By Ed SilvermanAug. 20, 2026
Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer
Rise and shine, everyone, another busy day is on the way. And it is getting off to a pleasant start here on the Pharmalot campus, where clear blue skies and comfy breezes are greeting us. As for the official mascots, they are happily snoozing in their respective corners. Meanwhile, we are firing up the trusty kettle for another cuppa stimulation. Our choice today is Earl Grey. And here is a helpful tip — a teaspoon of honey enhances the flavors splendidly. Of course, you are invited to join us. For the full experience, we are now hawking replicas — take a look. Meanwhile, here are a few items of interest. As always, do keep in touch. We appreciate feedback, criticism, and tips. …
A medicine from Regeneron Pharmaceuticals for an ultra-rare disease that causes bone to grow where it shouldn’t, won U.S. regulatory approval, the capstone of a three-decade effort, STAT writes. The hope is that the new medicine, called Pasatru, can help patients with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva, or FOP, maintain their mobility and perhaps even live longer. Typically, people with FOP rely on wheelchairs by age 25 as the bone accumulation locks up their limbs, and only some live into their 50s. A Phase 3 trial demonstrated the drug led to a 94% reduction in new lesions that go on to form bone, while a high dose led to a 90% reduction.
