Rise and shine, everyone, another busy day is on the way. And it is getting off to a good start here on the Pharmalot campus, where clear blue skies and balmy breezes are greeting us. Who could ask for anything more? Actually, we could — it is time to reheat the kettle for another cuppa stimulation. Our choice today is raspberry hibiscus. And here is a helpful tip — a teaspoon of honey enhances the flavors splendidly. Of course, you are invited to join us. For the full experience, we are now hawking replicas — take a look. Meanwhile, here are a few tidbits to help you along. As always, do keep in touch. We appreciate feedback, criticism, and tips. …
Drugmakers are delaying launches of some new medicines in Europe as the industry grapples with U.S. pressure and pricing policy shifts from President Trump, according to Reuters. The White House has been pushing to lower the cost of prescription drugs in the U.S., which has traditionally paid significantly more than other wealthy countries. Trump says the industry has been unfair to U.S. consumers and has sought to tie the cost for Americans to what is paid elsewhere, including in Europe, known as most-favored-nation pricing. That has led drugmakers to press pause on bringing some drugs to European markets, where health spending is lower, to avoid lowering prices in the $700 billion U.S. market. It has also created a complex balancing act for chief executive officers and Europe’s health care policy makers.
Eli Lilly agreed to buy Centessa Pharmaceuticals, the maker of an experimental drug meant to combat sleeping conditions, for roughly $6.3 billion in cash, STAT notes. Centessa, which was publicly launched in 2021, started with more than a dozen programs across a range of diseases, but over the years it has focused on disorders that leave people struggling to stay awake. Its lead drug has been tested in Phase 2 studies in different types of narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia. Centessa is behind Takeda Pharmaceuticals, which has submitted a drug for narcolepsy type 1 to regulators for review, and Alkermes, which plans to start a Phase 3 program for its narcolepsy treatment this year.
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