@FierceBiotech: 5 Innovative Michigan device/diagnostic companies. Fascinating tech profiled here by @FierceMedDev. Report | Follow @FierceBiotech
@JohnCFierce: Auxilium (Xiaflex) gets a sales guy to run the company. Punch up sales, work a deal? Maybe. But what biotech isn't in play these days? | Follow @JohnCFierce
@MaureenFierce: Report: Cancer vaccines, flu vaccines, and pneumococcal vaccines will experience the most growth in coming years. | Follow @MaureenFierce
@FierceMedDev: Abbott starts trial to evaluate the Absorb bioresorbable vascular scaffold versus metallic DES. Release | Follow @FierceMedDev
> Adrian Adams (photo), a well-known biotech exec who helmed Neurologix and Inspire Pharmaceuticals, has been brought in as the new CEO of Malvern, PA-based Auxilium Pharmaceuticals ($AUXL). He's replacing Armando Anido, who stepped down after "discussions with the company's board." Auxilium release
> Richard Franco, 70, has announced plans to retire from his position as CEO of Dara BioSciences. News
> The FDA has approved an 84-mg dose of Antares' oxybutynin gel for overactive bladder. Item
> Cubist has extended its offer to buy shares in Adolor. Report
> The FDA plans to host a public meeting Dec. 16 to review its user fee program for biosimilars. Story
Pharma News
FiercePharma: AstraZeneca's cutting 1,150 sales jobs, about 24% of U.S. organization. Release | Follow @FiercePharma
> AstraZeneca cuts 1,150 U.S. jobs, adds on in China. Item
> HHS chief smacks down FDA's Plan B decision. Report
Vaccines News
> Study: Afternoon vaccines may be better for babies. Report
> EU wants power to negotiate flu vaccine prices. Story
> Takeda unveils new vaccine business headed by Gates Foundation exec. News
> LigoCyte posts positive results from norovirus vaccine trial. Item
Manufacturing News
> Catalent to go disposable in new plant. News
> Analysts ponder takeover of ailing Hospira. Article
> CMO capacity expansions mirror market. Report
> FDA notes lack of Novartis exec response in 3-site warning. News
> Samsung, Biogen Idec team on biosimilars. Story
> Pfizer briefs NJ public on Superfund site cleanup. Item
And Finally... Researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Florida say two drugs--ixabepilone and sunitinib--never used in combination before in ovarian cancer triggered the destruction of 70% of the cancer cells resistant to commonly used chemotherapy agents. Report