The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has placed initial orders for GSK's A (H1N1) influenza vaccine antigen and the company's proprietary adjuvant system, AS03, to support its pandemic influenza preparation efforts.

Roche has announced that new two-year data from the LITHE study(1) demonstrate that ACTEMRA (tocilizumab, known as RoACTEMRA within the EU) continues to be highly effective at inhibiting joint structural damage and maintaining consistently high remission rates. Reducing the structural damage to joints in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a critical measure of effectiveness of an RA treatment.

Novartis has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the specialty generic injectables business of EBEWE Pharma, providing Sandoz - the Group's generic pharmaceuticals division - an opportunity to create a strong global platform for future growth while improving access for patients worldwide to many generic oncology medicines.

New data presented at EuroPCR from an international, post-approval, single-arm study show that Abbott's market-leading XIENCE V(R) Everolimus Eluting Coronary Stent System demonstrated low rates of repeat procedure (target lesion revascularization), stent thrombosis and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in a complex patient population.

Pfizer Inc has entered into licensing agreements with two pharmaceutical companies based in India, strengthening its position in emerging markets and significantly expanding its portfolio of medicines in its Established Products Business Unit.

Sanofi-aventis (EURONEXT: SAN and NYSE: SNY) has announced the launch of sanofi-aventis TV, a new webTV aimed at providing information about the company's wide range of patient-focused businesses, social responsibilities, and employee activities. The site will also provide perspectives on the company's mission and strategic directions.

Bayer received approval in Japan for Nexavar® (sorafenib) tablets for the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW). Nexavar, an oral anti-cancer drug, jointly developed by Bayer HealthCare AG and Onyx Pharmaceuticals, Inc., is the only drug therapy shown to significantly improve overall survival in patients with the disease.