Biotech Values

[Shengli]

In terms of the Vertex drug and Merck drug i know that many people including my self are waiting for the full data from both companies so we can compare the data. I have to tell you that these comparisons will not have the impact that some on this board and on wall street think they will have. If you have any experience actually marketing drugs in front of the FDA you know that non label comparisons will not only not be allowed and they will be closely monitored. Unless there is a head to head trial both companies when marketing will not be allowed to discuss the other product . The FDA has been very strict in this area in the last two years. The so called experts will not be allowed to approach that area when being paid by one of the companies.That is about the only time these mouthpieces talk is when they are getting paid.
If the drugs are even close they will be considered me too drugs except in the case in several critical tie breakers.

Most important area is who will pay for it.Insurance coverage will be the most important factor.Now Merck has vast resources and that could be an advantage but if Telepravir receives a shorter course than than the Merck product that will make it significantly less expensive and add in the EPO and that could seal it.That is why the drugs labels are going to be critical in terms of treatment duration.We are still very far away from the label

But do not get so hung up on comparing one study to a completely different non head to head trial.It is just not allowed in the real world