Hoechst heats up arthritis-drug duel

Article Abstract:

Germany-based Hoechst AG's new arthritis drug Arava can slow the progression of joint damage in severe arthritis over 12 months, according to X-ray results presented in San Diego, CA. Arava is Hoechst's answer to Immunex Corp.'s Enbrel, which is viewed by scientists as a breakthrough because it blocks a critical immune molecule called tumor necrosis factor. Arava, an updated version of an old class of drugs, has similar side-effects and efficacy to a previous medicine called methotrexate. Hoechst's drug costs around $3,000 annually compared with $10,000 for the genetically engineered product of Immunex.

Comment:

Its new arthritis drug Arava can slow progression of joint damage in severe arthritis over 12 months, according to X-ray results

Antiarthritic Analgesic Preps, Antiarthritic agents, Hoechst AG

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U.S. FDA panel backs two drugs for breast cancer

Article Abstract:

The first two drugs to show that they can lower the possibility of breast cancer in healthy women has won the approval of a scientific advisory panel with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, the panel warned that the drug has proven to be effective in combating breast cancer for only a few years. The drug's potency after that time is in doubt. Zeneca Group PLC's Nolvadex and Genentech Inc.'s Herceptin were the drugs that won approval.

Comment:

First two drugs to show that they can lower the possibility of breast cancer in healthy women wins approval of FDA panel

Anticancer Drugs, Antineoplastic agents, Genentech Inc., Zeneca Group PLC

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Merck plans to buy Sibia for 81.4 million euros

Article Abstract:

Merck & Co. has reached an agreement to purchase Sibia Neurosciences Inc. for $87 million (81.4 million euros). The deal will strengthen Merck's attempts at developing nervous-system disorder medicines. La Jolla-based Sibia is known for its brain receptor research. Merck stated that it would pay $8.50 per share to acquire Sibia.

Asset sales & divestitures, Acquisitions & mergers, Pharmaceutical Preparations, Pharmaceutical industry, Mergers, acquisitions and divestments, Drugs, Abstract, Merck & Company Inc., SIBIA Neurosciences Inc.

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