BRISTOL MYERS SQUIBB

The FDA approved four notable drugs in 2024, including Vertex's Alyftrek for cystic fibrosis, Novo Nordisk's Alhemo for hemophilia, and Bristol Myers' Opdivo Qvantiq for cancer. These approvals highlight advancements in treatment options and market exclusivity extensions for the companies involved.

Pharmaceutical companies are increasing prices on over 250 brand drugs, with a median increase of 4.5%. Pfizer led with hikes on over 60 drugs, including a 3% increase for Paxlovid. Significant hikes include Leadiant Pharmaceuticals raising prices by 15-20% on specific treatments. The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act has influenced companies to adjust strategies, focusing on new drugs and treatments for rare diseases.

CARsgen Therapeutics' CAR-T therapy, satri-cel, shows efficacy in treating advanced gastric cancer, marking a significant advancement for CAR-T in solid tumors. Positive phase 2 trial results may lead to a regulatory filing in China, potentially making it the first CAR-T product for solid tumors. Claudin 18.2, a tumor-specific target, plays a key role in this breakthrough.

Sanofi partners with Blackstone for €300M funding to accelerate Sarclisa's subcutaneous formulation trials for multiple myeloma, aiming to compete with J&J's Darzalex. Blackstone will receive royalties upon approval. Sarclisa targets a $1B+ brand, with 2021 sales at €176M.

FDA approved Opdivo Qvantig, a faster, injectable form of nivolumab, reducing treatment time to 5 minutes. It offers flexibility for patients to receive treatment outside hospitals, maintaining efficacy and safety comparable to IV infusion, for various cancers.

FDA approved Bristol Myers Squibb’s Opvido Qvantig for subcutaneous use in adult solid tumors, showing efficacy and safety comparable to IV Opdivo. The Phase III CheckMate-67T trial confirmed non-inferior pharmacokinetics and similar ORR. The new option offers faster, flexible treatment administration.

The FDA approved 50 novel medicines in 2024, including Vertex's Alyftrek for cystic fibrosis, Novo Nordisk's Alhemo for hemophilia, and Bristol Myers' Opdivo Qvantiq for cancer. Lilly's Zepbound also gained approval for treating obstructive sleep apnea, expanding its use beyond weight loss.

Scripps Health out-of-network for Anthem Blue Cross. New CA law increases penalties for ER worker assaults. Nursing homes face staffing rule uncertainty. Heron Therapeutics moves HQ to NC. Medi-Cal covers Native healing. Medicare drug price cap at $2,000. Drugmakers to raise prices on 250+ meds. CA law keeps medical debt off credit reports. CA increases family leave pay. New CA laws affect K-12 education. Baby food labels in CA to show heavy metals. CA considers psychedelics legalization. Norovirus spikes in Bay Area. Avian flu in US dairy cattle, poultry. FDA tests raw cow's milk cheese for bird flu. COVID winter wave hits US. Listeria risk prompts broccoli recall.

FDA approved subcutaneous Nivolumab and hyaluronidase-nvhy for treating various solid tumors, offering a quicker, more convenient alternative to IV infusions. The CHECKMATE-67T trial confirmed its efficacy and safety, matching IV nivolumab's profile, with a 24% overall response rate in patients.