"GreeneChip": new tool with broad use

A novel diagnostic tool, able to simultaneously screen for up to 30,000 different viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites is currently being investigated by researchers at New York's Columbia University. Although its widespread availability requires more work, such a tool could help physicians give a more accurate diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.

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"The pill" goes natural with potential new bestseller

Teva has announced the EU approval of NOMAC/E2, the first monophasic contraceptive with natural estrogen. The perceived increased safety of natural estrogen and a global launch will drive sales of the product, making it a leading hormonal contraceptive brand. To maximize its potential, however, Teva needs to show improved safety over synthetic estrogen contraceptives in post-marketing studies.

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'Conservative' pharmaceutical industry slow to take advantage of online marketing opportunities

While the internet has altered the landscape in the retail sector and revolutionized the airline industry, pharmaceutical companies have been slow to take advantage of the marketing opportunities offered by the medium. With existing sales and marketing strategies widely considered unsustainable, the industry needs to evolve and engage with its customers online, or it risks being left behind.

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'Female Viagra' tag unjustified for Boehringer Ingelheim drug

With the release of positive Phase III clinical trial data, Boehringer Ingelheim's flibanserin has been found to offer significant benefit to sufferers of hypoactive sexual desire disorder. However, lower public acceptance of the disorder and uncertain demand will restrict the drug's commercial potential.

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'Silent killer' osteoporosis quietly on the increase

Osteoporosis currently affects 30 million people (predominantly women) worldwide and if left untreated, can be fatal. Historically hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been used to help prevent the bone loss that leads to osteoporosis. However recent negative study results have lead to a rapid decline in its use, which may lead to a significant increase in the prevalence of osteoporosis.

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A battle looms in mild cognitive impairment...

More than a tenth of the world's elderly people have mild cognitive impairment, representing a significant potential market. Worse, these sufferers have a 50% chance developing Alzheimer's. Although there is no approved treatment available yet, several different therapies are in development. The fight for dominance in this potentially lucrative market is about to begin - but who will win out?

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A blockbuster is born in Johnson & Johnson's Nucynta ER

Johnson & Johnson has received FDA approval for Nucynta ER in moderate to severe chronic pain. Backed by clinical trial data showing comparable efficacy and superior tolerability to the market-leading opioid, OxyContin, Nucynta ER will be a commercial success for Johnson & Johnson. Additional benefits in neuropathic pain will further strengthen the clinical argument for its use.

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A changing European pharmaceuticals market

The European pharmaceuticals market is set for significant change this year. The accession of an additional ten member states into the EU is likely to affect the market as a whole with a particular impact on regulations, pricing, and parallel trade. These factors added to a growing generics field should present industry access to relatively untapped markets with long-term revenue potential.

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A European home for orphan drugs

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A Mars a day to keep the doctor away?

Mars has unveiled a new product range that claims to satisfy chocolate lovers' cravings while also being good for the heart. With obesity on the rise, and following clampdowns on junk food in US and European schools, entering the health foods market could be a good move. However, Mars is not the only one to realize this, meaning it could face stiff competition.

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