Accentia: uncertain role for SinuNase

Accentia believes that it has evidence to support a theory that most, if not all, cases of chronic sinusitis are caused by fungal-induced inflammation. Preliminary analysis of samples taken as part of a Phase III trial for one of the company's developmental compounds suggest a link, but the role of the drug in disease management is less clear.

Published By Datamonitor

Anti-TNFs: FDA calls for additional warnings on blockbuster class

Due to heightened concerns over a side effect that can leave users prone to infection, the FDA has flexed its new powers to impose safety warnings on anti-TNF drugs. However, Datamonitor believes that while this action may raise awareness of the side effect, it will not affect drug uptake in the many patients with autoimmune diseases that find relief in these therapies.

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Antifungals: empiric therapy supported in newborns

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Antifungals: money spent is money saved

New antifungal drugs, such as Merck's Cancidas and Pfizer's Vfend, can help treat serious fungal disease in patients with poorly functioning immune systems. Although they are seemingly more expensive than their predecessors, they can potentially reduce the length of hospital stay and the need to treat adverse effects, thereby cutting the overall costs.

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Fungal Infections: Maximizing potential in a saturated market

Superficial fungal infections are found on the peripheral surfaces of the body such as the skin, hair and nails. In spite of posing no threat of mortality, these infections are very common and represent an attractive potential market. However, low presentation rates and frequent misdiagnosis mean that only a small proportion of this patient potential is currently being realized. <BR />

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Intermune: Niche markets and beyond

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Merck & Co: enters into R&D partnership with Ranbaxy

US-based Merck and India's biggest pharmaceutical company Ranbaxy have entered into an agreement to develop antibacterial and antifungal drugs. The deal highlights the trend of big pharmaceutical companies turning to India and China for R&D. As well as allowing Merck to develop its infectious disease portfolio, the agreement should provide valuable synergies for both companies.

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Mycamine - bolstering the antifungal armory

Fujisawa's Mycamine is the second product in the novel class of the echinocandins to be approved for use in the US. Mycamine has witnessed rapid uptake in its first market, Japan, generating $106 million of sales in 2004. Indeed, the staggered geographic launch of the drug, made necessary by delays in gaining approval in the US and EU, may actually contribute to its future commercial success.

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Pfizer: Diflucan's pediatric exclusivity delaying the inevitable

Pfizer's [PFZ.L] leading antifungal medicine Diflucan has had its six month marketing exclusivity upheld by the US District Court of Washington. This ruling only gives Diflucan short-term protection against genericization. In the longer term, Pfizer will have to rely on its new antifungal product, Vfend, to maintain market share.

Published By Datamonitor

Pfizer: leader of the pack in antifungals

Published By Datamonitor