Biogen Idec, Maker of Tysabri, Downgraded - Shares Fall
Tuesday January 13, 2009
JP Morgan downgraded the rating of the stock of Biogen Idec because it of concerns that the company could face serious challenges in 2009 with Tysabri, a multiple sclerosis drug. Much of the downgrade was a result of recent negative news over Tysabri being linked to cases of PML, a serious brain infection. JP Morgan figured that, because of the concerns, the growth in Tysabri users is likely to remain static in 2009. As a result, Biogen Idec's stock fell 2.2% on the day of the announcement (January 5th), but has shown some recovery since then.
This just goes to show how oddly-mixed business and treatment are. Decisions about drug development are made under pressure from investors. When business prospects look good, companies have funds to develop new treatments. When things look less good, investors flee. Should business and treatment be this closely tied? Are there other options for the development of drugs? Put your thoughts in the comments.
This just goes to show how oddly-mixed business and treatment are. Decisions about drug development are made under pressure from investors. When business prospects look good, companies have funds to develop new treatments. When things look less good, investors flee. Should business and treatment be this closely tied? Are there other options for the development of drugs? Put your thoughts in the comments.
Further reading about Tysabri and PML:
Tysabri is like a miracle drug for me. I hope the stock improves. Unfortunately, money makes the world go round.
I agree with my fellow patient that money makes the world go around. Unfortunately, a market crash for a Tysabri patient potentially means death: that is a reality.
As the pillars of the financial markets crumble presently around us, I think it morose and even morbid for patients taking the Tysabri-dose that they, atop of the daily management of their illnesses, must also fret and worry about the share price of the chemical’s producers: Elan Corp. & Biogen Inc.
The stock in Tysabri’s case belongs to the shareholders in those corporations, and not in the health and wellbeing of the patients infusing the Tysabri chemical.
I also think it regrettable that many persons infusing Tysabri have not, in all cases, enjoyed the benefits of all available currently internationally established medicines, such as those produced by Fagron bv. BTW its stocks are improving if that is what you seek Jamie.
I found this article very balances, however I would point out that the side effects listed on the Tysabri-dose box far exceed those listed here in number. Also, I would like to learn more on the patient outcomes of those who survice the deadly cerebral virus progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.