on the news of the world is always a good place to start. So grab that cup of stimulation and dig in. Have a nice one and stay in touch… NICE Approves Its First Biosimilar (PharmaTimes) Sanofi-Aventis Eyes Japanese Generic Drugmaker (Reuters) Most Big Pharma Keep Drug Safety In-House (Outsourcing Pharma) Pfizer Ends Heart-Failure Drug Trial Early On Benefit (Reuters) Pfizer Buys Farmed-Fish Vaccine Maker (The Edmonton Sun) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3603873 Thu, 27 May 2010 11:49:21 +0100 3603873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3581836&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fx3xcHLRFS7Y%2F The French Competition Authority is investigating allegations made by Teva Sante, a unit of Teva Pharmaceuticals, that Sanofi-Aventis disparaged generic versions of its best-selling Plavix bloodthinner, and deliberately attempted to restrict generic access to the marketplace. In its November 2009 complaint, Teva charged that Sanofi’s communications with doctors and pharmacists emphasized differences between Plavix and generics, including Teva’s 75mg version, without revealing the differences. However, Sanofi failed to say the differences have no therapeutic significance or effect on safety or efficacy (see the statement). Sanofi’s communications with scientists and practitioners emphasised differences between Plavix and competing generics, including Teva’s clopidogrel 7... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3581836 Thu, 20 May 2010 15:22:58 +0100 3581836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3585836&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fx3xcHLRFS7Y%2F The French Competition Authority is investigating allegations made by Teva Sante, a unit of Teva Pharmaceuticals, that Sanofi-Aventis disparaged generic versions of its best-selling Plavix bloodthinner, and deliberately attempted to restrict generic access to the marketplace. In its November 2009 complaint, Teva charged that Sanofi’s communications with doctors and pharmacists emphasized differences between Plavix and generics, including Teva’s 75mg version, without revealing the differences. However, Sanofi failed to say the differences have no therapeutic significance or effect on safety or efficacy (see the statement). Sanofi’s communications with scientists and practitioners emphasised differences between Plavix and competing generics, including Teva’s clopidogrel 7... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3585836 Thu, 20 May 2010 15:22:03 +0100 3585836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577622&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FN2Mz6xyOy2c%2F A panel investigating the World Health Organization’s response to last year’s swine flu outbreak wants to see confidential exchanges between the agency and drugmakers. The 29-member panel wants WHO records and correspondence from before and after the H1N1 strain was declared a pandemic in June, the Associated Press reports. “We will want to have access to certain confidential documents that may be in place here at WHO or elsewhere,” committee chair Harvey Fineberg, who is also president of the Institute of Medicine in Washington, told reporters in Geneva, adding that documents include “contractual or letters of understanding” between the WHO and drugmakers. Some agreements have been considered confidential, but so far all requests have been met. The pane... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577622 Wed, 19 May 2010 15:45:07 +0100 3577622 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3556376&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F7Xrrvq3AF88%2F Rise and shine. Another day lies ahead. And today appears to be a bit rainy, unfortunately. Nonetheless, our spirits are sunny. Why? Once again, we enjoy repeating our favorite piece of advice from the Morning Mayor: Every brand new day should be unwrapped like a precious gift. Speaking of gifts, we would like to wish a happy birthday to Mrs. Pharmalot. Of course, you should all have a nice day. Stay in touch… Vical Cancer Drug Shows Promise In Mid-Stage Trial (Reuters) Sanofi Plans 11,000-Patient Trial Of Multaq (PharmaTimes) Daiichi Sankyo Names A New CEO (Bloomberg News) FDA Rejects Tylenol, Excedrin Study (Reuters) Key Drugs In The Merck Pipeline (Associated Press) Japanese Drugmakers’ Profits Slump (Reuters) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3556376 Wed, 12 May 2010 12:04:37 +0100 3556376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3542872&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FZ2lVXUknQLU%2F Hired someone new and exciting? Promoted a rising star? Finally solved that hard-to-fill spot? Share the news with us and we’ll share with it others. That’s right. Send us your announcements and we’ll find a home for them. Don’t be shy. Everyone wants to know who is coming and going, especially with all the layoffs. Despite the downsizing, there is movement. Here are some of the latest changes. Recognize anyone? And here is something we hope to make a regular feature. Send us a photo and we will spotlight a different person each week. This time around, we note that The University City Science Center in Philadelphia promoted Chris Laing to vp, Science & Technology, overseeing business incubators and the QED Proof-of-Concept Program. He also provides direct R&D strategy sup... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3542872 Fri, 07 May 2010 11:40:40 +0100 3542872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3538387&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F8SmLptd4QEY%2F The industry cutbacks continue. Of course, 70 positions is relatively modest compared with the thousands announced at various times. Just the same these do add up. Sanofi-Aventis, which recently eliminated another 70 jobs at its US headquarters in Bridgewater, New Jersey, (see here), cites decaying patent protection as a key reason for deteriorating business conditions and, by extention, the job cuts. In announcing the cuts, Sanofi-Aventis complains that brand-name drugmakers in Canada have “no effective right of appeal” when facing patent challenges and, as a result, generics can appear before patents expires. Using rather pointed language, the drugmaker says the “lack of government policy leadership” threatens its ability to maintain R&D investments, capital ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3538387 Wed, 05 May 2010 22:55:07 +0100 3538387 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3526950&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FKDwZ00YYxY0%2F Welcome back. We hope your weekend was pleasant and you feel refreshed. A rainy day here on the Pharmalot corporate campus as the routine returns. And that means meetings and deadlines are looming. To help you along, we have assembled another collection of interesting items. So grab a cup or two of stimulation and dig in. Have a good day, everyone, and stay in touch… German Report Casts Doubt About Roche’s Avastin (Reuters) Takeda Drugs Tops Rivals In Blood Pressure Studies (Reuters) Sanofi-Aventis & Glenmark Strike Deal For Pain Drugs (The Wall Street Journal) Pfizer Sues Ranbaxy Over Rapamune Patent (The Business Standard) Oslo Court Backs Schering-Plough In Animal Vaccine Dispute (FishNewsEU) Serbia Halts Privatization Of Galenika Pharma (FocusFen) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3526950 Mon, 03 May 2010 11:44:06 +0100 3526950 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3511780&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=38374&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FePharmaSummit%2F%7E3%2F0M0CHYvQrGo%2Fsave-date-multi-channel-pharma.html (Source: ePharma Summit) ePharma Summit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3511780 Wed, 28 Apr 2010 14:40:00 +0100 3511780 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3472045&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FrwMB_svGGyE%2F Hello, everyone. Another busy morning as we hustle various short people to the schoolhouses. And things are likely to get only more hectic with all those meetings and deadlines. So grab your cup of stimulation and dive in. Meanwhile, here are a few items to help you along. Have a good day and catch you soon…. Celgene Strikes Cancer Drug Deal With Agios (Reuters) Genzyme Board Move Could Weaken Icahn (The Wall Street Journal) Pfizer Hires Ketchum Pleon To Promote Baby Milk Biz (PR Week) Sigma Pharma CEO Quits (Bloomberg News) Roche Sales Beat Forecast (The Wall Street Journal) Sanofi Says Diabetes Drug Study Results Are Positive (Reuters) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3472045 Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:42:25 +0100 3472045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3454195&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fipad-as-pharma-marketing-platform.html "DTC marketers can't afford the luxury of waiting to see how many people purchase an iPad they have to start experimenting with app development and marketing NOW," says Rich Meyer over at World of DTC Marketing Blog.The best example of an iPad DTC app Meyer could think of, however, was a cookbook for people with diabetes. As if the world needed a new diabetes cookbook!I have an iPad and am enjoying it. I have even used it when cooking -- propped up on my kitchen counter next to the chicken parts. But I used the browser to find a recipe for BBQ ribs -- there were hundreds to choose from. I don't need an app for that. I assume the Internet is also full of recipes suitable for people with diabetes.But Rich was probably thinking of something more useful. Something like Sanofi-Aventis's GoMeals... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3454195 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 14:06:00 +0100 3454195 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3443982&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FCxpf7x6GiKE%2F Sanofi-Aventis’s Multaq, which got off to a slow start last year, is only modestly effective and has no clear safety benefits, according to a new study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. The study found the heart med is 50 percent less effective against atrial fibrillation than its rival amiodarone, which is sold under several brand names including Cordarone (here’s the abstract). “We believe that dronedarone should only be used as a second-line or third-line agent in individuals that are not able to tolerate amiodarone or other first-line agents recommended by the guidelines,” Dr. Sanjay Kaul, Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute who led the study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, said in a statement. Amiodarone works well a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3443982 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:16:45 +0100 3443982 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3443983&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FPHedEVOSc7Y%2F Good morning, everyone. Hope your week is going well. We are on an altered scheduled, as it so happens, but have a nifty system to keep you abreast of developments. And so here are a few that we hope will ease your day. Meanwhile, we are grabbing the required cup of stimulation - we go nowhere without one - and invite you to do the same. Stay in touch… Prescription Drug Overdoses Rise In The US (Reuters) Sanofi Chemo Drug Pact Should Draw FTC Scrutiny (Seeking Alpha) AIDS Group Asks Bristol To Cut Drug Price (press release) UK Cuts Swine Flu Vaccine Order (Associated Press) Merck Drug Shows Promise In Pelvic Cancer Patients (Reuters) Clearstone To Close New Jersey Lab (OutsourcingPharma) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3443983 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:16:20 +0100 3443983 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3441056&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FPzAoXvU6U6Q%2F In response to generic threats on two older meds - the Ambien CR sleeping pill and Aplenzin antidepressant - and declining sales of the Actonel osteoporosis med - the big drugmaker notifed employees that 400 positions, mostly sales reps, are being eliminated. The move is the latest cutback by Sanofi-Aventis, which is grappling with the same patent cliff as rivals. To cope, Sanofi is outsourcing sales for Aplenzin, which is a not a substantial revenue generator, and restructuring its promotional arrangement with Warner-Chilcott (see this) for Actonel, which notched $264 million in sales and is a declining product (see page 85 here). The bad news - and a source says there will be more - was delivered by way of email from Jerry Durso, Jerry Durso, vp of the specialized therapeutics business u... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3441056 Tue, 06 Apr 2010 12:37:01 +0100 3441056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3429450&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FF86BachDljI%2F Hello, everyone. Another day is under way and we are brewing our usual cup of stimulation. What will today bring? Hopefully, much will be accomplished. As you gaze at your to-do list, here are a few items to help you along. Good luck with everything and stay in touch… Novartis And Orion’s Parkinson’s Drug May Have Cancer Risk (Bloomberg News) Sanofi Settles With Sandoz And Teva On Eloxatin Patent (Reuters) Pfizer To Cut 123 More Pearl River, NY, Jobs (Times Herald-Record) Vanda Pharma Exec Leaves For Start-Up (Washington Business Journal) UK’s NICE Backs Lilly’s Alimta Cancer Drug (Reuters) KV Pharma Lays Off 289 Workers (St. Louis Business Journal) Horizon Therapeutics Nears Deal To Buy Nitec (Bloomberg News) Coffee pix thx to chichcacha flickr creative commo... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3429450 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 11:45:28 +0100 3429450 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3429381&cid=t_115614_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fnewsflash-new-sanofi-aventis-glucose-meters-brought-to-you-by-agamatrix.html Today, Sanofi-Aventis announced that it’s getting into the glucose meter manufacturing business, by partnering with a small company known for highly accurate meter technology, AgaMatrix (makers of WaveSense products, based on a patented electrochemistry formula). Reports say the new Sanofi-branded meters will be out later this year, and that this move is part of a larger [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3429381 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 21:00:47 +0100 3429381 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420756&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fle-5z4uvCWw%2F Hello, everyone. A rainy day here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, but we try to keep our spirits sunny. No reason not to do so, after all. As the Morning Mayor used to say, ‘Every brand new day should be opened like a precious gift.’ So let us unwrap the bow. And then grab a cup of stimulation. Hope your day goes well, and stay in touch… Medivation Lays Off 20 Percent Of Staff (Bloomberg News) Astra, Abbott Heart Drug Delayed (Reuters) Judge Tosses Plavix Antitrust Suit (Dow Jones) Astellas And OSI Sign Confidentiality Agreement (Bloomberg News) Genvec Ends Cancer Drug Trial (Reuters) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420756 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 12:03:02 +0100 3420756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420758&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F3siamx0eDUw%2F This is a list of the top 20 drugmakers, ranked by global prescription drug sales for the 12 months ended Sept. 30, 2009, according to IMS Health, which prepared this for Reuters. The dollar sales are in billions and, next to that, is the percent change from the year-over-year period. As you can see, though, the results don’t include the mergers between Merck and Schering-Plough, and Pfizer and Wyeth, since these weren’t consummated until later in the year. 1 - Pfizer - $41.7 billion - (0.8) 2 - Novartis - $36.7 billion - 7.0 3 - Sanofi-Aventis - $35.1 billion - 3.3 4 - GlaxoSmithKline - $34.3 billion - (3.4) 5 - AstraZeneca - $33.2 billion - 7.8 6 - Roche - $31.3 billion - 8.6 7 - Johnson & Johnson - $26.9 bi... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420758 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 16:43:51 +0100 3420758 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416323&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FL5JLqz1QWAQ%2F File this under fabulous marketing. The recently launched Multaq drug for atrial fibrillation received some unusual treatment from the American College of Cardiology and the Heart Rhythm Society, which teamed to launch a new web site devoted to treating atrial fibrillation. As noted by CardioBrief, the Sanofi-Aventis logo appears in the lower right hand corner under “site sponsors” and no other companies are listed, but there is no specific mention of sponsorship, or the role of the sponsor. Here’s where it gets interesting. Last week, the site featured a “Learn From The Experts” lecture by Eric Prystowsky who showed slides on managing atrial fibrillation and made a case for off-label and off-guideline use of Multaq, CardioBrief writes. He “relies on subgroup a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416323 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:47:50 +0100 3416323 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3404144&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=38374&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FePharmaSummit%2F%7E3%2F5V-AV6G5yMA%2F9th-annual-epharma-summit-full-video.html (Source: ePharma Summit) ePharma Summit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3404144 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:25:00 +0100 3404144 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399177&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FCn7AlbthmxM%2F Hello, everyone. Nice to see you again. We were on the road part of yesterday, so resuming the usual routine is always welcome. And, of course, there is much to do. We all face meetings and deadlines, after all. To get started, we are brewing our mandatory cup of stimulation and looking forward to a day of accomplishments. We hope you achieve your own goals today. To help you along, here are a few items of interest. Stay in touch… Regeneron Shares Jump After CEO Touts Drugs (Reuters) FDA Panel Mostly Backs Controversial Knee Device (Associated Press) Sanofi-Aventis Antiplatelet Drug Gets EC Approval (MarketWatch) Novartis Gives Voltaren Emulgel Account To Starcom In China (MediaAsia) Glaxo And Pfizer Agree To Supply Pneumonia Vaccines (Associated Press) Perrigo Buys Infant Formula M... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399177 Wed, 24 Mar 2010 11:47:28 +0100 3399177 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3390988&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fwhat-has-sanofi-aventis-learned-from.html Dennis Urbaniak, VP U.S. Diabetes and former VP of Innovation and New Customer Channels, Sanofi-Aventis, called what's happening on the Wall of his company's VOICES Facebook page a "key learning experience." He made this comment in a call to me last week. To explain what he meant by that, I invited Mr. Urbaniak to be a guest on my Pharma Marketing Talk show this week (click here for details).What Sanofi-Aventis Learned from Its FaceBook Experience & What the Experts Recommend It Do NowA conversation with Dennis Urbaniak, VP U.S. Diabetes at sanofi-aventis, about the recent activity on S-A's VOICES corporate Facebook page. We'll discuss the lessons learned and hear advice from independent experts. Urbaniak is willing to answer questions and consider advice from listeners.A FREE Pharma Marke... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3390988 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 11:48:00 +0100 3390988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3383078&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fwheres-your-social-media-crisis.html According to Chris Kenton of SmartMarketers.com's Inspire Blog, "Surprisingly few companies... have protocols in place to manage social media disasters as they unfold -- even those that have sophisticated crisis management protocols in place for non-social media issues."Many pharmaceutical companies may be guilty of that lapse in their crisis management strategy. This topic came up today in the #hcsmeu Twitter discussion around Sanofi-Aventis and its VOICES Facebook fiasco (for the story background, see "Patient "Unadvocate" Lays Siege to sanofi-aventis VOICES Facebook Page. Where's S-A's Social Media VOICE?"). The specific questions under discussion were:How should Sanofi aventis have dealt with their Facebook problem? (submitted by Sam Walmsley; @sammielw)How should a pharmaco "engage" a... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3383078 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:18:00 +0100 3383078 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3378732&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fj_XwUiio9VA%2F The move is designed to jumpstart testing and approval of new regimens for so-called drug cocktails to combat tuberculosis, AIDS and cancer. The guidelines would apply only to drugs for life-threatening illnesses for which options don’t already exist, and that drug cocktails are believed necessary. Among those involved: the Critical Path to TB Regimens, which includes Pfizer, Sanofi-Aventis, AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline and a unit of Johnson & Johnson; Global Alliance for TB Drug Development, the Critical Path Institute and Treatment Action Group, as well as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The companies have agreed to share data and test combo treatments. “This represents a bigger issue - the strengthening of regulatory science” to encompass scientific advances,... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3378732 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:10:42 +0100 3378732 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374373&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fshould-sanofi-aventis-submit-adverse.html Sanofi-Aventis (S-A) submitted 14 pages of comments to Docket No. FDA‐2009‐N‐0441 regarding Promotion of FDA‐Regulated Medical Products Using the Internet and Social Media Tools (find it here)."As part of routine monitoring of online discussions hosted, or with participation, by a company, postings that contain potential adverse event reports should be addressed according to established company policies and procedures for handling and reporting spontaneous adverse event reports according to current FDA regulations," said S-A in its comments. "This includes, when appropriate [my emphasis], to follow-up to obtain the necessary elements needed to report an adverse event."Considering the problems that S-A is experiencing on its VOICE Facebook page with regard to "disgruntled patient" S... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374373 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:19:00 +0100 3374373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374376&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FEjbcJQRV5rM%2F The Special Committee on Aging wants to know why there are “large discrepancies” between the prices charged for meds in the US and other industrialized countries. So letters were sent to six drugmakers - AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Lilly, GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis and Sanofi-Aventis - to explain why drugs can cost up to four times more in the US (click each name to see the letters). And the hearing, which is called ‘Seniors Feeling the Squeeze,’ starts at 2:30 pm EST today. The letters note that US consumers spend an average of $878 a person on meds, compared with $446 a person in other industrialized countries, and then cite specific examples of differences in price. For instance, AstraZeneca’s Nexium costs $3.91 in the US compared with $1.32 in the UK and 88 cents ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374376 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:15:17 +0100 3374376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374379&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fu_DIWXy6OTM%2F Hello, everyone, nice to see you again. Another fine morning here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where sunrise is a welcome sight. And as the saying goes, spring is in the air. We are celebrating with a cup of stimulation as we rifle through the news of the world. Here are a few of those dispatches for your edification. Hope your day is sunny…. Favus Issues 2nd Bearish Report On Dendreon (TheStreet) Sanofi Says WHO Vaccine Suspension Is Precautionary (Bloomberg News) King Pays $42.5M To Settle Kickback Claims (Justice Department statement) Antidepressants Can Help People With Physical Ills (Reuters) Glenmark Told To Halt Sales Of Nitroglycerin Pills (Moneycontrol) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374379 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:40:27 +0100 3374379 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374374&cid=t_115614_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fsanofi-aventis-updates-facebook-site.html Recently, Sanofi-Aventis has been having problems with its VOICES Facebook page (see "Disgruntled Patient Shuts Down sanofi-aventis Facebook Page"). I previously suggested S-A made a faux pas because it did NOT take its own advice about posting a Terms of Use policy on its VOICES Facebook page (see "Patient "Unadvocate" Lays Siege to sanofi-aventis VOICES Facebook Page. Where's S-A's Social Media VOICE?"). I guess someone at S-A read my post because the site now has a disclaimer, which says, in part:"This page is not intended as a forum for discussing sanofi-aventis’ or other companies products including the reporting of side effects associated with the use of prescription drugs. As such, Postings that contain product discussions may be removed by sanofi-aventis."The VOICES Wall is now b... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374374 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 18:53:00 +0100 3374374