isabelobrien, Author at European Medical Journal

Month in pharma news, explained

Month in pharma news, explained – January 2026

In this news roundup, take a look back at top moments from the pharmaceutical industry in January 2026.

Two hands reaching out to touch each other

Cancer charities back early detection with $12m push

The programme will focus on pancreatic, ovarian and oesophageal cancers – three indications that often spread silently.

Illustration of a family wearing face masks

Nipah in West Bengal: a pharma call to action

With two new Nipah virus cases confirmed, the pressure is mounting on the pharmaceutical industry to manufacture a vaccine.

Stack of coins on blue background

AstraZeneca bets big on China with $15bn investment

Pascal Soriot, CEO, AZ, hailed the investment as the start of “an exciting next chapter” for the company in China.

Sustainability

Pharma's annual climate report: ambition to execution

As pharma raced to meet climate targets in 2024-2025, it’s proving that scaling medicines doesn’t have to hurt the planet.

Hospital popping out of mobile phone

TrumpRx: Guidance on DTC sales issued to industry

The Office of Inspector General’s bulletin provides a framework for pharma companies selling prescription drugs direct-to-consumers (DTC).

Scientist performing-experiment

When ELNs fall short: why R&D is turning to AI

A new study shows how limitations in electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) are driving pharma R&D teams to use AI tools, raising privacy concerns.

Person taking a survey on a tablet

Gen Z increasingly turning to AI for STI advice

A growing number of Gen Z are turning to AI chatbots for sexual health advice, including the diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections.

Cartoon brain on green background

New drug could offer another way to treat stroke

Currently in phase 2 trials, BB-031 is the first new mechanistic approach to ischemic stroke treatment in nearly 30 years.

Person looking into distance with telescope at arrow pointing upwards

UK clinical trial applications on the rise, finds MHRA

The 9% growth in 2025 could signal that the country is on track to become a more attractive destination for pharamceutical R&D.