7 days ago
On August 5, Protagonist Therapeutics (NASDAQ:PTGX) reported second-quarter 2026 results that flipped the company from red ink to a $162.8 million profit, or $2.29 per diluted share, compared with a $34.8 million loss a year earlier. The swing came as the company banked payments tied to two drugs moving from the lab bench to the pharmacy counter: ICOTYDE, an oral psoriasis treatment, and rusfertide, an injectable now awaiting an FDA decision. Cash and marketable securities climbed to $849.5 million. Here's what's fueling the optimism, and what could complicate it.
The quarter marked the first full three months of commercial sales for ICOTYDE, which won FDA approval on March 18 for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in patients 12 and older weighing at least 40 kg. That approval triggered a $50 million milestone payment and made ICOTYDE, according to the company, the first and only FDA-approved targeted oral peptide for the condition. Protagonist can still collect up to $580 million more in milestones from partner Johnson & Johnson, plus royalties that average around 7.25 percent at $4 billion in annual sales.
Rusfertide carries even more weight. Its new drug application sits under Priority Review with a PDUFA goal date in August, backed by Breakthrough Therapy, Orphan Drug, and Fast Track designations for polycythemia vera. Partner Takeda already paid Protagonist $200 million on an opt-out election in April, with another $200 million and a $75 million approval milestone still due, on top of royalties that can reach 29 percent of sales above $1.5 billion. Behind both drugs, PN-881, an oral IL-17 antagonist, is heading into a Phase 2b psoriasis program in early 2027 after Phase 1 data showed drug levels beating their pharmacokinetic targets, and a Phase 1 study just began for PN-477sc, an injectable obesity peptide.
Look closer at that $213.5 million in license and collaboration revenue, and $192.4 million of it traces to the proportional recognition of Takeda's initial opt-out payment, not repeatable product sales. A year earlier, the same line item was just $5.5 million, so the growth reflects a single deal event more than an operating business scaling up. And that opt-out itself cuts both ways: Protagonist gave up its right to develop and commercialize rusfertide on its own, trading full ownership for royalties and milestones that depend on Takeda's execution rather than Protagonist's.
Spending is also set to climb. Management expects research and development costs to increase significantly in the second half of 2026 versus the first half, driven by the new PN-881 Phase 2b program, manufacturing investments, and added headcount. General and administrative costs are rising too, largely on stock-based compensation. And rusfertide's fate still hinges on an FDA decision that hasn't happened yet, priority review or not.
#protagonist
The quarter marked the first full three months of commercial sales for ICOTYDE, which won FDA approval on March 18 for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in patients 12 and older weighing at least 40 kg. That approval triggered a $50 million milestone payment and made ICOTYDE, according to the company, the first and only FDA-approved targeted oral peptide for the condition. Protagonist can still collect up to $580 million more in milestones from partner Johnson & Johnson, plus royalties that average around 7.25 percent at $4 billion in annual sales.
Rusfertide carries even more weight. Its new drug application sits under Priority Review with a PDUFA goal date in August, backed by Breakthrough Therapy, Orphan Drug, and Fast Track designations for polycythemia vera. Partner Takeda already paid Protagonist $200 million on an opt-out election in April, with another $200 million and a $75 million approval milestone still due, on top of royalties that can reach 29 percent of sales above $1.5 billion. Behind both drugs, PN-881, an oral IL-17 antagonist, is heading into a Phase 2b psoriasis program in early 2027 after Phase 1 data showed drug levels beating their pharmacokinetic targets, and a Phase 1 study just began for PN-477sc, an injectable obesity peptide.
Look closer at that $213.5 million in license and collaboration revenue, and $192.4 million of it traces to the proportional recognition of Takeda's initial opt-out payment, not repeatable product sales. A year earlier, the same line item was just $5.5 million, so the growth reflects a single deal event more than an operating business scaling up. And that opt-out itself cuts both ways: Protagonist gave up its right to develop and commercialize rusfertide on its own, trading full ownership for royalties and milestones that depend on Takeda's execution rather than Protagonist's.
Spending is also set to climb. Management expects research and development costs to increase significantly in the second half of 2026 versus the first half, driven by the new PN-881 Phase 2b program, manufacturing investments, and added headcount. General and administrative costs are rising too, largely on stock-based compensation. And rusfertide's fate still hinges on an FDA decision that hasn't happened yet, priority review or not.
#protagonist
9 days ago
Over the past five years, Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) stock managed a total return of 376%. If the stock managed a repeat over the next five years, share prices would top $5,500. Much of its current performance boost is thanks to enthusiasm over its GLP-1 offerings.
Are the same factors that led to the healthcare company's sharp rise likely to recur? The simple answer is no. While its metabolic GLP-1 weight-loss therapies helped spike revenue, it's not likely to happen again. Still, there are reasons to believe the pharmaceutical stock could double in value over the next five years, making a $5,000 investment in Eli Lilly stock worth more than $10,000 in five years. Here's why.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Eli Lilly, through tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes and Zepbound for chronic weight management, is still a leader in the GLP-1 **** e. Tirzepatide is showing to be an incredibly versatile incretin-based peptide drug.
Excess weight is tied to many health problems, and tirzepatide could expand to adjacent indications. It has already been approved to treat obstructive sleep apnea, and on Aug. 28, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Mounjaro to lower the risk of major adverse cardiovascular (CV) events, including cardiovascular death, non-fatal heart attack, or non-fatal stroke in adults with type 2 diabetes who are at high risk.
#Stock #signal #weight #total
Are the same factors that led to the healthcare company's sharp rise likely to recur? The simple answer is no. While its metabolic GLP-1 weight-loss therapies helped spike revenue, it's not likely to happen again. Still, there are reasons to believe the pharmaceutical stock could double in value over the next five years, making a $5,000 investment in Eli Lilly stock worth more than $10,000 in five years. Here's why.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Eli Lilly, through tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes and Zepbound for chronic weight management, is still a leader in the GLP-1 **** e. Tirzepatide is showing to be an incredibly versatile incretin-based peptide drug.
Excess weight is tied to many health problems, and tirzepatide could expand to adjacent indications. It has already been approved to treat obstructive sleep apnea, and on Aug. 28, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Mounjaro to lower the risk of major adverse cardiovascular (CV) events, including cardiovascular death, non-fatal heart attack, or non-fatal stroke in adults with type 2 diabetes who are at high risk.
#Stock #signal #weight #total
9 days ago
Kris Jenner couldn't be happier after adding peptides to her beauty routine.
The Keeping Up With the Kardashians matriarch, who recently turned 70, has revealed that she's been using peptides to help keep her hair looking healthy and full—more than a year after getting a reported $100,000 facelift.
Jenner has been using Omi's Hair Growth Peptides, a product she's not just a fan of but also has a financial stake in.
Earlier this year, she opened up about the product in a sponsored Instagram Story, saying she initially started taking the peptides in gummy form.
"I started taking [them] as a gummy form, two a day, and it pretty much changed my life," she said.
#hair #using #product
The Keeping Up With the Kardashians matriarch, who recently turned 70, has revealed that she's been using peptides to help keep her hair looking healthy and full—more than a year after getting a reported $100,000 facelift.
Jenner has been using Omi's Hair Growth Peptides, a product she's not just a fan of but also has a financial stake in.
Earlier this year, she opened up about the product in a sponsored Instagram Story, saying she initially started taking the peptides in gummy form.
"I started taking [them] as a gummy form, two a day, and it pretty much changed my life," she said.
#hair #using #product
20 days ago
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's full autopsy report on late Memphis Grizzlies veteran forward and former Phoenix Desert Vista standout Brandon Clarke was released Monday, Aug. 24. Clarke had cocaine, heroin, oxycodone, and multiple other medications "within therapeutic levels," per the report obtained by USA Today Sports.
Clarke's roommate told officials that Clarke had a "history of drug use" and underwent multiple rehabilitation stints for drug addiction, according to the report's synopsis.
Clarke died at his San Fernando Valley residence on May 11. He was 29 years old. The cause of death was an accidental overdose from the "effects of heroin and cocaine" in Clarke's system, which matched the medical examiner's initial statement about Clarke on Aug. 7.
Los Angeles Fire Department officials listed in the incident's early reports that he was found unresponsive and declared dead at the scene.
Drug paraphernalia was found at Clarke's home, according to the synopsis report. That included "vape devices, cannabis products, prescription medications, injectable peptides, syringes, a box of Narcan, blister packets of medications, vitamins and other medical evidence." Also, there was a plate with an "unknown white powdery substance and a hotel keycard" found in the kitchen.
#medical #drug
Clarke's roommate told officials that Clarke had a "history of drug use" and underwent multiple rehabilitation stints for drug addiction, according to the report's synopsis.
Clarke died at his San Fernando Valley residence on May 11. He was 29 years old. The cause of death was an accidental overdose from the "effects of heroin and cocaine" in Clarke's system, which matched the medical examiner's initial statement about Clarke on Aug. 7.
Los Angeles Fire Department officials listed in the incident's early reports that he was found unresponsive and declared dead at the scene.
Drug paraphernalia was found at Clarke's home, according to the synopsis report. That included "vape devices, cannabis products, prescription medications, injectable peptides, syringes, a box of Narcan, blister packets of medications, vitamins and other medical evidence." Also, there was a plate with an "unknown white powdery substance and a hotel keycard" found in the kitchen.
#medical #drug
24 days ago
LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) — South African cyclist S'annara Grove has been provisionally suspended because of a failed doping test, the International Testing Agency said Friday.
Grove's sample collected on July 28 at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow returned an "adverse ****** ytical finding" for ipamorelin, the ITA said.
Ipamorelin, prohibited in and out of competition, "is a synthetic peptide used to stimulate the body's natural production of growth hormone," the testing agency said.
The ITA said Grove, who didn't medal in her track cycling events at the Commonwealth Games, has been informed of the case and has the right to challenge the provisional suspension.
The 32-year-old Grove rides professionally for the Smurfit Westrock team and is listed as a competitor in the current Tour of Britain. The third stage of the race was Friday.
#Friday #games #testing #south
Grove's sample collected on July 28 at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow returned an "adverse ****** ytical finding" for ipamorelin, the ITA said.
Ipamorelin, prohibited in and out of competition, "is a synthetic peptide used to stimulate the body's natural production of growth hormone," the testing agency said.
The ITA said Grove, who didn't medal in her track cycling events at the Commonwealth Games, has been informed of the case and has the right to challenge the provisional suspension.
The 32-year-old Grove rides professionally for the Smurfit Westrock team and is listed as a competitor in the current Tour of Britain. The third stage of the race was Friday.
#Friday #games #testing #south
28 days ago
Fulcrum Therapeutics and Slate Medicines have signed a definitive agreement to merge in an all-stock transaction backed by a $245m private placement financing from a syndicate of healthcare investors.
The combined organisation, which will operate as Slate Medicines, is expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the "SLTE" ticker symbol.
Following completion of the merger, the new entity will focus on developing Slate's pipeline of migraine treatments, with SLTE-1009 as its lead candidate.
This clinical-stage subcutaneous anti- pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide / vasoactive intestinal peptide (PACAP/VIP) monoclonal antibody is intended for the prevention of migraine and other headache disorders.
The financing is expected to support operations through 2029, enabling progress of SLTE-1009 through Phase I studies in healthy volunteers and a Phase II dose-range finding study in patients with migraine.
#phase #expected #peptide #therapeutics
The combined organisation, which will operate as Slate Medicines, is expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the "SLTE" ticker symbol.
Following completion of the merger, the new entity will focus on developing Slate's pipeline of migraine treatments, with SLTE-1009 as its lead candidate.
This clinical-stage subcutaneous anti- pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide / vasoactive intestinal peptide (PACAP/VIP) monoclonal antibody is intended for the prevention of migraine and other headache disorders.
The financing is expected to support operations through 2029, enabling progress of SLTE-1009 through Phase I studies in healthy volunteers and a Phase II dose-range finding study in patients with migraine.
#phase #expected #peptide #therapeutics
29 days ago
Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) cleared a notable regulatory hurdle on August 10, when Britain's drug regulator authorized the company's oral GLP-1 drug orforglipron, becoming the first country in Europe to approve the pill. Shares of LLY increased more than 2% in response to the announcement, a modest but insightful reaction for a company whose weight-loss franchise has become the single most important driver of its market value.
The UK's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency approved orforglipron, offered under the brand name Foundayo, for weight loss and maintenance in obese adults, as well as select overweight individuals with at least one weight-related health condition. The approval also addresses increasing blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
What sets Foundayo apart from Lilly's other weight-loss medications, as well as the majority of the GLP-1 category in general, is the format. Unlike injectable drugs like Lilly's Zepbound or Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO)'s Ozempic, Foundayo is a small, non-peptide GLP-1 receptor agonist that is taken as a single daily tablet. It can also be taken at any time with no food or water restrictions, making it a far more convenient regimen than some oral peptide alternatives that require fasting windows around dosing.
The clinical data that supports the approval is strong. In the ATTAIN-1 trial, which tracked 3,127 individuals with obesity for 72 weeks, participants on the 36 mg dose lost an average of 11.2% of their body weight, as opposed to 2.1% on placebo, and more than half of those on that dose lost at least 10%.
The authorization is crucial, but it is not the final step. Foundayo is not currently available through the NHS in the UK, and the drug's journey to that larger market is through the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, which is completing its own cost-effectiveness study, with a decision expected on November 18. Until NICE decides, UK patients seeking the medicine will have to pay out of pocket or get it privately, a scenario that is already playing out with competing products in the category.
#foundayo #loss #NYSE #regulatory
The UK's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency approved orforglipron, offered under the brand name Foundayo, for weight loss and maintenance in obese adults, as well as select overweight individuals with at least one weight-related health condition. The approval also addresses increasing blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
What sets Foundayo apart from Lilly's other weight-loss medications, as well as the majority of the GLP-1 category in general, is the format. Unlike injectable drugs like Lilly's Zepbound or Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO)'s Ozempic, Foundayo is a small, non-peptide GLP-1 receptor agonist that is taken as a single daily tablet. It can also be taken at any time with no food or water restrictions, making it a far more convenient regimen than some oral peptide alternatives that require fasting windows around dosing.
The clinical data that supports the approval is strong. In the ATTAIN-1 trial, which tracked 3,127 individuals with obesity for 72 weeks, participants on the 36 mg dose lost an average of 11.2% of their body weight, as opposed to 2.1% on placebo, and more than half of those on that dose lost at least 10%.
The authorization is crucial, but it is not the final step. Foundayo is not currently available through the NHS in the UK, and the drug's journey to that larger market is through the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, which is completing its own cost-effectiveness study, with a decision expected on November 18. Until NICE decides, UK patients seeking the medicine will have to pay out of pocket or get it privately, a scenario that is already playing out with competing products in the category.
#foundayo #loss #NYSE #regulatory
1 month ago
Hims & Hers Health is planning to sell compounded peptides, the company said in a Monday earnings call.
The company's CEO, Andrew Dudum, said in the earnings call that it was "currently developing a best-in-class peptides experience, including U.S. manufactured products, clinical-led guidance, and ongoing blood testing."
Dudum said in the call that the company had begun testing for the ingredients in some peptides, adding that "this will ensure we can bring them to the market with a safe, verified supply chain if the [Food and Drug Administration (FDA)] decides to allow them for compounding."
Injectable peptides, which are combinations of amino acids, recently became popular among many health-conscious Americans, partially due to enthusiasm from Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy.
Kennedy has said he is "a big fan of peptides" and has vowed action to widen their accessibility.
#Peptides #Health #call #hims
The company's CEO, Andrew Dudum, said in the earnings call that it was "currently developing a best-in-class peptides experience, including U.S. manufactured products, clinical-led guidance, and ongoing blood testing."
Dudum said in the call that the company had begun testing for the ingredients in some peptides, adding that "this will ensure we can bring them to the market with a safe, verified supply chain if the [Food and Drug Administration (FDA)] decides to allow them for compounding."
Injectable peptides, which are combinations of amino acids, recently became popular among many health-conscious Americans, partially due to enthusiasm from Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy.
Kennedy has said he is "a big fan of peptides" and has vowed action to widen their accessibility.
#Peptides #Health #call #hims
1 month ago
After a year at the helm, Novo Nordisk's CEO Maziar Mike Doustdar's task of closing the gap to pacesetter Eli Lilly doesn't look to be getting any easier.
Doustdar joined Novo at the height of spiralling erosion to rivals in the obesity and type 2 diabetes market segments. While the Danish drugmaker has since gained approval for oral Wegovy, a drug that set a record-breaking pace for a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) at launch, other pipeline products have had mixed clinical results. Earlier this week, cardiovascular disease drug ziltivekimab failed a Phase III trial, while CagriSema fell short in a non-inferiority trial comparing it to Lilly's tirzepatide.
Coupled with ongoing sales decline, dealmaking presents an obvious avenue in which to boost pipeline offerings. Novo has already said it is actively targeting bolt-on acquisitions, with Doustdar reiterating during the Q2 earnings call that large-scale, transformative deals are still a way off.
"I'm very proud of our internal R&D and pipeline, but no company has a monopoly on good ideas. I've also said we are in every data room to try and see who else has a better idea, who else can give us ******* ets that we can bolt on, and complement what [our internal R&D teams] are doing," Doustdar said.
"I'm a person who never starts with a no to one day [being able to conduct transformative M&A], but you have to be in a very different situation than Novo Nordisk is in today," he added.
#pipeline
Doustdar joined Novo at the height of spiralling erosion to rivals in the obesity and type 2 diabetes market segments. While the Danish drugmaker has since gained approval for oral Wegovy, a drug that set a record-breaking pace for a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) at launch, other pipeline products have had mixed clinical results. Earlier this week, cardiovascular disease drug ziltivekimab failed a Phase III trial, while CagriSema fell short in a non-inferiority trial comparing it to Lilly's tirzepatide.
Coupled with ongoing sales decline, dealmaking presents an obvious avenue in which to boost pipeline offerings. Novo has already said it is actively targeting bolt-on acquisitions, with Doustdar reiterating during the Q2 earnings call that large-scale, transformative deals are still a way off.
"I'm very proud of our internal R&D and pipeline, but no company has a monopoly on good ideas. I've also said we are in every data room to try and see who else has a better idea, who else can give us ******* ets that we can bolt on, and complement what [our internal R&D teams] are doing," Doustdar said.
"I'm a person who never starts with a no to one day [being able to conduct transformative M&A], but you have to be in a very different situation than Novo Nordisk is in today," he added.
#pipeline
1 month ago
(NewsNation) — ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a fatal neurological disease with no cure. For people who carry genetic mutations linked to the disease, one of the biggest challenges is not knowing when symptoms might begin.
New research funded by the National Institutes of Health could help change that.
Researchers have developed a blood test that may predict when an at-risk person is likely to develop ALS symptoms, providing a potential window for preventive treatment before irreversible nerve damage occurs.
The study identified protein markers in the blood that can help predict the onset of symptoms, a transition known as phenoconversion.
Dr. Anthony Youn says popular peptides 'aren't studied enough' in humans
#Help #blood #national #researchers
New research funded by the National Institutes of Health could help change that.
Researchers have developed a blood test that may predict when an at-risk person is likely to develop ALS symptoms, providing a potential window for preventive treatment before irreversible nerve damage occurs.
The study identified protein markers in the blood that can help predict the onset of symptoms, a transition known as phenoconversion.
Dr. Anthony Youn says popular peptides 'aren't studied enough' in humans
#Help #blood #national #researchers
2 months ago
South Korean contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) Samsung Biologics has been on a steep upward growth trajectory since receiving its first licence to produce biologic drug substances in 2015.
That FDA approval was followed in 2016 by a Certificate of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) compliance from the EMA for biologics drug substance and drug product, and the company now has over 450 approvals from regulators around the world. The expansion of Samsung's manufacturing licences is mirrored in the growth of its performance, which saw it achieve revenues of $3.1bn (Won4,557bn) in 2025, a 30% increase from the previous year.
Until now, that work has been centred on the Songdo Bio Cluster in the South Korean city of Incheon, where Samsung will have three campuses, having recently acquired land for Bio Campus III, which will be set aside for future modalities including work on cell and gene therapies and vaccines. The cluster will also be the location for Samsung's forthcoming open innovation centre, which is due to open in 2027 and is being built in partnership with Lilly Gateway Labs. But a key part of the company's plans for continued growth involves adding capacity outside its home country.
On 20 July 2026, Samsung unveiled its plans for the $1.8bn (SFr1.46bn) acquisition of PolyPeptide Group, which specialises in peptide-based active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and produces one third of the commercially approved peptides in the world. In addition to expanding Samsung's capabilities beyond antibodies and ADCs and into peptide therapeutics, including GLP-1s, its deal with the Swiss CDMO also comes with a network of sites across Sweden, Belgium, France, the US, and India, together with a corporate office in Switzerland and an innovation centre in Strasbourg, France.
The PolyPeptide deal is expected to close before the end of 2026, when it will build on Samsung's first major M&A transaction of the year. That saw the South Korean CDMO complete its $280M acquisition of GSK's Rockville, MD, US facility on March 31, 2026. The agreement gave Samsung its first US manufacturing presence and an additional 60,000L of drug substance capacity, increasing its global capacity to 845,000L.
#south
That FDA approval was followed in 2016 by a Certificate of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) compliance from the EMA for biologics drug substance and drug product, and the company now has over 450 approvals from regulators around the world. The expansion of Samsung's manufacturing licences is mirrored in the growth of its performance, which saw it achieve revenues of $3.1bn (Won4,557bn) in 2025, a 30% increase from the previous year.
Until now, that work has been centred on the Songdo Bio Cluster in the South Korean city of Incheon, where Samsung will have three campuses, having recently acquired land for Bio Campus III, which will be set aside for future modalities including work on cell and gene therapies and vaccines. The cluster will also be the location for Samsung's forthcoming open innovation centre, which is due to open in 2027 and is being built in partnership with Lilly Gateway Labs. But a key part of the company's plans for continued growth involves adding capacity outside its home country.
On 20 July 2026, Samsung unveiled its plans for the $1.8bn (SFr1.46bn) acquisition of PolyPeptide Group, which specialises in peptide-based active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and produces one third of the commercially approved peptides in the world. In addition to expanding Samsung's capabilities beyond antibodies and ADCs and into peptide therapeutics, including GLP-1s, its deal with the Swiss CDMO also comes with a network of sites across Sweden, Belgium, France, the US, and India, together with a corporate office in Switzerland and an innovation centre in Strasbourg, France.
The PolyPeptide deal is expected to close before the end of 2026, when it will build on Samsung's first major M&A transaction of the year. That saw the South Korean CDMO complete its $280M acquisition of GSK's Rockville, MD, US facility on March 31, 2026. The agreement gave Samsung its first US manufacturing presence and an additional 60,000L of drug substance capacity, increasing its global capacity to 845,000L.
#south
2 months ago
For the first time in the program's history, Medicare is covering weight-loss drugs, and the price tag looks almost too good to pass up.
Beginning July 1, eligible Part D enrollees can access medications including Wegovy, Foundayo, and the Zepbound KwikPen for a flat $50 monthly copay through a temporary federal demonstration called the Medicare GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) Bridge.
That is a massive discount compared to the retail price of these drugs, which can exceed $1,000 per month without insurance coverage.
It arrives at a moment when roughly 56% of GLP-1 users say affordability is a significant challenge, a poll from KFF, the health policy research organization, found.
But this is not traditional Part D coverage, and the distinction creates financial consequences that could blindside enrollees who ******* ume the program works like every other Medicare prescription benefit they have used.
#part #drugs
Beginning July 1, eligible Part D enrollees can access medications including Wegovy, Foundayo, and the Zepbound KwikPen for a flat $50 monthly copay through a temporary federal demonstration called the Medicare GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) Bridge.
That is a massive discount compared to the retail price of these drugs, which can exceed $1,000 per month without insurance coverage.
It arrives at a moment when roughly 56% of GLP-1 users say affordability is a significant challenge, a poll from KFF, the health policy research organization, found.
But this is not traditional Part D coverage, and the distinction creates financial consequences that could blindside enrollees who ******* ume the program works like every other Medicare prescription benefit they have used.
#part #drugs
2 months ago
We recently compiled a list of the 10 Best Innovative Healthcare Stocks to Buy Now. Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:CRNX) is one of the best healthcare stocks on our list.
TheFly reported on July 2 that UBS ******* yst Ashwani Verma initiated coverage of CRNX with a Buy rating and a $55 price target. The ******* yst noted that the stock's 44% decline since mid-January presents an appealing opportunity for investors. UBS highlighted CRNX's pipeline as having multiple potential catalysts, supported by programs with strong chances of clinical success. The firm expressed the highest confidence in the Phase 3 atumelnant program for congenital adrenal hyperplasia and projects peak sales potential of approximately $2.0 billion.
In other news, on July 6, Vertex Pharmaceuticals and Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:CRNX) announced a definitive agreement under which Vertex will acquire Crinetics for $85.00 per share in cash, representing an equity value of approximately $10 billion, or about $8.8 billion after accounting for estimated acquired cash. The transaction received unanimous approval from both companies' boards and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026. Vertex stated that CRNX's endocrine-focused portfolio, including PALSONIFY and atumelnant, aligns with its strategy of developing transformative medicines for diseases with significant unmet needs. The acquisition is expected to support Vertex's revenue growth, with the combined ******* ets projected to provide more than $5 billion in potential peak annual revenue.
Crinteics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:CRNX) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing oral, non-peptide therapies for endocrine diseases and tumors by targeting G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Its key programs include PALSONIFY (paltusotine), an FDA- and EMA-approved oral treatment for acromegaly; atremelnant, a Phase 3 therapy for congenital adrenal hyperplasia and Cushing's syndrome; and a pipeline targeting conditions such as Graves' disease, obesity, and other endocrine disorders, and this is what makes the company innovative.
While we acknowledge the potential of CRNX as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
TheFly reported on July 2 that UBS ******* yst Ashwani Verma initiated coverage of CRNX with a Buy rating and a $55 price target. The ******* yst noted that the stock's 44% decline since mid-January presents an appealing opportunity for investors. UBS highlighted CRNX's pipeline as having multiple potential catalysts, supported by programs with strong chances of clinical success. The firm expressed the highest confidence in the Phase 3 atumelnant program for congenital adrenal hyperplasia and projects peak sales potential of approximately $2.0 billion.
In other news, on July 6, Vertex Pharmaceuticals and Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:CRNX) announced a definitive agreement under which Vertex will acquire Crinetics for $85.00 per share in cash, representing an equity value of approximately $10 billion, or about $8.8 billion after accounting for estimated acquired cash. The transaction received unanimous approval from both companies' boards and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026. Vertex stated that CRNX's endocrine-focused portfolio, including PALSONIFY and atumelnant, aligns with its strategy of developing transformative medicines for diseases with significant unmet needs. The acquisition is expected to support Vertex's revenue growth, with the combined ******* ets projected to provide more than $5 billion in potential peak annual revenue.
Crinteics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:CRNX) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing oral, non-peptide therapies for endocrine diseases and tumors by targeting G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Its key programs include PALSONIFY (paltusotine), an FDA- and EMA-approved oral treatment for acromegaly; atremelnant, a Phase 3 therapy for congenital adrenal hyperplasia and Cushing's syndrome; and a pipeline targeting conditions such as Graves' disease, obesity, and other endocrine disorders, and this is what makes the company innovative.
While we acknowledge the potential of CRNX as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
2 months ago
Metabolic health-focused drug developer Kalohexis is eyeing a debut on the public market after confidentially filing for an initial public offering (IPO) – potentially adding it to a growing list of American biotechs that have opted to go public thus far in 2026.
Though the details around the biotech's public debut remain sparse, the company notes it has submitted a draft registration statement to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) related to the IPO. Kalohexis is yet to determine how many shares it will offer and at what price upon its potential public market debut.
Kalohexis' proposed IPO comes four months after the clinical-stage biotech spun out of peptide therapeutic specialist Endevica Bio in March 2026, as it looks to progress its range of therapies for both obesity and cancer cachexia.
At the core of Kalohexis' approach is the melanocortin system, which is involved in balancing energy intake and expenditure, while also regulating appetite and inflammation. By modulating this system through the melanocortin-3 and -4 receptors (MC3R/MC4R), the biotech proposes that it can treat "many metabolic disorders".
Currently, Kalohexis has two lead, clinical-stage pipeline programmes to its name.
Though the details around the biotech's public debut remain sparse, the company notes it has submitted a draft registration statement to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) related to the IPO. Kalohexis is yet to determine how many shares it will offer and at what price upon its potential public market debut.
Kalohexis' proposed IPO comes four months after the clinical-stage biotech spun out of peptide therapeutic specialist Endevica Bio in March 2026, as it looks to progress its range of therapies for both obesity and cancer cachexia.
At the core of Kalohexis' approach is the melanocortin system, which is involved in balancing energy intake and expenditure, while also regulating appetite and inflammation. By modulating this system through the melanocortin-3 and -4 receptors (MC3R/MC4R), the biotech proposes that it can treat "many metabolic disorders".
Currently, Kalohexis has two lead, clinical-stage pipeline programmes to its name.
2 months ago
Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE:DAR) is one of the best value stocks to buy right now. On June 4, Darling Ingredients' health brand, Rousselot, was granted US Patent No. US12636339 for Nextida GC, a specialized collagen peptide ingredient designed to support healthy post-meal blood glucose levels. The patent secures both the production process and the use of the ingredient as a dietary supplement. This innovation offers a non-pharmaceutical, science-backed approach to metabolic health.
CEO Randall C. Stuewe emphasized that the patent validates the company's scientific research and underscores its commitment to expanding into targeted health solutions. Nextida GC is intended for dietary supplement applications and represents a key addition to the company's growing portfolio of functional health products.
The innovation has already received patent protection in several major international markets, including Australia, Europe, ***** an, and China. Additional patent applications for Nextida GC are currently pending in countries across North and South America, as well as in India and Korea, as the company scales its health ingredient strategy globally.
Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE:DAR) is the world's largest repurposer of food and animal waste. The company takes organic by-products from the meat, poultry, and food industries and transforms them into sustainable ingredients for human food, pet food, animal feed, and renewable energy.
While we acknowledge the potential of DAR as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
CEO Randall C. Stuewe emphasized that the patent validates the company's scientific research and underscores its commitment to expanding into targeted health solutions. Nextida GC is intended for dietary supplement applications and represents a key addition to the company's growing portfolio of functional health products.
The innovation has already received patent protection in several major international markets, including Australia, Europe, ***** an, and China. Additional patent applications for Nextida GC are currently pending in countries across North and South America, as well as in India and Korea, as the company scales its health ingredient strategy globally.
Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE:DAR) is the world's largest repurposer of food and animal waste. The company takes organic by-products from the meat, poultry, and food industries and transforms them into sustainable ingredients for human food, pet food, animal feed, and renewable energy.
While we acknowledge the potential of DAR as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
3 months ago
Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) is one of the best low volatility stocks to buy under $50. Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) announced on June 11 that the Wegovy® pill has been approved in the UK as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, offering a first-of-its-kind alternative to injectable treatments for adults. The United Kingdom's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approved the Wegovy® pill. Wegovy is an oral glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist licensed for weight management in adults living with obesity (initial Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2), or overweight (BMI ≥27 kg/m2 to
3 months ago
We recently compiled a list of the 10 Best Weight Loss Drug Stocks to Buy in 2026. Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) is one of the best weight loss drugs on this list.
TheFly reported on June 16 that Berenberg increased its price target for NVO shares to DKK 325 from DKK 300 while maintaining its Buy rating on the stock.
Separately, on June 11, Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) announced that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approved the oral version of Wegovy for weight management in adults living with obesity or overweight individuals with at least one related health condition. The approval allows the Wegovy pill to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, providing a new non-injectable option for patients seeking weight-loss treatment.
Khosro/Shutterstock.com
The daily oral glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist represents an alternative to injectable therapies currently used for obesity management. The MHRA decision was supported by results from the OASIS 4 Phase 3 clinical trial, which evaluated the effectiveness of the treatment. The approval expands NVO's obesity treatment portfolio and introduces a more convenient delivery method for eligible patients.
TheFly reported on June 16 that Berenberg increased its price target for NVO shares to DKK 325 from DKK 300 while maintaining its Buy rating on the stock.
Separately, on June 11, Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) announced that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approved the oral version of Wegovy for weight management in adults living with obesity or overweight individuals with at least one related health condition. The approval allows the Wegovy pill to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, providing a new non-injectable option for patients seeking weight-loss treatment.
Khosro/Shutterstock.com
The daily oral glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist represents an alternative to injectable therapies currently used for obesity management. The MHRA decision was supported by results from the OASIS 4 Phase 3 clinical trial, which evaluated the effectiveness of the treatment. The approval expands NVO's obesity treatment portfolio and introduces a more convenient delivery method for eligible patients.
3 months ago
Jenny Mollen has revealed she went through a "harrowing" experience while taking a GLP-1 weight loss drug.
The episode left her then-husband Jason Biggs "screaming like it's a horror movie", she shared on the latest episode of the Let's Talk Off Camera With Kelly Ripa podcast.
"I was microdosing the GLPs. I was also taking other peptides," Mollen recalled of the June 2025 incident. But I think that something happens with your period. Maybe it's just the perimenopausal situation.
"Suddenly I was, like, hemorrhaging. It was blood clots the size of dinosaur eggs. It was so scary," she continued, adding that she "felt like I was laying an egg" when she went to the bathroom. "So I run to the bathroom and I am literally sitting on the toilet and I hear this plop and just blood everywhere."
When Biggs came to help, he joined in on the panic moment and started screaming too.
Mollen didn't immediately go to the hospital but, by that night, her condition had worsened and she knew she was losing too much blood.
The episode left her then-husband Jason Biggs "screaming like it's a horror movie", she shared on the latest episode of the Let's Talk Off Camera With Kelly Ripa podcast.
"I was microdosing the GLPs. I was also taking other peptides," Mollen recalled of the June 2025 incident. But I think that something happens with your period. Maybe it's just the perimenopausal situation.
"Suddenly I was, like, hemorrhaging. It was blood clots the size of dinosaur eggs. It was so scary," she continued, adding that she "felt like I was laying an egg" when she went to the bathroom. "So I run to the bathroom and I am literally sitting on the toilet and I hear this plop and just blood everywhere."
When Biggs came to help, he joined in on the panic moment and started screaming too.
Mollen didn't immediately go to the hospital but, by that night, her condition had worsened and she knew she was losing too much blood.
3 months ago
Among those taking GLP-1 medications for weight loss, exercise rates are decreasing, according to new research.
The study, set to be presented at ENDO 2026 (the Endocrine Society's annual meeting) in Chicago this week, found that adults with obesity who lost weight with a GLP-1, such as Ozempic or Wegovy, "significantly reduced" their physical activity.
In an Endocrine Society press release, study lead Sajana Maharjan, MD, of HSHS St. John's Hospital in Springfield, Illinois, noted that GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide and tirzepatide reduce both fat and lean muscle mass.
'Wild West' Peptide Craze Surges Beyond Glp-1s As Fda Faces Pressure To Ease Access
This means physical activity is "essential for preserving strength and long-term health," she said.
The study, set to be presented at ENDO 2026 (the Endocrine Society's annual meeting) in Chicago this week, found that adults with obesity who lost weight with a GLP-1, such as Ozempic or Wegovy, "significantly reduced" their physical activity.
In an Endocrine Society press release, study lead Sajana Maharjan, MD, of HSHS St. John's Hospital in Springfield, Illinois, noted that GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide and tirzepatide reduce both fat and lean muscle mass.
'Wild West' Peptide Craze Surges Beyond Glp-1s As Fda Faces Pressure To Ease Access
This means physical activity is "essential for preserving strength and long-term health," she said.
3 months ago
(NewsNation) — Peptides are surging in popularity across the wellness and fitness ******* e, and now there's one that supporters claim could help reduce signs of aging.
GHK-Cu, a copper peptide that naturally occurs in the body, is gaining momentum as a skin rejuvenation product touted by celebrities and social media influencers.
First discovered in human plasma in 1973, the compound was found to help old liver tissue act as if it were young again. However, as the body ages, it produces less of it.
Peptides are naturally occurring in everyone, but with advances in medical technology, synthetic peptides have become popular.
Could stopping and restarting GLP-1 drugs have side effects?
GHK-Cu, a copper peptide that naturally occurs in the body, is gaining momentum as a skin rejuvenation product touted by celebrities and social media influencers.
First discovered in human plasma in 1973, the compound was found to help old liver tissue act as if it were young again. However, as the body ages, it produces less of it.
Peptides are naturally occurring in everyone, but with advances in medical technology, synthetic peptides have become popular.
Could stopping and restarting GLP-1 drugs have side effects?
3 months ago
Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) is one of the
7 Best Longevity Stocks to Buy Now.
On June 8, 2026, Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) announced that the U.S. FDA approved an expanded indication for Hympavzi to include patients with hemophilia A or B 12 years and older with inhibitors and pediatric patients with or without inhibitors. Hympavzi is now indicated in the U.S. for routine prophylaxis to prevent or reduce bleeding episodes in adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older with hemophilia A with or without factor VIII inhibitors, or hemophilia B with or without factor IX inhibitors.
On June 7, 2026, Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) presented detailed Phase 2b results for berobenatide, an investigational monthly GLP-1 receptor agonist peptide, at the 86th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes **** ociation. The company said the VESPER-1, 2, and 3 studies provided proof of concept for berobenatide as a potential first-in-class monthly GLP-1 RA peptide, showed favorable tolerability, and highlighted potential advantages from monthly delivery and a 0.5 mL injection volume.
On May 31, 2026, Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) announced detailed progression-free and overall survival results from Cohort 3 of the Phase 3 Breakwater trial. Pfizer said median progression-free survival was nearly doubled with the BRAFTOVI combination regimen versus the comparator.
7 Best Longevity Stocks to Buy Now.
On June 8, 2026, Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) announced that the U.S. FDA approved an expanded indication for Hympavzi to include patients with hemophilia A or B 12 years and older with inhibitors and pediatric patients with or without inhibitors. Hympavzi is now indicated in the U.S. for routine prophylaxis to prevent or reduce bleeding episodes in adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older with hemophilia A with or without factor VIII inhibitors, or hemophilia B with or without factor IX inhibitors.
On June 7, 2026, Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) presented detailed Phase 2b results for berobenatide, an investigational monthly GLP-1 receptor agonist peptide, at the 86th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes **** ociation. The company said the VESPER-1, 2, and 3 studies provided proof of concept for berobenatide as a potential first-in-class monthly GLP-1 RA peptide, showed favorable tolerability, and highlighted potential advantages from monthly delivery and a 0.5 mL injection volume.
On May 31, 2026, Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) announced detailed progression-free and overall survival results from Cohort 3 of the Phase 3 Breakwater trial. Pfizer said median progression-free survival was nearly doubled with the BRAFTOVI combination regimen versus the comparator.
10 months ago
Scientists may have identified a way to naturally regulate blood sugar levels and sugar cravings in a similar fashion to drugs like Ozempic.
In mice and humans, the key to unlocking this natural process was found to be a gut microbe and its metabolites – the compounds it produces during digestion.
By increasing the abundance of this one gut microbe in diabetic mice, researchers led by a team at Jiangnan University in China showed they can "orchestrate the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1".
Related: Mounjaro's Effect on Brain's 'Cravings' Measured For The First Time
Glucagon-like peptid
In mice and humans, the key to unlocking this natural process was found to be a gut microbe and its metabolites – the compounds it produces during digestion.
By increasing the abundance of this one gut microbe in diabetic mice, researchers led by a team at Jiangnan University in China showed they can "orchestrate the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1".
Related: Mounjaro's Effect on Brain's 'Cravings' Measured For The First Time
Glucagon-like peptid
