Diabetes epidemic spreads; developers join forces; Sirion wins NDA approval

A group of life science companies in Massachusetts has formed a consortium aimed at creating new research collaborations, planning to work with other groups around the world. Report

Sirion says the FDA has approved its NDA for Durezol, a topical steroid for post-operative ocular inflammation and pain. Release

GlaxoSmithKline won FDA approval for Kinrix, a vaccine that offers children protection against four diseases. Report

Pharming Group has acquired an exclusive sub-license to key patents and technology on recombinant fibrinogen from GTC Biotherapeutics. Release

> Sun pharmaceuticals wrote a second letter to Taro, citing major concerns about the sale of Taro's Irish facility. Report

> Moody's Investory Services gave a thumbs up to Takeda Pharmaceuticals, with an "Aa1" issuer rating. Report

> The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) gave a favorable nod to Sanofi's obesity drug, Acomplia, giving a boost to the company despite earlier challenges the drug faced. Acomplia report

> We've heard about drug-resistant bugs, but drug-resistant hypertension is likely a greater risk to Americans--and the pharmaceutical industry has its work cut out for it on this one. Report

And Finally... Developers in the diabetes field should note that the number of Americans suffering from the disease soared 15 percent in the last two years, jumping to 24 million Americans. Article