LIPFENDRA FDA Approval: Merck’s Enlicitide Becomes First Oral PCSK9 Inhibitor to Lower LDL-C

Merck MSD

The LIPFENDRA FDA approval makes Merck’s enlicitide the first once-daily oral PCSK9 inhibitor cleared to lower LDL-C in adults with hypercholesterolemia, including HeFH. Phase 3 CORALreef data showed placebo-adjusted LDL-C reductions of 56–59% at 24 weeks.

Pfizer and Astellas Win FDA Approval for PADCEV Plus Keytruda in Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer

pfizer news

The FDA has approved PADCEV plus Keytruda as the first platinum-free neoadjuvant and adjuvant regimen for adults with muscle-invasive bladder cancer, regardless of cisplatin eligibility, backed by Phase 3 EV-304 data showing major reductions in recurrence and death risk.

U.S. FDA Approves PADCEV® and KEYTRUDA® Combo for Patients with Bladder Cancer

pfizer news

The FDA has granted approval for PADCEV® plus KEYTRUDA® as a perioperative treatment for cisplatin-ineligible patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Clinical data reveals the combination reduces the risk of recurrence, progression, or death by 60% compared to surgery alone, marking a major shift in the standard of care.

Merck to Acquire Cidara Therapeutics for $9.2 Billion, Gaining Late-Stage Antiviral Agent CD388

Merck MSD

Merck has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Cidara Therapeutics for approximately $9.2 billion in an all-cash deal. The strategic acquisition centers on Cidara’s lead candidate, CD388, a potentially first-in-class, long-acting antiviral designed for the universal prevention of influenza A and B, which is currently in Phase 3 trials. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026.

Merck’s Oral PCSK9 Inhibitor, Enlicitide, Shows Significant LDL-C Reduction in Phase 3 CORALreef HeFH Trial

Merck MSD

Merck announced promising results from its pivotal Phase 3 CORALreef HeFH trial. The study found that enlicitide, an investigational, once-daily oral PCSK9 inhibitor, significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in adults with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). These late-breaking data were presented at the AHA Scientific Sessions 2025.

Breakthrough in Bladder Cancer Treatment: PADCEV and KEYTRUDA Combination Significantly Improves Survival

pfizer news

A landmark clinical trial reveals a powerful new weapon against aggressive bladder cancer. The combination of PADCEV™ and KEYTRUDA®, administered before and after surgery, has been shown to significantly improve survival rates for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer who are ineligible for cisplatin chemotherapy. These groundbreaking results could establish a new standard of care, offering profound hope for a patient population with previously limited options.