Pharma Pulse: SOBI’s $1.5B Gout Acquisition Clears Pipeline; New Cholesterol Drug Lerochol Scores on Convenience

Welcome to Pharma Pulse, a Pharmaceutical Commerce podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and let’s get into today’s headlines.

• We start with a significant acquisition in the rare disease space: SOBI has announced a definitive agreement to acquire US-based Arthrosi Therapeutics for up to $1.5 billion. The deal, which includes $950 million cash upfront, centers on pozdeutinurad, an investigational, URAT1 inhibitor for progressive and tophaceous gout. Currently in Phase III trials with pivotal data expected in 2026, the asset is expected to become a key therapy for patients not adequately treated by current first-line options, and is projected to materially accelerate SOBI's growth into the mid-2030s.
• In regulatory news, the FDA has approved Lerochol, or lerodalcibep-liga, from LIB Therapeutics. This is the newest, third-generation PCSK9 inhibitor, approved as an adjunct to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in adults, including those with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. It is expected to launch in the US in spring 2026.
• Lastly, a look at commercial optimization. As the gap between a drug's list price and its realized net price continues to widen, pharmaceutical manufacturers are intensifying the push to strategically optimize gross-to-net, or GTN. Experts argue that GTN must evolve from a mere accounting function to a core commercial strategy. The focus is shifting from broad discounts to targeted, strategic spend, ensuring that every rebate and concession is tied to measurable outcomes in patient access and adherence.

That’s it for this episode of Pharma Pulse. For more insights on trends transforming pharmaceutical access and care delivery, visit pharmaceuticalcommerce.com.

Thanks for listening—until next time, stay well and stay informed.

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