Egyptian-American-British surgeon, professor, author and medical commentator
Pfizer has reported that its experimental drug sigvotatug vedotin did not improve survival in advanced non‑small cell lung cancer compared with standard therapy. The result setbacks expectations for a potential first‑in‑class antibody‑drug conjugate and follows Pfizer’s 2023 Seagen purchase.
A new weight‑loss pill version of semaglutide has launched in the UK for private prescriptions, offering an alternative to injections. The tablet requires strict dosing and a fasting routine and is not yet NHS‑funded. Several outlets warn about counterfeit pills as access broadens.
Eli Lilly has announced an all-cash deal to acquire AtaiBeckley for up to $2.8 billion upfront, with potential milestone payments. AtaiBeckley’s lead drug, a DMT-related nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, is in Phase 3, with initial results expected in 2029. The deal signals growing pharma interest in psychedelic therapies amid regulatory momentum.
The FDA has approved Lipfendra, Merck’s oral PCSK9 inhibitor, to lower LDL cholesterol in patients on statins. Trials show ~55-60% LDL reductions; the pill will be sold at about $315/month and must be taken on an empty stomach. Analysts see potential peak sales in the billions as injectable rivals face competition and access barriers.
Moderna has won FDA approval for its mRNA flu vaccine mFlusiva for adults 50–64 and accelerated approval for those 65 and older. The decision follows a contentious review earlier this year, a unanimous advisory panel recommendation in June and political disputes inside US health agencies over mRNA vaccines. Retail availability is expected in coming weeks.
This week has seen several medical research and regulatory developments: a mid‑stage trial has reported that Insilico Medicine's experimental drug rentosertib altered blood‑protein patterns that aging clocks read as three to four years younger; Stanford teams have published studies implanting human cortical organoids into mice and showing separate developmental origins for hindbrain neurons; and US regulators have named permanent directors for three FDA centers, stabilising leadership after months of upheaval.