Pharma Blog Watch

Shire Acquires New ADHD Drug (Pharmalot)
In his blog, Ed Silverman writes about Shire's plan to buy New River Pharmaceuticals for $2.6 billion. "The drugmaker needs a replacement for its biggest seller, the Adderall treatment for [attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)], which loses patent protection in two years. Buy scooping up New River Pharmaceuticals, Shire will get Vyvanse, an ADHD pill that is up for FDA approval."

"The two drugmakers have a development deal for Vyvanse, although the FDA hasn't yet approved the ADHD treatment. Two approvable letters were sent while more data was sought for review. Shire hopes to launch Vyvance in the second quarter."