Further details of Merck KGaA/Pfizer-funded JAVELIN Bladder 100 study presented at this year’s ASCO confirm avelumab’s survival benefit when used as front-line maintenance therapy in patients with advanced urothelial cancer that has not progressed following initial chemotherapy.

Results from the first Phase III study – LEAP 1 – of the antibiotic lefamulin are positive, and Nabriva still has one trial to go. But the firm believes that regardless of that result, the totality of data could be used to support regulatory filings.

Major changes to Phase III Lung 100 study of PD-L1 inhibitor avelumab mean a big delay for development in first-line lung cancer, but, separately, Pfizer advances in allogeneic CAR-T therapy with partners Servier and Cellectis.

Improving gender balance in top pharma is a slow process, but not a gradual one. Management shake-ups often implemented by newly appointed CEOs could help.