Weekend ICYMI: July 8 to July 12
In case you missed it, this week we had news about FTC-backed PBM investigations, FDA approvals in atopic dermatitis, misconceptions about dry eye, and more.
FTC Issues First Report Regarding Ongoing PBM Inquiry
Federal Trade Commission Seal / Andriy Blokhin - stock.adobe.com
As part of its ongoing inquiry into the business operations of the top pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released an interim report that detailed PBMs’ immense power in determining prescription drug access and affordability to the detriment of independent pharmacies and their patients. Using several key industry tactics, specifically focusing on anti-competition, there are 6 PBMs wielding the greatest power in the health care industry due to vertical integration and significant power over the pharmaceutical supply chain.
FDA Approves Roflumilast Cream 0.15% for Atopic Dermatitis in Pediatric, Adult Patients
The FDA has approved the supplemental new drug application (sNDA) for roflumilast cream, 0.15% (Zoryve) for the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) in adult and pediatric patients aged 6 years and older, Arcutis Biotherapeutics announced in a news release. The cream provides rapid disease clearance and significant reduction in itch to patients and has been specifically formulated for long-term disease control. The commercial product is expected to be available by the end of July.
Survey: Dry Eye Is Common, But Americans Remain Uneducated About the Condition
Most Americans remain uninformed about dry eye—including those experiencing symptoms of the condition, according to results of Bausch + Lomb’s inaugural State of Dry Eye survey. “The prevalence of dry eye is growing, particularly among a younger demographic in large part due to modern lifestyles and heavy digital device use,” said Yehia Hashad, MD, executive vice president of research and development and chief medical officer, in a news release. “The survey results underscore the importance of raising awareness of dry eye so sufferers are empowered to speak with an eye care professional to seek relief.”
Stigmatization Plays Key Role in the Mental Health of Children with Skin Disease
While chronic skin disorders can be difficult for children to manage, the stigmatization of their diseases can trigger poor mental health and quality of life (QOL) outcomes. Researchers found a significant number of cases where mental health and QOL was exacerbated in children with skin disorders because of bullying and other negative sentiments toward the visibility of their ailments, according to a study published in JAMA Dermatology.
Third Ustekinumab Biosimilar Gains FDA Approval
The FDA has approved ustekinumab (Stelara) biosimilar ustekinumab-ttwe (Pyzchiva) for all of the same indications as the reference medication, according to a news release. The drug has also been granted a provisional determination for interchangeability designation. Ustekinumab-ttwe is available for subcutaneous injection in 45 mg/0.5 mL and 90 mg/mL pre-filled syringes, and for intravenous infusion in a 130 mg/26 mL (5 mg/mL) single-dose vial.
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