STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about AstraZeneca cost-cutting, Sun Pharma facility problems, and more

And so, another working week will soon draw to a close. Not a moment too soon, yes? This is, you may recall, our treasured signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda is, so far, rather modest. We will manicure the Pharmalot grounds, catch up on our reading, and mosey about town. We also hope to hold yet another listening party, where the rotation will likely include this, this, this, this and this. And what about you? Not to sound too dramatic, but this will be your last chance to find the Great Pumpkin, so give it your best shot. And if you live on this side of the pond, this may also be your final opportunity to decide how to cast your vote in the upcoming election — best of luck sorting out the truth. Otherwise, this may be a fine time to curl up with a book, binge-watch something on the telly, or cook a yummy meal. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you soon. … AstraZeneca has launched a three-year cost-cutting program that aims to slice off $1.5 billion a year, with the savings reinvested in R&D, Pharmaphorum writes. There’s no word yet on the job implications from the initiative, which the company estimates will carry a one-time charge of around $2 billion and is expected to be completed by the end of 2029. The drug maker is already facing headwinds from the loss of patent protection for some products, including diabetes blockbuster Farxiga, with a string of other big brands due to lose exclusivity between now and the mid-2030’s, including three cancer drugs. Indian regulators ordered Sun Pharmaceutical to stop manufacturing, selling and distributing ophthalmic products made at its Assam facility after finding failure in ​its quality management system, Reuters reported. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization and the office of Drugs Controller Assam ordered the shutdown on ‌Aug. 20 after a joint federal-state inspection identified lapses in the system meant to ensure product quality and safety, following Sun Pharma’s move in July to voluntarily recall about 11 eye-care brands. Sun Pharma had previously said the site was expected to become one of its largest manufacturing ⁠hubs for sterile products in a business identified as a key global growth driver. 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