Biotech Valuation Message Board

STOCKTALK

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor. We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community. If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.

Biotech / Medical : Biotech Valuation

CRSP 53.82

+2.7%

3:54 PM EST

Public Reply Prvt Reply Mark as Last Read File

Previous 10 Next 10 Previous Next

To: Ian@SI who wrote (3757)	5/11/2001 10:49:17 AM
From: Biomaven	Read Replies (2) of 52153

Ian, It's a long way from the genome to a wonder-drug. As Miljenko pointed out, this was a very unusual cancer caused by a very specific genetic defect. I believe virtually all common cancers are much more complex and will likely not succumb to a single, narrowly focused drug. However, lets see what MLNM in particular can come up with. Recall also that Novartis elected to merge their non-Gleevec kinase program with that of VRTX, so maybe we'll see something exciting from them, although I don't think that cancer is their main focus. It's also worth pointing out that the economics of developing a drug like Gleevec are pretty marginal. With only 5k patients, even at the reported $20-25K a year price this makes it only a $100m drug. Novartis was definitely being a good citizen here, particularly as they built production capacity very early. Incidentally, the ABC news report made an interesting point - this drug will definitely increase the pressure on Medicare to cover oral prescription drugs. A few dying patients and Congress will likely yield. Peter

Report TOU Violation

Share This Post

Public Reply Prvt Reply Mark as Last Read File

Previous 10 Next 10 Previous Next