Esperion's cholesterol pill, NEXLETOL, is now approved in Japan through its partner, Otsuka. This major global expansion (now U.S., Europe, Japan) secures Esperion large milestone payments and tiered royalties (15%-30%) on sales.
Verrica's drug Ycanth, which treats the common viral skin infection molluscum contagiosum, gained approval in Japan. This key approval immediately triggers a $10 million cash payment to Verrica, boosting their finances and supporting U.S. sales efforts.
Pharma giant Roche bought 89bio for up to $3.5B. The focus is pegozafermin, a promising drug for treating MASH (severe fatty liver disease). This deal positions Roche to transform care in metabolic diseases. Shares of 89bio surged 85% on Thursday.
Replimune’s cancer drug, RP1, hit a snag after an FDA meeting. Quick approval is now unlikely due to regulatory uncertainty, causing the stock to drop sharply (39% Thursday). The company is seeking a new way forward for the melanoma treatment.
Intellia completed enrollment for lonvo-z, a gene-editing drug for severe swelling (HAE). It aims to be the first one-time treatment for HAE, a rare genetic disease. Top study data is expected in early 2026, with a potential U.S. launch in early 2027. Intellia's shares surged on the news.
JNJ-1900 offers new hope for advanced melanoma patients whose cancer progressed after many treatments, including anti-PD-1. Injected into tumors, activated by radiation, then combined with anti-PD-1, it shows promising early safety and efficacy signals, potentially boosting the immune system.
