Watch the Pharma Flash for these stories and more including news on acquisitions, facility openings and other news about your industry.
Emmaus Life Sciences was granted a European patent for the use of L-glutamine in the treatment of diverticulosis, a condition characterized by small pouches in the colon. The patent provides exclusive rights to Emmaus for the use of L-glutamine in treating diverticulosis in Europe. L-glutamine is an amino acid that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the gastrointestinal tract.
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries reached a nationwide settlement agreement regarding its involvement in the opioid crisis in the United States. The agreement resolves claims made by state and local governments against Teva for its alleged role in fueling the opioid epidemic. As part of the settlement, Teva will pay $4.3 billion in cash and provide $23 billion worth of generic Suboxone, a medication used for opioid addiction treatment, over the next decade. The settlement aims to address the devastating impact of the opioid crisis and provide resources for prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts.
Alcami, a global provider of contract development and manufacturing services for the pharmaceutical industry, announced a CEO transition. The current CEO, Walter J. Kaczmarek III, will step down from his role, and David Spaight, the current President of Alcami, will assume the position of CEO. Kaczmarek will continue to serve as an advisor to the company during the transition. The CEO transition is part of Alcami's ongoing strategic initiatives aimed at furthering its growth and strengthening its position in the contract development and manufacturing market.
Croda, a specialty chemical manufacturer, is constructing a new excipient manufacturing facility in Lamar, Pennsylvania. The facility will focus on producing excipients, key ingredients used in the formulation of pharmaceuticals and drug products. The investment in the new facility will help Croda commitment to meet the growing demand for high-quality excipients in the pharmaceutical industry. The Lamar facility will feature state-of-the-art equipment and technologies to ensure efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes. This expansion will enhance Croda's capabilities and support its mission to provide innovative solutions for the pharmaceutical sector.
Merck's antiviral drug, PREVYMIS (letermovir), has received approval from the FDA for a new indication. The drug is now indicated for the prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and disease in pediatric patients aged one month to 16 years who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The FDA approval was based on clinical trials demonstrating the safety and efficacy of PREVYMIS in this patient population. This expanded indication provides healthcare providers with an important tool to help prevent CMV infections in pediatric patients undergoing stem cell transplantation.