Replies to post #233807 on Biotech Values

[swampboots]

AMD: IMHO, biggest advances in AMD will be in surgical technologies not drug intervention. So many techniques could not be attempted before huge advances in microscopes and the handling of micro sized sutures.

[DewDiligence]

Addendum re AMD—It's unclear whether an implant requiring two (minor) surgeries per year is more convenient for the patient than an intraocular injection every 3 months or so.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, having fewer appointments is a definite benefit, but the pandemic may be over (or nearly over) by the time Roche's device gets to market.

[miljenko]

If Eylea can make 3 inj/Y (every 4 months, 16w) PDS is dead.

16 w is feasible, based on current data.

[Biowatch]

NVS, Roche $528_million fine for anti-competitive practices in France

https://www.statnews.com/pharmalot/2020/09/10/novartis-roche-france-eye-antitrust/

At issue is a long-running drama over Lucentis, which is used to treat age-related macular degeneration... However, an older and cheaper cancer medication called Avastin is often repackaged by physicians to treat the eye disease...

Roche makes both Avastin & Lucentis (remember Genentech?). Novartis markets it in Europe.