TAIPEI, Taiwan – With a number of novel biologics looking good in late-stage multisite FDA- or EMA-authorized clinical trials, Taiwan’s biopharmaceutical sector is starting to fulfill its early promise, rewarding the faith of its backers – both government and private sector – after decades of slow progress. Local production capacity is now ramping up; at least seven companies have their own manufacturing facilities and more are on the way. Read More
HONG KONG – Two new candidate vaccines against the virulent A(H7N9) avian influenza virus currently circulating in eastern China have been shown capable of inducing immunity in 80 percent to 85 percent of recipients, data from the first two Phase I trials suggest. Read More
SHANGHAI – China’s biopharmaceutical industry owes its rapid rise to several factors, including unwavering government policy and financial support, a huge market with unmet needs and a talented local work force. Read More
• Bioalliance Pharma SA, of Paris, was issued a South Korean patent for Sitavig (acyclovir mucoadhesive tablet) for treating recurrent labial herpes in adults. The patent is based on the product’s original manufacturing process, which gives Sitavig its adhering property. Read More
• Astellas US LLC, a subsidiary of Astellas Pharma Inc., of Tokyo, appointed Jeffrey Winton senior vice president, chief communications officer. Winton will report to CEO Masao Yoshida. In the newly created position, Winton will have responsibility for corporate brand and reputation management in the Americas. Read More
• Wuxi Pharmatech Inc., of Shanghai, said its wholly owned subsidiary entered a supply arrangement with Pharmacyclics Inc., of Sunnyvale, Calif., for Imbruvica (ibrutinib), the mantle-cell lymphoma therapy approved this month. Terms were not disclosed. Read More
