Author: Kevin Grogan

Johnson & Johnson has unveiled three new research platforms focused on “redefining healthcare”, looking at disease prevention and interception, plus the role of the microbiome.

Shire has posted very healthy revenues for the fourth quarter, up 19% to $1.58 billion and highlighted its strongest-ever pipeline. Operating income jumped 28% to $655 million, driven by the attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder drug Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate), sales of which climbed 16% to $383 million. Its off-patent predecessor Adderall XR (mixed amphetamine salts) was up 26% to $103 million, although another ADHD drug, Intuniv (guanfacine), sank 44% to $48 million (+20%) ahead of patent expiries in December.

A meta-analysis carried out by Oxford University claims that hormone replacement therapy increases the risk of ovarian cancer.

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International has won the day with its bid of $400 million to buy bankrupt Dendreon Corp and its prostate cancer vaccine Provenge.

HIV/AIDS specialist ViiV Healthcare has again come out as having the best corporate reputation out of 37 pharmaceutical companies, according to a poll of 1,150 patient groups.