STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about upbeat results for a Duchenne drug, Takeda layoffs, and much more

STAT PlusNewsletterPharmalot Pharmalittle: We’re reading about upbeat results for a Duchenne drug, Takeda layoffs, and much more Biogen reported mixed results from a mid-stage trial for an Alzheimer’s drug that targets tau Manage alerts for this article Email this article Share this article By Ed SilvermanMay 14, 2026 Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer Ed Silverman[email protected]Ed Silverman, a senior writer and Pharmalot columnist at STAT, has been covering the pharmaceutical industry for nearly three decades. He is also the author of the morning Pharmalittle newsletter and the afternoon Pharmalot newsletter. Rise and shine, everyone, another busy day is on the way. And it is getting off to a pleasant start here on the Pharmalot campus, where clear blue skies and comfy breezes are greeting us. Who could ask for anything more? Actually, we could — it is time to reheat the kettle for another cuppa stimulation. Our choice today is apple hibiscus. And here is a helpful tip — a teaspoon of honey enhances the flavors splendidly. Of course, you are invited to join us. For the full experience, we are now hawking replicas — take a look. Meanwhile, here are a few tidbits to help you along. As always, do keep in touch. We appreciate feedback, criticism, and tips. … Biogen reported mixed results from a mid-stage clinical trial investigating a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease that targets the protein tau that, like the better-known amyloid, is toxic to neurons and is believed to play a role in the cognitive decline of patients with the disease, STAT says. In the Phase 2 study, the Biogen drug, called diranersen, reduced levels of tau in the spinal fluid and brains of patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s. Those tau reductions also correlated to a slowing of cognitive decline. Reducing tau in the brain has been accomplished by other drugmakers with antibody treatments, but tying those reductions to a meaningful slowing of cognitive decline has been challenging. Multiple efforts to date have proven unsuccessful. With diranersen, Biogen is trying a different approach. The drawback is the drug must be administered via a spinal injection.Advertisement Takeda Pharmaceutical plans to cut about 4,500 jobs in fiscal year 2026, as it ‌pushes ahead with a restructuring to centralize corporate functions ‌and reduce costs, Reuters notes. The company expects annual savings of more than $1.27 billion by fiscal 2028, but did not provide details about the timeline and which ‌roles will be affected. Takeda has been in the midst ⁠of a years-long overhaul following its $62 billion acquisition of Shire in 2019, which expanded its global footprint but added debt and ​complexity. The company expects higher selling, general and administrative, and R&D expenses linked to ‌upcoming product ⁠launches, including a narcolepsy treatment, a blood disorder drug, and a psoriasis medicine, but said much of the increase would be offset by the restructuring program. 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 Silverman, a senior writer and Pharmalot columnist at STAT, has been covering the pharmaceutical industry for nearly three decades. 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 May 13, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about FDA’s Makary resigning, a Lilly weight loss drug trial, and more Pharmalot May 12, 2026 STAT Plus: European Union inks a draft deal to boost local production of medicines and avoid shortages Advertisement Pharmalot May 12, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about pharma lobbying, Bristol’s deal with a Chinese partner, and more Pharmalot May 11, 2026 STAT Plus: Colombia wins a key court ruling over a compulsory license issued for an HIV medicine Pharmalot May 11, 2026 STAT Plus: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about Medicare and Alzheimer’s drugs, estrogen patch shortages, and more Subscriber Picks