Looking forward in 2024, Fierce Pharma has published a report listing the drug patents that will expire in 2024, including for blockbusters from Bristol Myers Squibb and Biogen, plus medicines with prominent histories from Novo Nordisk, Astellas and Novartis.

Akari Therapeutics is merging with Peak Bio in an all-stock deal, creating a combined entity under the Akari Therapeutics Plc name. The merger will integrate Akari’s advanced clinical programs with Peak Bio's new drug candidates, focusing on cancer and rare diseases.

The UK's MHRA has authorized a new formulation of XGEVA (denosumab) through the new International Recognition Procedure (IRP) in just 30 days.

The MHRA recently issued new guidance designed to streamline the assessment process for established medicines, implemented since March 1, 2024.

In the last couple of weeks, there has been a flurry of news articles surrounding job layoffs at a series of pharma and biotech organizations taking drastic cost cutting measures in response to financial pressures.

KPMG Life Sciences CEO Outlook has highlighted a range of challenges predicted by CEOs in the life sciences sector. Factors such as pricing pressures and patent expirations may affect the sector's growth, with many CEOs expecting subdued growth rates.

Zeno Health has successfully raised $25 million in Series C funding, led by Korean PE firm STIC Investments and supported by existing investor Lightbox.

Redx Pharma has initiated a Phase I clinical trial for RXC008, a new class of ROCK inhibitor aimed at treating fibrostenotic Crohn's disease. This study, focusing on safety and pharmacokinetics, marks a significant step in addressing a condition currently limited to surgical interventions. Results are anticipated by year's end.

Curve Therapeutics has raised over $50 million Series A financing, led by Pfizer Ventures, to enhance its drug discovery platform. The funds will be used to expand their team, advance lead assets into clinical development, and grow their discovery platform.

Novo Nordisk has entered a $1.46 billion agreement with Neomorph to develop molecular glue degraders targeting cardiometabolic disorders and rare diseases. The collaboration encompasses upfront and milestone payments for multiple targets.

Janux Therapeutics' stock value soared after early trial results suggested its immunotherapy technology could offer potent, safer treatments for solid tumors.

Viking Therapeutics' weight loss drug showed up to 15% body weight reduction in a 13-week mid-stage trial, surpassing similar drugs from Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk. However, further validation is needed in Phase 3 trials.

The FDA is proposing to waive device registration fees for companies with annual revenues less than $1 million or those in bankruptcy. The move aims to alleviate financial burdens for smaller firms and those facing financial difficulties.

GSK's oral antibiotic, gepotidacin, has shown effectiveness in a late-stage gonorrhea trial, matching the current treatment regimen's success. It's also under consideration for urinary tract infections, with approvals sought later this year.

Zealand Pharma's stock soared after announcing positive Phase 2 trial results for survodutide, a liver disease treatment with potential in the obesity market.

Whilst Amsterdam has long been considered the global home of cannabis use, Western countries are slowly changing their stance on its use.

IQVIA has published a report "Global Trends in R&D 2024" exploring current developments and prospects in pharmaceutical research and development.

AstraZeneca's Tagrisso has received FDA approval for use with chemotherapy in treating advanced lung cancer with specific mutations.

AbbVie has announced Robert Michael, currently president and COO, will succeed Richard Gonzalez as CEO on July 1, moving into the role as executive chairman. The transition occurs as AbbVie faces significant market changes, notably biosimilar competition for its drug Humira.

Biotech firms are experiencing a fundraising boom in US equity markets, with a record $6.2 billion raised in January 2024 - the highest amount since February 2021.