STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about an RFK Jr. push against psychiatric meds, a Sanofi blood cancer drug, and more

STAT PlusNewsletterPharmalot Pharmalittle: We’re reading about an RFK Jr. push against psychiatric meds, a Sanofi blood cancer drug, and more Value of China’s innovative drug out-licensing deals ​reached about $110 billion in first half of 2026 Manage alerts for this article Email this article Share this article By Ed SilvermanJuly 13, 2026 Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer Ed Silverman[email protected]Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morning Pharmalittle newsletter and the afternoon Pharmalot newsletter. Good morning, everyone, and welcome to another working week. And of course, it is nice to see you again after we stepped away for a brief hiatus (and thanks to our pinch hitters last week). Not surprisingly, we are scurrying to catch up on events and way too many emails, but also making time for a cup of stimulation. Our choice today is maple bourbon. So please join us as we dig in. To that end, we have accumulated a brief menu of tidbits for you to peruse as you brace yourself for what lies ahead. We hope that all goes well and that you conquer the world. Meanwhile, do keep in touch. … U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is pressing forward with his effort to help Americans stop taking psychiatric drugs, a medical practice known as deprescribing, STAT reports. Earlier this month, dozens of mental health professionals met with federal health officials to map out forthcoming clinical guidance they hope will help providers instruct patients on how to come off of antidepressant medications. A senior HHS official said they discussed gaps in the research around deprescribing SSRIs, including the side effects a person may experience, which vary depending on the drug and how long the person was on it.Advertisement The U.S. Food and Drug Administration ​approved a wearable form of Sanofi’s blood cancer drug, Sarclisa, offering multiple ‌myeloma patients a less burdensome alternative to intravenous infusions, Reuters writes. This becomes the first cancer drug approved by the FDA that can be delivered through an on-body injector, attached ​to the skin. Subcutaneous dosing can significantly reduce time spent in infusion centers for patients who receive repeated treatment courses, while also easing the strain on oncology clinics and nurses. The ​infusions can take up to three hours, while the median injection ​time for the wearable device is 13 minutes STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in Monthly $39 Totals $468 per year $39/month Get Started Totals $468 per year Starter $30 for 3 months, then $399/year $30 for 3 months Get Started Then $399/year Annual $399 Save 15% $399/year Get Started Save 15% 11+ Users Custom Savings start at 25%! Request A Quote Request A Quote Savings start at 25%! 2-10 Users $300 Annually per user $300/year Get Started $300 Annually per user View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Log In pharmalittle, STAT+ Submit a correction requestReprints Ed Silverman Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morning Pharmalittle newsletter and the afternoon Pharmalot newsletter. Newsletter Understand how science, health policy, and medicine shape the world every day Recommended Pharmalot July 10, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about bigger drug discounts in Germany, drugmakers embracing secrecy, and more Pharmalot July 9, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about FDA commissioner contenders, a heart drug failure, and more Advertisement Pharmalot July 8, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about a Vera kidney drug approval, a U.K. Enhertu pricing deal, and more Pharmalot July 7, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about a $10 billion Vertex deal, the pace of FDA drug approvals, and more Pharmalot July 6, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about a Novartis acquisition, Republicans backing clinical trial diversity, and more Subscriber Picks