STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about licensing deals with China, making drugs in space, and more

And so, another working week will soon come 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 still taking shape, but we plan on promenading with the official mascots, catching up on our reading, escorting Mrs. Pharmalot to a speakeasy and, if time permits, holding another listening party, where the rotation will likely feature this, this, this, this and this. And what about you? Now that autumn is upon us, this is a fine time to jump in your jalopy to visit orchards and patches. If the weather fails to cooperate, you could binge-watch a few series on the telly or shop for warmer garb. Maybe a new sweater or two is needed. Or stop by the eatery that always appeared inviting. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you on Tuesday, since we will be off again to observe ancient rituals and a pinch hitter will be in our stead on Monday. … The U.S. is working on rules for pharmaceutical companies investing in China that would likely preserve their ability to strike most licensing deals for Chinese drugs, Reuters reports. This would mark a departure for the Trump administration, which has sought to tighten business ties with China for other industries under new national security legislation, and would be looser than restrictions sought ‌by some lawmakers. The rules, being drafted by the U.S. Treasury Department, are likely to allow U.S. drugmakers to invest in promising new drugs being developed by Chinese companies as long as they are not related to pathogens or biotechnology that could be weaponized. An analysis of U.S. Food and Drug Administration data found hundreds of post-market studies listed as delayed and, in some cases, the work was delayed by more than a decade or the manufacturer was still developing a plan for the study, KFF Health News confides. Relying on post-approval studies to resolve questions risks exposing patients to products that do more harm than good. Whoever is paying the bills — patients, insurance companies, employers, or government health programs such as Medicare and Medicaid — can end up wasting money and rewarding manufacturers for useless or risky products. 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