Salix shares rise on new data, deals

Shares of Raleigh, NC-based Salix Pharmaceuticals surged about 20 percent this morning after the company announced a trifecta of upbeat developments. New trial data are supporting two of its therapies while Salix also announced a co-promotion deal on an existing drug and the acquisition of another therapy.

A mid-stage study of Xifaxan demonstrated efficacy in treating patients suffering from diarrhea-associated irritable bowel syndrome. And a late-stage study of its granulated mesalamine product demonstrated efficacy in keeping ulcerative colitis in remission. Salix inked a co-promotion pact with Eisai for Colazal.

- here's the report from the Triangle Business Journal