Good morning, everyone! We hope you’re having a great day. Despite the cloudy skies here at Pharmalot, we’re doing well and enjoying the autumn breeze. Today is an exciting day with millions of voters casting their ballots. We’re brewing some coffee to stay alert, and you’re welcome to join us. Now, let’s dive into some interesting updates that might catch your attention and provide a nice distraction.
Unfortunately, there was a tragic incident in a clinical trial of a CRISPR-based treatment from Beam Therapeutics for sickle cell disease. A patient participating in the trial passed away due to respiratory failure, likely caused by the chemotherapy necessary for the treatment. The treatment, called BEAM-101, uses a more precise form of CRISPR gene editing. This incident highlights the risks associated with genetic treatments for blood disorders, despite the advancements in gene editing technology.
On another note, coverage of obesity drugs in Medicaid is still limited. A recent survey found that only 13 state Medicaid programs covered GLP-1s for obesity treatment as of August 2024. While some states have added coverage, there are utilization controls in place, such as prior authorization or body mass index requirements. The number of prescriptions and spending on GLP-1s in Medicaid has been increasing rapidly in recent years, indicating a growing need for obesity treatment options.
As we navigate through these updates, it’s essential to consider the challenges and advancements in healthcare, particularly in genetic treatments and obesity management. Stay tuned for more insights and developments in the pharmaceutical industry as we continue to explore these critical topics.
Ed Silverman, a senior writer and Pharmalot columnist at STAT, has been covering the pharmaceutical industry for nearly three decades. His expertise and experience provide valuable insights into the complex world of healthcare and drug development.
