Novavax partners secure Nuvaxovid approvals for 2026-2027 season

FDA approved Protagonist Therapeutics' and Takeda's drug rusfertide (Mimrylo) for polycythemia vera. Mimrylo, a weekly injection, controls red blood cell overproduction. Takeda has not disclosed the price. Analysts forecast peak sales up to $2B. Protagonist's stock has nearly tripled in a year. Mimrylo is Takeda's second of three anticipated drug launches.

President Trump announced new voluntary drug pricing agreements with nine pharmaceutical companies, including Amgen, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Merck, to lower U.S. prescription drug prices. The deals, part of the TrumpRx platform, aim to align prices with those in other wealthy nations. Companies receive tariff relief in exchange for participation. Critics note limited impact on patient costs and lack of public contract details.

The FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines from Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Novavax (via Sanofi and Takeda) for the 2026–2027 season, targeting the XFG variant. The approvals are based on clinical and real-world data, with Pfizer and BioNTech's vaccine set to ship immediately. Over five billion doses of their vaccine have been distributed globally.

The FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Sanofi for high-risk adults, including older individuals and those with underlying health conditions. The vaccines target current coronavirus variants and are expected to be available soon. However, federal recommendations on who should receive the shots remain unclear due to legal issues, potentially affecting availability in some states. Medical experts emphasize the vaccines' effectiveness in preventing severe illne

Takeda Pharmaceutical (TAK) received FDA approval for Mimrylo (rusfertide), the first hepcidin-mimicking treatment for polycythemia vera, a rare blood cancer. The approval was supported by the VERIFY trial, showing 76.9% of patients on Mimrylo required no phlebotomies. Takeda projects peak global sales of $1B-$2B. Protagonist Therapeutics, which discovered the drug, is eligible for up to $875M in milestones and royalties.

The FDA approved Takeda Pharmaceutical's (TAK) Mimrylo for polycythemia vera, a rare blood disorder. Mimrylo is the first therapy mimicking hepcidin to regulate iron and red blood cell production. Takeda plans to share further trial findings and seek approvals outside the U.S. The approval does not impact its financial forecast for the fiscal year ending March 2027. TAK stock rose 2.53% in after-hours trading.