Shire Pharmaceuticals boosted by first Fosrenol approval

UK-based drugmaker Shire Pharmaceuticals has been boosted this week by the regulatory approval in Sweden of its kidney disease drug Fosrenol. This breakthrough should now pave the way for wider EU approval in the second half of 2004. With the upcoming patent expiry of Adderall putting future revenue at risk, Fosrenol has become a particularly significant drug for the future prospects of Shire.

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Schering-Plough/Centocor: wider Remicade indication

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Parallel importing: weak Euro means strong growth

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Meda: nasal steroid/antihistamine combination takes one step closer to market

The positive results of a second Phase III trial have added to the anticipation for Dymista, Meda's nasal steroid/antihistamine combination for allergic rhinitis. In line for first-to-market status, the combination will be a welcome addition to current treatment options.

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Cialis: standing ovation for new launch

The launch of Viagra, the world's first treatment for impotency and erectile dysfunction, was an instant success. Now, Lilly ICOS has officially launched Cialis, Viagra's first direct competition, and there is more on the way. In a growing market, Cialis' advantages over Viagra mean that it could reach blockbuster status.

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AstraZeneca: new software should speed drug discovery

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AstraZeneca: Arimidex is the new gold standard

The cancer drug showed outstanding results compared to the current gold standard, tamoxifen. Indeed, Arimidex could be the ideal aromatase inhibitor - and judging by these results, AstraZeneca's marketing power will ensure that the drug becomes a major cancer product.

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Alzheimer's disease: testing times for those at risk

Long-term studies have shown biomarkers to be effective in predicting those with mild cognitive impairment that will go on to develop Alzheimer's disease. Such a test could help companies developing new therapies for delaying or preventing the onset of Alzheimer's, and, by identifying the need for treatment early, could improve both drug uptake and treatment success rates.

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