> LAB International plans to spin off its contract research organization through an IPO. Report
> Merck has backed off its assertion that its analysis of a statistical test demonstrated that Vioxx caused damage only after 18 months of regular use. That has been a core part of its defense against an avalanche of lawsuits over Vioxx. Article
> Adolor says the FDA has accepted its response to the agency's approvable letter for Entereg. Report
> The FDA and the EMEA have agreed to joint briefing meetings on the submission of genomic data. Report
> Millennium Pharmaceuticals announced that preliminary results for its monoclonal antibody MLN1202 for atherosclerosis met its primary endpoint in a Phase II trial. Report
> In a head-to-head study, Teva says that a comparison of Copaxone and Biogen Idec's Avonex shows that Copaxone continues to work after patients no longer respond to Avonex. Israel's Teva said that Copaxone reduce annual relapse rates by an additional 57 percent over Avonex, adding that neurologic disability did not deteriorate in 86 percent of patients. Copaxone was originally approved by the FDA 10 years ago. Release
> Regeneron Pharmaceuticals says the FDA has given fast track status to its chronic inflammation therapy. Report
> Cubist Pharmaceuticals plans to sell $275 million in notes to retire debt and help commercialize Cubicin. Report
> Japan's Toyama has filed an application to market its garenoxacin antibiotic, T-3811, in Japan. Report
> Inspire Pharmaceuticals plans to file an INDA for its experimental seasonal allergic rhinitis. Report
> Bio-Bridge Science announced it has finished construction of a research and manufacturing facility in Beijing. Release
> DiscoveRx Corporation announced its new strategic vision to focus on expanding its development of a series of innovative biochemical and cell based assays. Release
And Finally… A new survey suggests that the rate of new HIV infections has begun to fall. Article