Global Scans · Pharmaceuticals · Weekly Summary

• [New] The pharmaceutical leader is expected to dominate 2026 through its GLP-1 franchise. Peter Fisk
• [New] Only 10% of biologics expected to lose patent protection within the next decade currently have biosimilars in development, and 27% of biologics with annual sales exceeding $500 million lack any biosimilar program despite clear commercial and patient need. Dermatology Times
• [New] State and federal policy makers could consider prohibiting confidential rebates for biologic drugs once biosimilar versions become available in the US to improve price transparency and facilitate more direct price competition. AJMC
• [New] In 2026, drug pricing debates will intensify as double-digit healthcare cost increases continue to squeeze employers and individuals. Managed Healthcare Executive
• [New] After the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, Medicare will be able to negotiate drug prices starting in 2026. PubMed Central (PMC)
• [New] The pharmaceutical sector enters 2026 with confidence and ample capital to deploy following a strong second half of 2025 defined by precision-driven biopharma M&A. PwC
• [New] Two major trials investigating the potential of the psychedelic drug LSD for reducing anxiety are set to conclude in 2026. New Scientist
• [New] In 2026, life sciences companies will increasingly harness large-scale health, genetic, and biometric datasets to power AI-driven drug discovery and personalized care. Morrison Foerster
• Drug pricing policy changes in the U.S. are expected to reduce prices under Medicare / Medicaid and in commercial markets but will likely have minimal impact on prices in international markets. https://www.lazard.com
• U.S. Administration's Drug Pricing Policy Expected to Decrease Medicare / Medicaid and Commercial Drug Prices, Have Limited or No Impact on European Drug Prices, and Result in Fewer Biopharmaceutical Companies Launching Drugs Outside the U.S. https://www.lazard.com
• The next transformative phase of weight-loss medication is upon us, with the US Food and Drug Administration approving Novo Nordisk's highly anticipated oral GLP-1 drug - with a starting dose available in early January for US$149. New Atlas

Last updated: 06 January 2026