"Biotech vaccines the new weapon against allergies"
(la Repubblica: page 19 – 10 April 2008)
The new biotech test to find out which molecules we are allergic to is available at the IDI in Rome, the Gaslini in Genoa and the Meyer in Florence. A first step to combat allergies, which affect the 20-25% of Italians. Still far away, however, are biotech vaccines which, starting from allergenic molecules, will be able to develop an ad personam solution. The hope of new drugs able to interfere in the reaction comes from an English research of the London School, where it was possible to inactivate, in mice, the P110 protein which plays a key role in allergy.
http://www.aboutpharma.it/notizia.asp?id=16356
USA: presidential candidates are divided on healthcare
(Les Echos online – April 10, 2008)
Republican presidential candidates want lower health care costs, while Democratic candidates want universal health coverage. According to the Republican McCain, treatments must be more affordable for citizens and to do this the following are necessary: greater competition on the pharmaceutical market, facilitation of imports and the use of generics. Democrat Hillary Clinton instead proposes mandatory universal coverage, funded by employers and the government. Barack Obama believes mandatory universal coverage is necessary only for children and proposes an optional program.
http://www.aboutpharma.it/notizia.asp?id=16363
France: unexpected change at the top of Novartis
(Les Echos online – April 10, 2008)
After only 15 months at the top of the French subsidiary of Novartis, President Jean-Christophe Tellier will be replaced, effective May 1st, by Patrice Zagamé, who currently leads the Spanish subsidiary.
http://www.aboutpharma.it/notizia.asp?id=16353
"Errors in medical records affect 320,000 patients a year"
(Il Sole 24 Ore: page 36, la Repubblica: page 19 – 10 April 2008)
The National Association of Hospital Cardiologists (ANMCO) has promoted a national campaign to raise awareness among hospital staff and prevent errors. According to ANMCO data, errors in medical records affect up to 320,000 patients a year, of which 12,000 sue hospitals. Pending compensation claims amount to 2.5 billion euros and the annual costs incurred to extend hospitalizations are 260 million euros. The most serious error is the transcription of the therapies.
http://www.aboutpharma.it/notizia.asp?id=16355
Probable cases of lung cancer linked to Exubera use
(The Wall Street Journal online, Les Echos, International Herald Tribune: p. 18 – April 10, 2008)
Pfizer said that during the trials, 6 diabetics taking Exubera (recombinant human insulin) developed lung cancer. The company, which withdrew the drug from the market in October 2007, explained that there are few cases to be able to say that the cancer is linked to the use of the drug.
http://www.aboutpharma.it/notizia.asp?id=16351
Takeda Launches $8.8Bn Tender Offer for Millenium
(Les Echos online, The Wall Street Journal online - April 10, 2008)
Takeda has launched an 8.8 billion dollar friendly takeover bid on the US Millenium Pharmaceuticals. The company's board of directors approves
