STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about GLP-1 drugs’ safety, Novartis nixing a deal, and more
A preliminary FDA evaluation did not find evidence that GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy cause suicidal thoughts or actions.
And so, another working week will soon come to a close. Not a moment too soon, yes? This is, you may recall, our treasured signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda is still shaping up, but we do expect to promenade extensively with the official mascots, catch up on our reading, and sample different types of food here and there. We also hope to hold another listening party with Mrs. Pharmalot, and the rotation will likely include this, this, this, this and this. And what about you? This is a fine time to enjoy the great outdoors — one can never get enough fresh air. This may be an opportunity to catch up on your own reading or take in a moving picture show or two. You could also reach out to someone special. Or simply plan the rest of your life. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you on Tuesday, since there is a holiday on this side of the pond and we will be taking an extended weekend respite. …
A preliminary evaluation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration did not find evidence that GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy cause suicidal thoughts or actions, STAT notes. The regulator has been reviewing reports of patients experiencing suicidal ideation while using this class of diabetes and obesity treatments, but because there was limited information provided and because other factors could be influencing the suicidal thoughts, the FDA determined that there was no clear link to the drugs, according to a post on its website. A review of trials and studies conducted on the medications also did not find a link to suicidal thoughts and actions.
Novartis backed away from its pursuit of Cytokinetics, putting a damper on the prospects of a deal for the promising heart-drug developer, The Wall Street Journal reports. Novartis had been closing in on a purchase with an agreement expected as soon as this week, but, after pursuing the biotech for several months, backed away sometime in the past day or two. Cytokinetics has been fielding takeover interest, and it is possible Novartis or another suitor could re-emerge or the company could pursue another type of deal. Cytokinetics is focused on muscle activators and inhibitors as potential treatments for people with debilitating diseases in which muscle performance is compromised.
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