GlaxoSmithKline

GSK removed branded Flovent, a crucial asthma drug for children, from the US market, replacing it with a costly generic lacking insurance coverage. This has left families struggling to afford essential asthma medications, despite some manufacturers capping out-of-pocket costs at $35. The situation endangers children's health, with limited, expensive alternatives available.

Pfizer's RSV vaccine Abrysvo showed promising immune response in higher risk adults under 60, similar to older adults. Pfizer plans to seek expanded approval for ages 18-59. GSK also aims to expand its RSV vaccine Arexvy's age range, with FDA decision expected by June 7. RSV is a major cause of pneumonia in toddlers and older adults.

Moderna's shares surged 10% after reporting a Q4 profit surpassing expectations, despite a 2/3 sales drop to $6.7B in 2023 due to lower COVID vaccination rates. The company forecasts $4B in 2024 sales, partly from an RSV vaccine under review, and is developing a flu-COVID combo shot for future growth.

TEVA leverages its strong generic drug portfolio and innovative treatments in CNS, oncology, and respiratory areas for competitive advantage. Its 'Pivot to Growth' strategy focuses on enhancing global commercial and R&D capabilities. Despite facing intense competition, price pressures, and macroeconomic challenges, TEVA sees opportunities in biosimilars and market diversification. Regulatory compliance and geopolitical risks remain significant threats.

The report highlights advancements in vaccine technologies targeting infectious diseases, cancers, and allergies, emphasizing market growth driven by R&D, new product launches, and strategic collaborations. It covers market segmentation, trends, and competitive landscape, offering insights for stakeholders and potential entrants.

Latozinemab, developed by Alector, Inc. and GSK, received FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation for treating FTD-GRN, a rare neurodegenerative disease. It's the first investigational medicine for FTD-GRN, aiming to elevate progranulin levels. Currently in Phase 3 study, it addresses a significant unmet need with no FDA-approved treatments available.

GSK Plc reported a 10% increase in Q4 adjusted operating profit to £1.75 billion, with Arexvy vaccine sales reaching £1.2 billion in 2023. Shingrix sales grew 17% annually to £3.5 billion. The company forecasts 5%-7% sales growth and 7%-10% profit increase in 2024, upgrading long-term growth outlooks.

The CheckMate 8HW trial showed nivolumab plus ipilimumab significantly reduced disease progression or death risk by 79% in MSI-H/dMMR metastatic colorectal cancer patients, compared to chemotherapy. With a 24-month progression-free survival rate of 72% vs 14%, and fewer severe adverse events, this immunotherapy combination may offer a new first-line treatment option.

Clarivate's 2024 Drugs to Watch report highlights 13 new therapeutics expected to achieve blockbuster status by 2029, targeting conditions like sickle cell disease, RSV, and breast cancer. It also notes the growing chronic disease market in China and the impact of new technologies like CRISPR-Cas9 and AI in drug development.