Here are the latest stories being discussed in biopharma today:
1. ‘FDA Moves to Eliminate the Interchangeability Designation for Biosimilars’
The FDA is seeking to remove the interchangeability designation for biosimilars, claiming the two-tier system causes confusion and is no longer scientifically relevant. The agency is pushing Congress to take action, aiming to boost uptake of biosimilar drugs.
2. ‘Pfizer, BioNTech Granted Pause in Covid-19 Patent Lawsuit Trial By Moderna’
A federal judge has granted a pause in Moderna’s lawsuit against Pfizer and BioNTech. The lawsuit, alleging patent infringement related to Covid-19 vaccines, will be on hold pending a review by the US Patent and Trademark Office.
3. ‘FDA Launches New Trial Innovation Center to Boost Industry Interactions’
The FDA has established the Center for Clinical Trial Innovation aimed at making drug development more efficient. The Center will help keep clinical trial sponsors updated on new innovations, improve clinical trial data, and promote participant diversity.
4. ‘Gabrielle Union-Wade Advocates for Patient-Centered Healthcare at Media Agency Event’
Actress Gabrielle Union-Wade emphasized the need for better healthcare and pharma marketing during a recent event hosted by Publicis Health Media. She encouraged marketers to meet patients where they’re at, given that patients are increasingly taking their health matters into their own hands.
5. ‘Government Accountability Office Scrutinizes State PBM Regulation Amid Consideration of Reforms’
The Government Accountability Office investigated states’ pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) regulations and found that most prefer broad regulatory authority over PBMs. This approach allows regulators to respond more quickly to arising issues.
6. ‘Equip, a Telehealth Startup Addressing Eating Disorders, Raises $35M’
Equip, a virtual eating disorder treatment startup, has raised $35 million in new funding. The company has pulled in over $95 million to date, with investments from Optum Ventures, Tiger Global, and General Catalyst, among others.
