Dr. Jeffrey Weinberg

GLG News^SM Analyses by Jeffrey Weinberg(?)

Starpharma gets US patent for use of VivaGel for protection against STIs

September 29, 2009

Analysis of:Starpharma gets US patent for use of VivaGel for protection against STIs | www.pharmabiz.com

Starpharma's lead product, is a vaginal microbicide gel under development for the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including genital herpes and HIV infection. The VivaGel® product concept is designed to offer a safe, convenient and affordable means for women to protect themselves from infection with genital herpes and HIV during sex. Surveys show that there is substantial demand in North America and Europe for such a product with an estimated billion dollar market for STI prevention products in the developed world.

Stelara new Option for Psoriasis

September 26, 2009

Analysis of:Stelara Approved to Treat Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis in Adults | www.webmd.com

The FDA approved Stelara based on three studies of 2,266 patients who either got shots of Stelara or a placebo. Patients who got Stelara were more likely to achieve the studies' benchmark for reduction in psoriasis.In a news release, the FDA notes that because Stelara reduces the immune system's ability to fight infections, the product poses a risk of infection. "Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving the product and some of them have led to hospitalization. These infections were caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria that have spread throughout the body. There may also be an increased risk of developing cancer," the FDA states.

Issues with Ustekinumab

June 23, 2008

Analysis of:Positive news on J&J's ustekinumab diminished by safety concerns - analysts | www.tradingmarkets.com

On Tuesday, the FDA's Dermatologic and Ophthalmic Drug Advisory Panel voted unanimously to approve the use of the injectable drug for the treatment of plaque psoriasis, a severe skin disease. As the FDA usually follows the recommendations of its advisory panels when reviewing new drugs for approval, it is anticipated that the regulatory body will approve the drug in the fourth quarter, analysts said. But concerns over the drug's carcinogenic potential and the panel's recommendation that the drug be administered only by a physician and not directly by the patient could diminish enthusiasm over ustekinumab and lessen the drug's potential market share.

Ustekinumab

December 19, 2007

Analysis of:Centocor and Janssen-Cilag Submit Applications Requesting Approval of Ustekinumab in the U.S. and Europe for Treatment of Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis | www.jnj.com

This drug is four times yearly This will be attractive to MDs and patients It is highly efficaciuous