Top Biopharma News for 03/07/2024

Here are the latest stories being discussed in biopharma today:

Pharma Companies Present IRA Cases in New Jersey Court

Pharmaceutical companies Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, and Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen have collectively made arguments against the Inflation Reduction Act’s drug negotiation provisions in New Jersey’s district court. They claim that the act violates constitutional rights, including the freedom of speech and the takings clause which states that the government cannot take private property for public use without just compensation.

Lawmakers Call for Division Between US and Chinese Biotech Companies

House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party members, from both democrat and republican side, have expressed concerns over Chinese biotech companies in a recent hearing. They have called for a line to be drawn between US and “foreign adversary” companies, and have introduced legislation to ban federally funded entities from doing business with such companies.

BeiGene’s Brukinsa Secures Fifth FDA Approval

BeiGene’s Brukinsa has secured its fifth FDA approval for B-cell malignancies, positioning the drug for potential sales growth. The approval is specifically for follicular lymphoma patients after two or more lines of prior therapy.

Lilly Pushes Back Against Misuse of Obesity Drugs

Eli Lilly is launching two new TV advertisements for its obesity drug that aim to challenge cosmetic misuse of such drugs and target its associated stigma. The ads will run on national platforms, including during the Academy Awards.

Boehringer Ingelheim Caps Inhaler Costs at $35

Following pressure from Senate Democrats, Boehringer Ingelheim has decided to cap out-of-pocket costs for its inhalers at $35 per month, starting from June. However, people enrolled in federal insurance programs will be excluded due to government restrictions.

Novo Unlikely to Outsource API Production for GLP-1s

Novo Nordisk has shared plans for supplying the demand for its GLP-1 drugs, including maintaining in-house production of its API. This strategy is linked with the strategic procurement of three facilities from Catalent.

Bristol Myers Approval for Opdivo Combo as First-Line Bladder Cancer Treatment

Bristol Myers has gained approval for its Opdivo combination as a first-line bladder cancer treatment. This adds to a series of recent approvals for Opdivo, supporting its position in the market.

Novo Touts Early Data for Next-Gen Oral Weight Loss Drug

Novo is promoting early data for its advanced oral weight loss drug as it plans next steps for the drug’s development process. The company is looking to gain a competitive advantage in the crowded weight loss drug market.