1. A new study of 27,500 patients found that Amgen’s PCSK9 inhibitor, Repatha, reduced the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Amgen said the drug met all of the main and secondary goals in the trial. (Xconomy)
2. A California lawmaker introduced a measure that would ban the use of drug coupons if there are less expensive versions of the same drug available. The measure claims that the coupons raise healthcare costs. (LAT)
3. Joining drugmakers like AbbVie and Allergan, Takeda Pharmaceuticals has announced plans to limit drug-price increases to single-digit percentages every year. (Reuters)
4. Biogen received a civil investigative demand from the federal government about its relationships with entities that provide clinical education and reimbursement support services. Last year the drugmaker received a number of federal inquiries about its pricing practices and patient-assistance programs.
5. ICYMI: The FDA granted approval to Teva Pharmaceutical Industries to the AirDuo RespiClick, which is expected to compete with GlaxoSmithKline’s Advair inhaler for asthma. Advair is also approved to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Teva’s branded product is expected to launch later this year. (Reuters)
Correction: An earlier version of this article inaccurately described the AirDuo RespiClick. It is a branded product, not a generic.
