What is the “Niche” for Ceftolozane / Tazobactam?

There are currently a total of 6 beta-lactam + beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations in clinical trials. It will be a steep learning curve for the pharma reps (and physicians) to understand the resistance classifications, the confusing ESBL definitions, the CRE nomenclature, Continue reading What is the “Niche” for Ceftolozane / Tazobactam?

The Difficult Transition Into Phase 3

Preclinical and early clinical development is expensive enough already for VC companies but it gets really expensive in Phase 3.  Hence, not surprisingly, few small companies tackle Phase 3 programs on their own.  Unless an ‘angel investor’ with deep pockets Continue reading The Difficult Transition Into Phase 3

BC-3781 Passes Phase 2 with Flying Colors, Readies for Phase 3

The pleuromutilins are a relatively ‘old’ class of antibiotics that have seen much use in veterinary but not in human medicine.  According to EMA, Tiamulin is an “essential antibiotic” for the control of dysentery in pigs which is caused by Continue reading BC-3781 Passes Phase 2 with Flying Colors, Readies for Phase 3

The Rapid Rise of Sulfonamide Diversity

Shortly after Domagk and Hörlein announced their discovery of the antibacterial properties of the dye sulfamidochrysoidine (Prontosil) in 1935, numerous chemical companies set out to modify the chemical structure.  They soon recognized the sulfa component as the true antibacterial and produced an incredible Continue reading The Rapid Rise of Sulfonamide Diversity

The War about Data Access

Several articles in the April 7 issue of BMJ were devoted to the epic battle fought by BMJ and Cochrane to gain unfettered access to the Tamiflu® and Relenza® data. Not just some data, but all the data. Considering that Continue reading The War about Data Access