STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about AstraZeneca-Bristol merger talks, a revised 340B plan, and more

Good morning, everyone, and welcome to another working week. We hope the weekend respite was relaxing and invigorating because that oh-too-familiar routine of meetings, deadlines, and the like has returned with a vengeance. You knew this would happen, yes? To cope, we are relying, as always, on a cuppa stimulation. Our choice today is oolong. Please feel free to join us. Meanwhile, here is the latest menu of tidbits for you to peruse. We hope that your day is absolutely smashing and that you conquer the world. And of course, do keep in touch. We treasure your feedback and insights. … AstraZeneca stock fell as investors balked at reports of merger talks with Bristol Myers Squibb about forming what would become one of ​the world’s biggest drugmakers, with a combined value of nearly $400 billion, Reuters explains. Shares in AstraZeneca were down 5.5% so far on Monday as ‌investors and analysts noted the U.K.’s biggest drugmaker had little obvious need for a transformative acquisition despite potential financial benefits. Meanwhile, Bristol Myers shares were up about 5% in U.S. premarket trading. Jefferies analyst Michael Leuchten wrote in an investor note that a deal “would be more than a head scratcher.” Amgen disclosed that hackers stole company data and patient health information in a ​cybersecurity incident involving cloud storage systems run by third-party ‌providers, becoming the latest health care firm to disclose a breach, Reuters writes. On July 29, Amgen determined the incident was material, based on its evaluation of how ​many files appeared to be affected and the possibility that ​the information in those files could be sensitive, according to a regulatory filing. To date, Amgen has not found any impact on its products, manufacturing operations, financial reporting systems, or its ability to ​meet patient needs. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe