Pharma and Biotech Daily: Stay Informed on the Latest Industry Developments

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma e Biotech world. A new healthcare AI accelerator program has been launched by Johns Hopkins, CareFirst, and Techstars, offering funding and guidance to startups working on AI tools. Medicare could face increased spending of $34 billion to $145 billion annually if all newly eligible patients received coverage for weight loss drug semaglutide. Pfizer has launched a direct-to-consumer service for migraine, COVID-19, and flu treatments similar to one by Eli Lilly. Johnson & Johnson plans to reform the 340B drug discount program, causing concern among hospitals and the government. Healthcare Dive provides insights into healthcare venture trends and offers resources on improving patient outcomes with data and AI technology. The publication covers news on various healthcare topics such as health IT, payer-provider partnerships, and value-based care. Healthcare Dive is operated by Industry Dive, providing in-depth journalism for decision-makers in competitive industries.On August 27th, Lilly introduced cheaper vials of Zepbound, a weight loss medicine, to compete with telehealth companies. Pfizer also launched a direct-to-consumer service for their migraine, COVID-19, and flu treatments, following in the footsteps of Eli Lilly. In other news, a startup backed by RA Capital raised $100 million for developing drugs for immune diseases, while UCB sold its neurology and allergy business in China. Additionally, Versant's Jerel Davis discussed build-to-buy deals and pharma investment strategies. The industry is moving towards more patient-centric commercialization strategies, with companies like Pfizer and Lilly breaking into the DTC market. This shift aims to give consumers easier access to treatments and improve supply chain efficiency. Pharmaceutical companies are exploring new partnerships and strategies to accelerate drug development and improve patient outcomes.Eli Lilly has reduced the price of its drug Zepbound by offering single-dose vials at a 50% discount through its online pharmacy LillyDirect. This move aims to expand the supply of Zepbound and make it more accessible to patients. In other news, a study suggests that Medicare coverage of Novo Nordisk's semaglutide for cardiovascular disease could cost $145 billion annually, depending on the number of eligible patients. Additionally, Cigna plans to remove AbbVie's Humira from its formularies, Oculis closes a phase III eye drop trial due to an administrative error, and Regeneron gains EU approval for a bispecific antibody for lymphoma. Furthermore, there have been lay-offs in the biopharma industry, and Massachusetts' biopharma job growth has slowed in 2023. Interested individuals can register for upcoming webinars and explore job opportunities in the biopharma field.