Radiopharmaceuticals race heats up as drugmakers chase Novartis

From CNBC: 2024-09-16 09:18:34

Drugmakers are investing in radiopharmaceuticals for cancer treatment, with $10 billion in deals already made. Novartis has two drugs available, with dozens more in development. Market opportunity could be $5 billion to tens of billions. Complex manufacturing is a challenge, but successful cases like Novartis have sparked broader interest in the field.

Large pharmaceutical companies like Eli Lilly, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Novartis are investing in radiopharmaceuticals for cancer treatment. Novartis secured approvals for Lutathera and Pluvicto, expected to generate $4 billion in sales by 2027. Lilly acquired Point Biopharma for $1.4 billion. Manufacturing is a key component, showing success in the field.

Novartis is investing in infrastructure to produce and distribute radiopharmaceuticals for cancer treatment, expanding to potential new markets for breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers. The technology is in its early stages, with executives optimistic about its potential in the next decade. Combining with existing cancer drugs could be advantageous.

Ronald Coy, a prostate cancer patient, has responded well to Novartis’ Pluvicto treatment, showing a significant decrease in cancer levels. Large pharmaceutical companies are encouraged by success stories like Coy’s, jumping into the radiopharmaceutical race. The future potential of radiopharmaceuticals remains to be seen as more drugs are in early developmental phases.



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