BioPharmaDispatch Executive

U.S. President Donald Trump has declared “an end to global freeloading” in medicine prices, announcing a sweeping deal with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk that cuts the cost of several of the world’s most popular medicines for American patients.

Sanofi Australia has concluded its annual 'We Volunteer campaign', with staff across the country dedicating over 400 hours in October to support leading community and environmental organisations.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals (ASX:NEU) has reported record quarterly royalties from its commercial partner Acadia Pharmaceuticals, as sales of DAYBUE (trofinetide) continue to expand in the United States and abroad.

In a blunt public intervention that could have far-reaching consequences, including in Australia and New Zealand, the US Ambassador to the UK has warned that pharmaceutical companies may halt further investments or even shut down operations in the country unless it increases the prices it pays for medicines.

Pfizer recently increased its bid to around US$8.1 billion, and has effectively matched Novo Nordisk's US$10 billion in the past 24 hours. It has been reported that the Danish company has now also raised its offer again.

Between disputed claims, unconstitutional payments and the new global push for higher prices, the PBS rebate system sits on increasingly shaky ground. It has delivered access and spending control, and might be more important than ever, given global shifts by US frustration, but it has the appearance of a complete mess.

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia has announced the establishment of the First Nations Pharmacy Network, a landmark initiative aimed at strengthening culturally safe healthcare and improving access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Senior representatives from the Pharmacy Guild of Australia (Queensland Branch) have toured one of Australia’s newest and most advanced medicine distribution facilities, gaining a firsthand look at the operations that underpin the country’s pharmaceutical supply chain.

BioNSW has opened expressions of interest for the next BioInvest Catalyst Pitch and Networking Event, following the success of its previous sold-out gatherings, which have become key fixtures on New South Wales’ biotech investment calendar.

Australian cancer diagnostics company Rhythm Biosciences (ASX:RHY) has appointed Gavin Fox-Smith as its new Chair, following the retirement of Otto Buttula at the company’s Annual General Meeting.

Medibank has announced the acquisition of Better Medical, one of Australia’s largest general practice networks, in a $159 million deal that significantly expands the company’s presence in primary care.

The National Disability Insurance Agency has released its 2024–25 Annual Report, confirming record participant numbers and total scheme spending, alongside early signs that cost growth is beginning to moderate under ongoing reform efforts.