Healthy Returns: J&J cell therapy gains new edge over Bristol Myers rival

Biotech
Wednesday, April 10th, 2024 2:20 pm EDT

Key Points

  • FDA expands approvals for cell therapies from Bristol Myers Squibb and Johnson & Johnson, allowing earlier use in the treatment of multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer.
  • J&J’s drug Carvykti gains advantage over Bristol Myers’s Abecma as it can be used after just one prior line of therapy, potentially offering a treatment-free period earlier in the disease progression.
  • Analysts anticipate J&J’s Carvykti to dominate the market share in CAR-T therapy for multiple myeloma, with potential annual sales reaching $8 billion, while Bristol Myers’s Abecma may peak around $450 million. Both companies are facing supply constraints despite new approvals.


The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently expanded approvals for cell therapies developed by Bristol Myers Squibb and Johnson & Johnson, allowing earlier use in the treatment of multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. This decision marks a significant advancement for patients, providing more treatment options and potentially improving outcomes. J&J’s drug, Carvykti, gained a notable advantage as it can now be used after just one prior line of therapy, potentially offering patients a treatment-free period earlier in the disease progression. In contrast, Bristol Myers’s Abecma requires at least two prior drug regimens before administration under the new FDA approval. Analysts predict that Carvykti’s eligibility as a second-line treatment could limit the use of other similar therapies and expect it to capture the majority of the market share in the CAR-T therapy market for multiple myeloma. Despite both companies grappling with long-term supply constraints, J&J’s expanded approval for Carvykti could position it as a blockbuster product, with potential annual sales reaching $8 billion, whereas Abecma’s peak annual sales are estimated to be around $450 million. Meanwhile, in the realm of health care technology, Mount Sinai Health System is leveraging generative artificial intelligence (AI) across various initiatives in patient care, education, and research. AI tools are aiding clinicians and staff in decision-making processes, particularly in radiology where they provide an additional layer of assurance in evaluating medical images. Despite the excitement surrounding generative AI in health care, Mount Sinai is adopting a measured approach, emphasizing safety, feasibility, practicality, and ethics in implementing AI solutions. With a focus on addressing real problems and improving workflows, Mount Sinai aims to navigate the integration of AI technologies thoughtfully and responsibly.

For the full original article on CNBC, please click here: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/09/healthy-returns-jj-cell-therapy-gains-edge-over-bristol-myers-rival.html