1. Microsoft researchers said they can identify some people with pancreatic cancer before they have been diagnosed based on their online searches using Bing, the technology giant’s search engine. Microsoft recently created a health and wellness division. (NYT)
2. Johnson & Johnson’s and GlaxoSmithKline’s experimental rheumatoid arthritis drug met the goals of a large Phase-III clinical trial. The drug, sirukumab, slowed joint damage when compared to the placebo. (Reuters)
3. An FDA advisory committee voted 14-3 in favor of approving an abuse-deterrent formulation of hydrocodone manufactured by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries. Still, a number of committee members raised concerns about potential abuse. (MedPage Today)
4. The FDA eliminated some “compassionate use” paperwork requirements for physicians requesting experimental drugs for patients with life-threatening illnesses. Doctors can now answer 11 questions instead of 15, a process that should take 45 minutes or fewer. (Kaiser Health News)
5. ICYMI: A federal judge said last week that Johnson & Johnson can launch new advertising campaigns about its reputation, despite a request from a woman suing the company over allegations that the medicine can cause liver damage that such campaigns could influence the jury. (Law360)
