1. Novo Nordisk’s attempts to woo payers did not pay off. The diabetes drugmaker conducted studies for its long-acting basal insulin, Tresiba, that were expressly designed to win preferred status on Express Scripts’ formulary. The PBM, however, was not convinced and gave the drug non-preferred status. (Bloomberg)
2. Deb Jorn, the head of Valeant’s dermatology and gastrointestinal products business, has resigned for personal reasons. The drugmaker said her departure is not related to the ad-hoc committee the company convened to address its previous ties to specialty pharmacy Philidor Rx Services.
3. A government watchdog said it’s too early to know whether the FDA’s pediatric priority review voucher program stimulates the development of new drugs that treat rare pediatric diseases. However, unidentified FDA officials told the Government Accountability Office that they have seen no evidence that the pediatric rare disease program is effective. (RAPS)
4. Donald Trump’s healthcare plan includes a proposal to allow Americans to reimport drugs from overseas, where they often cost less. The plan, posted on his website, notes that “drug companies provide a public service. Allowing consumer access to imported, safe, and dependable drugs from overseas will bring more options to consumers.” (Stat)
5. Klick Health announced the speaker lineup for its Muse event in New York City. One speaker is John Brownstein, Boston Children’s Hospital’s chief innovation officer.Brownstein, who helped spearhead Google Flu Trends and UberHealth, will be one of eight speakers. The original voice of Apple’s Siri, Susan Bennett, will also be presenting.
