Novartis India to Acquire Pfizer’s BP Drug Brands for ₹1,250 Crore

Medicus Pharma (MDCX) reported progress in its SkinJect program, confirming a 200-microgram patch dose for further studies. The company is focusing on Gorlin syndrome and seeking a partner for nodular basal cell carcinoma. A potential partnership could bring $25,000+ in reimbursement. Additionally, MDCX is collaborating with Pfizer on a CD228-targeted antibody-drug conjugate for melanoma and solid tumors, receiving $2M in funding.

Pfizer (PFE) raised its 2026 revenue guidance by $500M, while Zoetis (ZTS) cut its outlook, expecting a 1-3% decline. Pfizer's growth is driven by drugs like Eliquis and Padcev, while Zoetis faces market share pressures. Pfizer aims for high single-digit revenue CAGR from 2028-2033, with $9.7B in expected savings. Zoetis is investing in dermatology and adjusting prices to combat competition.

Priovant Therapeutics' brepocitinib received a PDUFA date of Aug. 29 for dermatomyositis approval. The drug showed efficacy in the VALOR study, targeting skin and muscle disease. Pfizer's dazukibart also shows promise in phase 2 trials, with a phase 3 study ongoing. Experts highlight the potential shift to modern, targeted therapies.

Pfizer (PFE) stock rose 14% in August, outperforming peers. Q2 revenue was $15B, up 3%, and adjusted EPS was $0.77, beating estimates. The company raised its full-year revenue guidance to $60.5B-$62.5B. Regulatory wins included EMA validation for a Lyme disease treatment and FDA approval for a COVID vaccine. Eliquis, its top drug, grew 19% but faces future generic competition.

Pfizer India will discontinue Minipress XL due to a global decision by Pfizer Inc. Novartis India acquires the brand and related IP for ₹1,250 crore, with Pfizer India receiving ₹131 crore. The deal may negatively impact Pfizer India's EBITDA and EPS by 3-5%, while Novartis expects EPS accretion within two years.

The FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2026-2027 season from Moderna, Pfizer, and Novavax-Sanofi, targeting the XFG subvariant. Pfizer's Comirnaty XFG, Moderna's SpikeVax and mNEXSPIKE, and Novavax-Sanofi's Nuvaxovid are approved for specific age groups and high-risk individuals. CDC recommendations from 2025-2026 remain in effect. Vaccines are available at pharmacies and healthcare centers, with coverage by insurers, Medicaid, and Medicare.