WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Medication names are scientifically developed to ensure patient safety, with strict processes including chemical, generic, and brand names. The FDA and international bodies oversee these names to prevent errors and ensure global recognition.

HSV polymerase mutations confer resistance to antivirals acyclovir and foscarnet, affecting enzyme movement rather than drug binding. Cryo-EM reveals these mutations make polymerase fingers more dynamic, aiding viral evasion. Future drugs targeting static polymerase conformations may combat resistance.

Southeast Asia offers unique advantages for vaccine trials, including faster recruitment, lower costs, and higher immunisation rates, according to Novotech's Chris Chong. The region's large vaccine-naïve population and high prevalence of emerging diseases make it ideal for such trials. Novotech's research shows Asia-Pacific dominates prophylactic vaccine trials, with 46% of sites located in the region.

Valneva reports 96% seroresponse 3 years post-vaccination with IXCHIQ®, with comparable antibody persistence in older and younger adults, aligning with 2-year data. The vaccine, approved in the U.S., Europe, and Canada, aims for label extensions to include adolescents.

Tonix Pharmaceuticals filed an NDA for TNX-102 SL in fibromyalgia, supported by positive Phase 3 trial results. TNX-801, a vaccine for mpox and smallpox, is in development, with new data showing no spread in immunocompromised animals. Tonix is also developing TNX-1500, a third-generation anti-CD40L antibody for autoimmune diseases and transplant rejection. Financial results show decreased R&D and G&A expenses, with $28.2 million in cash and cash equivalents as of September 30, 2024.

Achieve Life Sciences announces successful End-of-Phase 2 FDA meeting for cytisinicline as a potential first-in-class vaping cessation therapy. The FDA agreed that one Phase 3 trial (ORCA-V2) along with the completed Phase 2 ORCA-V1 trial would suffice. The planned Phase 3 study will evaluate 3 mg cytisinicline three times daily versus placebo in approximately 800 adults who use e-cigarettes, targeting initiation in Q3 2025.

Negotiated prices for 10 Medicare drugs fell from initial net prices, with reductions ranging from 8% to 42%, but all except insulin aspart remained more expensive in the U.S. than in peer countries. The study highlights the need for continued assessment of future negotiation rounds, especially with potential inclusion of Part B drugs, to maximize savings.

WHO reports long COVID affects 10-20% of patients, with pulmonary sequelae including restrictive lung disease. No clinical guidelines exist, but a study on bovhyaluronidase azoximer (BA) shows potential for treating pulmonary sequelae and long COVID.