Pharmaceuticals
AstraZeneca Cuts Prices on Select US Drugs After Trump Pressure
AstraZeneca has announced it will offer discounts of up to 70% on certain diabetes and asthma medications sold directly to cash-paying U.S. patients, responding to demands from President Donald Trump for lower drug prices. The move aligns these prices with those paid by Medicare and marks the company as the latest in the pharmaceutical industry to adjust amid ongoing regulatory scrutiny. This development underscores the intensifying focus on drug affordability in the United States under the current administration.
Candice Sehoma's activism from toilets to TB drugs
Candice Andisiwe Sehoma, a young South African activist with Médecins Sans Frontières, has dedicated her career to improving access to affordable medicines and basic sanitation. From building flush toilets in her Alexandra community to challenging pharmaceutical giants on tuberculosis and diabetes treatments, her work highlights ongoing healthcare inequities. Her efforts have secured significant price reductions for life-saving drugs in South Africa.
Lawsuits claim Tylenol use in pregnancy causes autism
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More than 100 lawsuits have been filed against acetaminophen manufacturers, including Johnson & Johnson, alleging that the drug's use during pregnancy increases the risk of autism and ADHD in children. These legal actions stem from scientific studies showing associations between prenatal exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders. The cases highlight growing concerns over the safety of a widely used pain reliever.
Pfizer stock rises after aligning with Trump on drug pricing
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Pfizer's shares climbed on Monday after the company expressed support for former President Donald Trump's proposal to allow imports of lower-priced drugs from Canada. This stance marks a shift for the pharmaceutical giant, which has historically opposed such measures. The move comes amid ongoing debates over U.S. drug costs.
FDA Grants Accelerated Approval for First Barth Syndrome Treatment
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted accelerated approval to Forzinity, the first treatment for Barth syndrome, a rare X-linked genetic disorder primarily affecting males. Developed by Stealth Biotherapeutics, the therapy targets mitochondrial dysfunction underlying the condition, offering new hope for patients with this life-threatening disease. This milestone follows years of advocacy and highlights progress in addressing ultra-rare disorders.