And so, another working week will soon draw to a close. This is, as you know, our treasured signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda is exceedingly modest. We are being left to our own devices for a few days so we expect to devote ourselves to the official mascot, take a few naps, and manicure the Pharmalot grounds. And what about you? This remains a fine time to enjoy the great outdoors — there are hills to hike, parks to stroll, and drives to be taken. You could look ahead to a summer getaway. Or simply plan the rest of your life. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you soon …
Pharmaceutical companies have teamed up with global cancer organizations in an alliance aimed at getting more oncology medications to lower-income countries, Reuters writes. Currently, fewer than 50% of the cancer drugs on the World Health Organization essential medicines list are available in low- and middle-income countries. In the first concrete step for the Access to Oncology Medicines Coalition, Novartis has licensed its blood cancer drug nilotinib to the Medicines Patent Pool, allowing generic manufacturers to access the know-how to produce the drug at scale and at a lower cost. Nilotinib is the first drug for a noncommunicable disease in the pool.
Covid-19 vaccine makers may find shelter from patent lawsuits under a legal theory Moderna is floating in a case that could shape post-pandemic deals between drugmakers and the U.S. government, Bloomberg News explains. Moderna is fighting an attempt by Arbutus Biopharma and Genevant Sciences to seek royalties for sales of its Covid-19 vaccine by arguing their claims are misdirected and should instead be brought against the government, citing a law designed to protect government suppliers. Legal experts say if Moderna is successful, the outcome could provide a roadmap to dodge lawsuits for other drugmakers working with the U.S. on pandemic-like response efforts.
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