Hello, everyone, and welcome to the middle of the week. Although this is often a slow time of year, it has been a busy few days, lately, yes? Well, that can only mean one thing — time for another cup of stimulation. The neurons need a little help, you know? So feel free to join us. Meanwhile, we have, once again, gathered some tidbits to help you on your own journey. Hope this is a productive day and do keep us in mind when something fascinating occurs …
The US Food and Drug Administration approved the first biosimilar version of Enbrel, which is sold by Amgen and used to treat psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, among other things. However, commercial availability may be delayed until March, because US courts have ruled companies must wait 180 days after winning FDA approval before sales can start. The biosimilar version will be called Erelzi and marketed by Sandoz, the generic unit of Novartis.
A UK charity called the National AIDS Trust is turning to crowdfunding to finance a legal challenge against the National Health Service, Pharmaphorum says. The NHS refused to cover the HIV prevention pill known as Truvada, which is sold by Gilead Sciences, because the agency believes local authorities have responsibility to pay for such treatments. NAT argues the NHS should do so because HIV infection is increasing among gay men in England.
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