GLG News by Hematologists who Treat Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Approval will be base on the phase III INTEREST trial that showed in NSCLC that Iressa was "non-inferior" to standard chemotherapy after platinum therapy failure first line. Iressa was better tolerated and had an improved quality of life.

Gene mutation analysis can help refine therapy in acute leukemia and impact on results!!

Rituxan failed to improve various parameters and targets in a rather comprehensive study of patients with Lupus.

ZymoGenetic appears to have a biologic that will expedite lymphocytes apoptosis (destruction) when combined with Fludara and Rituxan- 2 standard agents in this rather common & occasional refractory condition.

This non erythropoietin (Epo) product will raise hemoglobin levels and decrease the need for transfusions.

Doubles survival BUT "comparator" arm is best supportive care. See http://investor.poniard.com/ReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=306218

Thalidomide literally started the improved outlook in MM along with, and followed by Velcade, Revlimid and Stem Cell transplants. To now have increased access in Europe should open up that market eventhough the other agents are in widespread use (I think)

A major insurer (Wellpoint) is using the guidelines of the FDA to restrict erythropoietin (Epo) use.

Xeloda has time after time demonstrated to be as good if not better than 5FU Xeloda continues to lag behind 5FU in the US Recent trial results are not likely to change things overnight

In MCRC FOLFOX which involves infusional 5FU has been the cornerstone of therapy. This study shows that an oral 5FU substitute, Xeloda, can replace the IV 5FU and expedide care and avoid cumbersome infusions.