Approvals
The anti-CD20 antibody, developed by Roche’s Genentech along with Biogen and already approved for multiple oncology indications, is branching into autoimmune disease. Its B cell–targeting mechanism of action gives it activity in improving kidney conditions in patients with lupus nephritis.
Rybelsus can now be used as a primary or secondary prevention pill to lower the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in at-risk patients with type 2 diabetes.
Glaukos’ Epioxa allows cross-linking therapy for keratoconus without requiring an incision. The biotech expects to launch the drug early next year.
New analysis from Jefferies shows that rare disease and cancer drugs granted the status are especially likely to be approved.
In the Phase III FIBRONEER-IPF study, Jascayd demonstrated significant lung capacity improvements over placebo.
Due to policies regarding industry user fees, the FDA will not be able to accept any new drug applications for the duration of the government shutdown, according to Leerink Partners.
The first oral BTK blocker for chronic spontaneous urticaria, Rhapsido offers a more convenient treatment option for patients who still show symptoms after antihistamine treatment.
The FDA in September issued two rejections for spinal muscular atrophy therapies—both linked to manufacturing problems—and granted approvals in Barth syndrome and for a subcutaneous version of Merck’s Keytruda that could be key to the blockbuster’s future earnings.
The regulatory greenlight was backed by two Phase III trials that showed normalized growth hormone levels in patients with the rare pituitary condition. It’s the first approval for Crinetics Pharmaceuticals and something CEO Scott Struthers predicted “will transform people’s lives.”
For the last two years, Keytruda has reigned as the world’s top-selling drug—a distinction under threat with key patent protections expiring in 2028.
PRESS RELEASES