Lidak gets some good press. This is probably the reason for Lidak's recent spurt. Again, my hunch is that Lidakol is not as big a blockbuster as some statements portray it to be. However, it is so harmless that even marginal efficacy might convince the FDA to approve it. Still have to wonder about the Bristol Myers decision...
John. Thanks for pointing out the Yahoo message board. Can you post or link significant messages from there on to SI from time to time? This excerpt was taken from there:
This is the meaningful portion of the LA Times article mentioned in 233.
Progress on Oral Herpes -
People with recurrent oral herpes simplex virus, known as the
fever blister or cold sore, may soon have another option for
treatment. Lidak, a biotech company in La Jolla, has requested
clearance to market Lidakol. Lidakol is a topical cream that would
be the first treatment for herpes outbreaks that, when used early
enough, can abort further development of a recurrent herpes
episode before it reaches the blister stage. The drug would be
available by prescription only, although company officials say they
hope to move the product to over-the-counter status as soon as the
FDA permits.
As any herpes sufferer knows, anything to reduce the pain,
itching, tingling and burning is a welcome relief. About 80% of
adults are infected with herpes and about one-third of those who
are infected have recurrent outbreaks. There is no cure for herpes.
Over-the-counter products to relieve symptoms have traditionally
been disappointing. The approval of Lidakol would be good news
indeed. |
