News Hub | News Direct

Citius Pharmaceuticals Nears Market Breakthrough With Two Leading Products

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga From fighting cancer to treating bloodstream infections, Citius Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: CTXR) is busy trying to solve some of the world’s ills. That’s picking up steam with two of its lead products close to commercialization. Take Mino-Lok (MLT), Citius Pharmaceuticals ' novel antibiotic lock solution that combines minocycline, ethanol and edetate disodium to treat patients with catheter-related blood stream infections. Mino-Lok offers hospitals an alternative to removing and replacing a central venous catheter (CVC), and that could reduce the number of serious adverse events like air embolism and bleeding. It could also save hospitals money. Bringing It To The Market Citius Pharmaceuticals CEO and co-founder Leonard Mazur told Benzinga that his company has “extremely positive” topline data from a Phase 3 Trial of Mino-Lok. Now Citius is meeting with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to move ahead with Mino-Lok, he said. Once Mino-Lok is approved, the company says it will be the only FDA-backed product for infected catheters in the market, presenting a big opportunity for the company. “The market potential is about $2 billion,” said Mazur. “Positive announcements will come out of the meeting but I can’t predict that moment.” Then there is LYMPHIR, a recombinant fusion protein designed to treat T-cell lymphomas. The drug agent combines the interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor binding domain with diphtheria toxin fragments. The agent specifically binds to IL-2 receptors on the cell surface, causing diphtheria toxin fragments that have entered cells to inhibit protein synthesis. In 2011 and 2013, the FDA granted orphan drug designation to LYMPHIR for the treatment of peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) and Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). In 2021, Citius acquired an exclusive license with rights to develop and commercialize LYMPHIR in all markets except for Japan and certain other parts of Asia. In March this year, the FDA accepted Citius’s Biologics License Application (BLA) for LYMPHIR with a decision expected on August 13, the FDA's assigned Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) action date. If approved, Citius is preparing for LYMPHIR commercialization later this year. “We’re very excited about this launching during the fourth quarter,” said Mazur. “We go from no revenue to revenues.” The executive pegged the market opportunity at $300 to $400 million, telling Benzinga LYMPHIR is an additive and won’t take market share from anyone. Shoring Up Shareholder Value Bringing two drug products to market isn't the only way Citius is enhancing shareholder value. The company is also spinning out its wholly-owned oncology unit to form Citius Oncology, a stand-alone publicly traded entity. It is doing it via a SPAC deal with TenX Keane (NASDAQ: TENK). Citius Pharma is getting 67.5 million shares in Citius Oncology at $10 per share, valuing the stake at $675 million and will retain majority ownership of approximately 90%. This transaction is expected to unlock significant value for Citius shareholders by separating the oncology business, potentially leading to increased access to capital markets and further development of new applications and additional intellectual property, reports Citius. It also underscores Citius’s strategy to purchase assets, develop them and bring them to market and then unlock shareholder value. Citius Oncology will serve as a platform to develop and commercialize novel targeted oncology therapies, with LYMPHIR the first to go to market. The company said the deal is expected to provide Citius Oncology with improved access to the public equity markets and thereby facilitate the commercialization of LYMPHIR and position the company to explore additional value-creating opportunities more fully. “The reason we are doing it is we get a Nasdaq listing by having the SPAC acquire the assets and at the same time it enables us to do something to prevent dilution for shareholders,” said Mazur. The CEO counts himself as one of them; he has invested $22.5 million of his own money in the business. “During the first year on the market we will be profitable. All that benefits Citius shareholders.” Featured photo by Nataliya Smirnova on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

July 30, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

Pancreatic Cancer Could Overtake Colorectal Cancer To Become Second Leading Cause Of Cancer Death – Oncolytics Is Working On A Promising Treatment

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga Pancreatic cancer isn’t something that only happens to those who smoke, are overweight, have a family history of the condition, or are older than 55. Increasingly, women and younger adults are getting diagnosed with this deadly form of cancer. It’s alarming, given one study found that in the U.S., the incidence of pancreatic cancer among those under the age of 55 is increasingly more rapidly than in those 55+. While pancreatic cancer is now the third leading cause of cancer deaths, by 2030, it is expected to morph into second place, surpassing colorectal cancer deaths. This year alone, about 66,440 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, a record for this deadly form of cancer. What’s more, about 51,750 Americans are expected to die from the disease this year. Among cancers, pancreatic is a tough one to treat. It’s a highly aggressive form of cancer that attacks the pancreas, an organ needed for digestion. With limited treatment options, the five-year survival rate is just 13%. It doesn’t help that most people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in a late stage when it has already spread to other parts of the body. That’s particularly true with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which is a type of pancreatic cancer that’s created from the cells that line the ducts of the pancreas. It's one of the most lethal forms of pancreatic cancer. A person’s health, lifestyle, diet, age and family history all play a role in whether they will get this lethal disease, and changing lifestyles may be a factor in the rise in the condition’s prevalence. Given the difficulty of treating pancreatic cancer and its increasing incidence, much medical research is directed toward earlier detection and better treatments. As a result, the global pancreatic cancer market is projected to reach $7.4 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 13.7% during the forecast period. Your Immune System Fired Up One area of treatment that holds promise is immunotherapies. Administered as a pill, injection, or intravenously, immunotherapies help the body’s immune system attack cancer cells. On its own, the immune system has difficulty finding and attacking cancer cells but with these therapies, it can be an avid hunter. That’s exactly what Oncolytics Biotech Inc. (NASDAQ: ONCY), the clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in immunotherapeutics for oncology, is betting will happen with pelareorep, its leading agent to fight pancreatic cancer that has demonstrated promising results in phase 1 and 2 studies. It is an intravenously delivered immunotherapeutic agent that induces anti-cancer immune responses and promotes an inflamed tumor phenotype — turning “cold” tumors “hot.” Pelareorep works by generating, recruiting and training immune cells to recognize and kill cancer while remodeling the tumor microenvironment to enable immune cell access. When added to existing treatment regimens such as chemotherapy, pelareorep demonstrates the potential to extend survival times in addition to expanding existing and new T cell clones in the blood, the company reports. Testing Under Way Pelareorep is being tested in the GOBLET study, a phase 1/2 multiple-indication study in advanced or metastatic gastrointestinal cancers conducted at 17 centers in Germany. The aim of the study, which kicked off in fall 2021, is to investigate the safety of the drug combination and improvements in tumor size. The GOBLET study was recently expanded to include a new cohort to test pelareorep and modified FOLFIRINOX (mFOLFIRINOX) with or without atezolizumab (Tecentriq®) in newly diagnosed metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients. mFOLFIRINOX is a chemotherapy treatment for pancreatic cancer that combines several drugs. The new cohort, which is testing the objective response rate (ORR) and safety, is supported by the $5 million Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) Therapeutic Accelerator Award. The grant was established to accelerate the development of new treatments for pancreatic cancer patients. Hitting Milestones Oncolytics Biotech recently dosed the first patient in that expanded cohort, marking a major milestone for the company. “We’re excited to begin evaluating another pelareorep combination therapy that could result in a second pancreatic cancer registration program for the company,” said Thomas Heineman, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Medical Officer at Oncolytics. “The combination of pelareorep, atezolizumab, gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel in pancreatic cancer patients more than doubled tumor response rates compared to earlier trials of chemotherapy alone. That combination received Fast Track Designation from the FDA and is expected to be evaluated in an adaptive registration-enabling trial through the Global Coalition for Adaptive Research (GCAR). If the combination of pelareorep and mFOLFIRINOX also demonstrates a promising efficacy signal, we could have two pancreatic cancer treatment regimens on the path to registration.” The trial is being closely watched because of the promise the treatment holds if it proves successful. mFOLFIRINOX is currently considered one of two primary treatment options for many pancreatic cancer patients. If pelareorep is effective, it could broaden the population of metastatic pancreatic cancer patients who could benefit from pelareorep-based therapies, the company reports. “Oncolytics is in a favorable position as we prepare to advance multiple pelareorep programs toward registration track studies and continue to expand pelareorep’s potential as a backbone immunotherapy that can impact various tumor types,” said Dr. Matt Coffey, President and Chief Executive Officer of Oncolytics. “The ability to improve the lives of cancer patients is something that motivates everyone at Oncolytics, and beginning to treat pancreatic cancer patients in the mFOLFIRINOX cohort of GOBLET is hopefully yet another step towards that goal.” Featured photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

July 30, 2024 08:35 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

MIRA Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: MIRA) Reports Promising Pre-Clinical Trial Results For Mental Health Treatment, To Submit Investigational New Drug Application By End Of Year

MIRA Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga From cognitive impairments to depression-related illnesses, the current treatments aren’t doing enough. Sure, some may bring relief to the millions of people worldwide affected by neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, but they come with a lot of side effects and accessibility challenges that can render them less than ideal. That leaves a gap in effective, safe and affordable solutions. MIRA Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: MIRA) may have the answer. This preclinical-stage pharmaceutical company is focused on transforming the treatment of mental health disorders through scientific research and technological advancements. It's betting that its two compounds, MIRA-55 and Ketamir-2, will revolutionize mental health care. Take MIRA-55 for starters. The novel compound aims to deliver the therapeutic benefits of THC and CBD without their associated side effects, such as increased appetite, paranoia and cognitive decline. It’s currently under investigation for treating neuropathic pain, anxiety and cognitive enhancements without the impurities of marijuana. In preclinical studies, MIRA-55 has shown the ability to double the memory of mice, in contrast to THC, which is known to impair memory, reports MIRA. MIRA-55 could be particularly beneficial for patients seeking cognitive enhancements and anxiety relief without the downside of impaired memory or other side effects. Meanwhile, Ketamir-2, an oral ketamine analog designed to be taken as a pill, is being investigated for its potential antidepressant effects, particularly for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation. Unlike traditional ketamine, which requires intravenous administration – posing accessibility and safety challenges – Ketamir-2 aims to simplify and improve the treatment experience. The Science Behind Ketamir-2 Recent preclinical data reveals that Ketamir-2 selectively inhibits the NMDA receptor at the PCP-binding site, avoiding interactions with opioid receptors, dopamine, serotonin transporters, and acetylcholine receptors. This unique selectivity may reduce side effects typically associated with traditional ketamine. Ketamir-2 has a 30- to 50-fold lower affinity to the PCP site compared to ketamine, which itself has about 10-fold lower affinity than PCP (Phencyclidine, Angel Dust). This is significant because ketamine was developed to be similar to PCP but with lower affinity, thereby reducing the risk of psychoactive side effects. In this respect, advocates consider Ketamir-2 a third-generation drug. Moreover, Ketamir-2 is optimized for brain delivery. It is not a substrate for P-glycoprotein (P-gp), a membrane protein that pumps drugs out of cells, including those in the brain. This characteristic could allow Ketamir-2 to have better oral absorption and penetrate the blood-brain barrier more effectively than traditional ketamine, enhancing its therapeutic potential and bioavailability. Ketamir-2's oral bioavailability is predicted to be around 80%, which is significantly higher than traditional ketamine's 30%. Preclinical studies have shown that oral Ketamir-2 is safe at high doses and effective in several antidepressant and anxiolytic models. It does not appear to induce hyper-locomotor activity – a common side effect of traditional ketamine – and has shown no interaction with the mu-opioid receptor. MIRA says this could potentially mean a reduced risk of opioid-related side effects and dependency. Recent studies further highlight Ketamir-2's anti-depressive and anxiolytic effects in a mouse model, with significant improvements in behavioral tests compared to traditional ketamine. A Step Toward Improved Patient Care If MIRA is right about Ketamir-2, it has the potential to significantly positively impact mental health care, potentially helping millions of people through improved access and affordability. Traditional ketamine treatment for depression requires a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) protocol due to its potential for abuse and severe side effects. This involves strict regulations, including the need for intravenous administration under medical supervision, making it less accessible and more costly for patients. In contrast, Ketamir-2, as an oral formulation, aims to provide a more convenient and less intimidating treatment option, with the ease of taking a pill at home potentially leading to better adherence to treatment regimens compared to frequent hospital visits for IV infusions. By reducing the need for medical supervision and hospital visits, Ketamir-2 could enhance patient compliance and decrease overall treatment costs. Furthermore, MIRA reports that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has conducted a scientific review of both MIRA-55 and Ketamir-2 and determined that neither compound is classified as a controlled substance – significantly easing their regulatory pathway. Exploring New Frontiers: Orphan Drug Indications MIRA's journey doesn't stop at common mental health disorders. The company is exploring Ketamir-2's potential efficacy in treating chemotherapy-induced depression and cancer-related neuropathic pain. These conditions often have limited treatment options and significant patient populations in need of effective therapies. Moreover, due to its novel chemical profile, MIRA is investigating options for orphan drug indications such as multiple sclerosis-induced depression and Huntington's disease-induced depression. The company believes these rare conditions could benefit from innovative treatments like Ketamir-2. Market Potential And Patient Population The market potential for MIRA Pharmaceuticals' compounds is substantial. Cognitive impairments, including conditions like Alzheimer's disease and dementia, affect millions of individuals. Close to seven million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer's, a number expected to rise to nearly 13 million by 2050, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Meanwhile, anxiety disorders affect over 40 million adults in the United States, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. For depression, particularly treatment-resistant depression, the numbers are equally staggering. Approximately 17.6 million Americans are diagnosed with major depressive disorder, with 5.5 million reporting suicidal ideation and about 2 million having suicidal ideation with intent. The annual burden of medication-treated major depressive disorder in the United States is estimated at $92.7 billion, with $43.8 billion attributable to treatment-resistant depression. Looking Ahead: The Path To Regulatory Approval MIRA Pharmaceuticals reports that it is on track to submit an Investigational New Drug (IND) application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by the end of this year. If granted, this would pave the way for human clinical trials, bringing Ketamir-2 closer to becoming a new standard of care for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. The company's commitment to advancing these compounds underscores its mission to address the unmet needs of patients suffering from debilitating conditions like depression, TRD and PTSD. For more information about MIRA Pharmaceuticals and its novel compounds, visit MIRA Pharmaceuticals. Featured photo by Yuris Alhumaydy on Unsplash. MIRA Pharmaceuticals, Inc., is a pre-clinical-stage pharmaceutical development company with two neuroscience programs targeting a broad range of neurologic and neuropsychiatric disorders. We hold exclusive license rights in the U.S., Canada and Mexico for Ketamir-2, a novel, patent pending oral ketamine analog under pre-clinical investigation to potentially deliver ultra-rapid antidepressant effects, providing hope for individuals battling treatment-resistant depression (“TRD”), major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation (MDSI), and potentially post-traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”). The statements of the Company's management related thereto contains "forward-looking statements," which are statements other than historical facts made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements may be identified by words such as "aims," "anticipates," "believes," "could," "estimates," "expects," "forecasts," "goal," "intends," "may," "plans," "possible," "potential," "seeks," "will," and variations of these words or similar expressions that are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical facts may be deemed forward-looking. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the anticipated benefits of the study results described herein as well as the timing for the Company's other preclinical studies and the filing of an IND for Ketamir-2 and MIRA-55. Any forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current expectations, estimates and projections only as of the date of this release and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties (many of which are beyond the Company's control) that could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those set forth in or implied by such forward-looking statements. These and other risks concerning the Company's programs and operations are described in additional detail in Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and other SEC filings, which are on file with the SEC at www.sec.gov and the Company's website at https://www.mirapharmaceuticals.com/investors/sec-filings. The Company explicitly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except to the extent required by law. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Michelle Yanez Myanez@mirapharma.com Company Website http://www.mirapharmaceuticals.com/

July 29, 2024 11:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

AGC Biologics’ Seattle Site Achieves Successful Multi-Product Inspection by U.S. Food and Drug Administration for Biologics License Applications

AGC Biologics

AGC Biologics, a leading global Biopharmaceutical Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), announced today that its Seattle Campus completed a new commercial milestone for regulatory compliance in 2024. The site supported a multi-product inspection in March 2024 with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to support Biologics License Applications (BLA) for new products seeking commercial approval in the U.S., two of which are now approved for commercial production at the facility. The two approved products include a fusion protein-based drug for treating bladder cancer and a monoclonal antibody (mAb) for treating macular degeneration. AGC Biologics Seattle predicts delivering multiple batches per year for the biopharma partners that received the approvals and accommodating increases in future demand. “This achievement is significant for this site, our team members and our partners in the pharmaceutical industry seeking to bring products from clinical stages to commercial approval,” notes Michael Tranmer, General Manager of AGC Biologics Seattle. “Inspections for multiple products at one time is not easy. This accomplishment is a true testament to our commitment to quality and regulatory compliance and helping developers reach their goals as fast and efficiently as possible.” This is the latest achievement for the Seattle-based CDMO manufacturing site, which has produced six commercial products for AGC Biologics. This includes three commercial approvals in the last two years. AGC Biologics Seattle is active in helping clients navigate clinical milestones, as well. The site team is working with several clinical-stage companies and predicts more commercial license application submissions in the coming 18 to 24 months. AGC Biologics runs multiple mammalian cGMP manufacturing lines and a variety of scales at its Seattle site. The campus serves as a center of excellence for formulation and employs the latest fed-batch and perfusion manufacturing processes. Over the last year, AGC Biologics Seattle has also expanded. This work includes a new microbial-based manufacturing line system and a state-of-the-art 67,000 sq. ft. GMP-compliant warehouse to further enhance the quality, efficiency and operational excellence of the site. To learn more about AGC Biologics’ protein biologics manufacturing site in Seattle, visit www.agcbio.com/facilities/seattle. For more information on the company’s end-to-end global CDMO services in the U.S., Europe, and Japan visit www.agcbio.com. About AGC Biologics: AGC Biologics is a leading global biopharmaceutical Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) with a strong commitment to delivering the highest standard of service as we work side-by-side with our clients and partners, every step of the way. We provide world-class development and manufacture of mammalian and microbial-based therapeutic proteins, plasmid DNA (pDNA), messenger RNA (mRNA), viral vectors, and genetically engineered cells. Our global network spans the U.S., Europe, and Asia, with cGMP-compliant facilities in Seattle, Washington; Boulder and Longmont, Colorado; Copenhagen, Denmark; Heidelberg, Germany; Milan, Italy; and Chiba, Japan. We currently employ more than 2,500 Team Members worldwide. Our commitment to continuous innovation fosters the technical creativity to solve our clients’ most complex challenges, including specialization in fast-track projects and rare diseases. AGC Biologics is a part of AGC Inc.’s Life Science Company. The Life Science company runs more than 10 global facilities focused on biopharmaceuticals, advanced therapies, small molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients, and agrochemicals. To learn more, visit www.agcbio.com. Contact Details Nick McDonald +1 425-419-3555 nmcdonald@agcbio.com Company Website https://www.agcbio.com/

July 29, 2024 05:30 AM Pacific Daylight Time

BestGrowthStocks.Com Issues a Comprehensive Analysis of Tivic Health Systems Potential Catalysts

Tivic Health Systems Inc.

NEW YORK, NY / NewsDirect / July 29, 2024 / Best Growth Stocks, a leading independent equity research and corporate access firm focused on finding and reporting on the best growth stocks utilizing exclusive ai-assisted research recently issued a comprehensive analysis on Tivic Health Systems Inc. a health tech company that develops and commercializes bioelectronic medicine. Tivic Health Systems Inc. (NASDAQ: TIVC) recently announced the expansion of its intellectual property portfolio with three new patents granted in the US and Europe. Best Growth Stocks full report breaks through the noise and offers an extensive comprehensive analysis of Tivic Health Systems operations, potential catalysts, pipeline, patents, share structure, recent news events, growth strategy, financials, chart support and resistance zones, and more. Access this full analysis free here: https://bestgrowthstocks.com/access-tivc-analysis/ Access the full analysis free here: https://bestgrowthstocks.com/access-tivc-analysis/ About Tivic Tivic is a commercial health tech company advancing the field of bioelectronic medicine. Tivic’s patented technology platform leverages stimulation on the trigeminal, sympathetic, and vagus nerve structures. Tivic’s non-invasive and targeted approach to the treatment of inflammatory chronic health conditions gives consumers and providers drug-free therapeutic solutions with high safety profiles, low risk, and broad applications. Tivic’s first commercial product ClearUP is an FDA approved, award-winning, handheld bioelectronic sinus device. ClearUP is clinically proven, doctor-recommended, and is available through online retailers and commercial distributors. For more information visit http://tivichealth.com. About Best Growth Stocks Best Growth Stocks is a leading independent equity research and corporate access firm focused on finding and reporting on the best growth stocks utilizing our exclusive ai-assisted research. BGS is also a financial news provider, focused on giving investors direct access to CEOs of promising, publicly-traded companies, and market experts. Our CEO interviews aim to answer the questions that rest on the minds of current and future shareholders. This is not to be construed as financial advice. Please consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Media Contact Best Growth Stocks Senior Editor: Steve Macalbry Editor@BestGrowthStocks.com Contact Details Best Growth Stocks Steve Macalbry Editor@bestgrowthstocks.com

July 29, 2024 04:25 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

This Men’s Telehealth Company Has A Unique Take On Telehealth And Products

Benzinga

By Johnny Rice, Benzinga Jacob Cohen, CEO of Mango Rx (NASDAQ: MGRX), was recently a guest on Benzinga’s All-Access. Mangoceuticals is focused on developing a variety of men's health and wellness products and services via a secure telemedicine platform. To date, the company has identified men's wellness telemedicine services and products as a growing sector especially related to the area of erectile dysfunction (ED), hair growth, and hormone replacement therapies. Learn more here: Featured photo by Taylor Grote on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

July 25, 2024 09:05 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video Image

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Mideast Delivery Solutions and SPS Health

Benchmark International

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the successful transaction between Mideast Delivery Solutions and SPS Health. The seller, Mideast Delivery Solutions, was established in 2014 and quickly became a leader in providing the timely and secure delivery of pharmaceuticals and critical healthcare supplies in their respective markets. Based in Mason, Ohio, the company specializes in servicing long-term care pharmacies, ensuring reliable and efficient deliveries tailored to the specific needs of their clients. Their services include daily delivery route coordination, STAT order coverage, and comprehensive consulting to optimize logistics. With a strong commitment to client satisfaction, they have earned the trust and respect of numerous healthcare providers over the years. Paul Hester, President of Mideast Delivery Solutions, had this to say about the transaction: "Matthew Kekelis, I want to thank you and your team for making an important process seem extremely smooth! A special thank you to Tyler Gonska for navigating me through the events! It was not an easy decision for me to go to market, but everyone at Benchmark International made each step of the way very comfortable. I highly recommend Benchmark International for any business!" The Buyer, SPS Health, is a leading provider of comprehensive solutions for healthcare providers in the acute care and post-acute marketplace. They offer an extensive portfolio of services and solutions for pharmacies, healthcare providers, and PBMs, including formulary management, on-demand pharmacy, and benefit administration. The company's focus on integrating advanced technologies ensures seamless operations, improved patient outcomes, and increased efficiency for healthcare providers. SPS will continue to prioritize exceptional customer service, innovations, and best-in-class technology with the addition of Mideast Delivery. "Paul with Mideast Delivery has built himself an incredible business and is turning over a well-oiled machine to SPS. We at Benchmark wish all the best to Paul in his future endeavors as well as SPS to continue Mideast's exceptional service." – Matthew Kekelis, Senior Director, Benchmark International Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350/ Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL: Benchmark International is a global M&A firm that provides business owners with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. Benchmark International has handled over $11 billion in transaction value across various industries from offices across the world. With decades of M&A experience, Benchmark International’s transaction teams have assisted business owners with achieving their objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses. The firm has also been named the Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor and the Global M&A Network as well as the #1 Sell-side Exclusive Privately-held M&A Advisor in the World by Pitchbook and Refinitiv's Global League Tables. Contact Details Brittney Zoeller +1 813-898-2350 zoeller@benchmarkintl.com Company Website https://www.benchmarkintl.com/

July 25, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

This Pharma Company Is Preparing To Launch Its Lead Candidate

Benzinga

By Johnny Rice, Benzinga Leonard Mazur, CEO and founder of Citius Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: CTXR), was recently interviewed by Benzinga. Citius Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of first-in-class critical care products, with a pipeline of anti-infectives in adjunct cancer care, stem cell therapy, and unique prescription products. Mazur spoke about the exciting developments in the company’s assets, including the imminent launch of its first drug on the market. Learn more here: Featured photo by freestocks on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

July 25, 2024 08:58 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video Image

News Release

Emerging Telemedicine Leaders: Stocks Shaping Healthcare's Digital Future

MGRX, HIMS, GDRX, TDOC

The telemedicine market is not just growing; it's booming. Valued at USD 97.48 billion in 2022 and projected to surge to USD 430.72 billion by 2031, with a robust CAGR of 17.95%, telemedicine is revolutionizing healthcare delivery worldwide. This industry uses telecommunications technology to provide remote patient consultations, diagnostics, and treatment, effectively bridging geographical barriers and lowering healthcare costs. Investors are increasingly drawn to this dynamic and transformative segment as demand for telemedicine grows, owing to its proven benefits in terms of accessibility and efficiency. Now, let's explore four stocks poised to capitalize on the potential growth in telemedicine. Mangoceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: MGRX), also known as MangoRx, is a pioneering force in men’s health and wellness, leveraging a secure telemedicine platform to offer a diverse array of products. The company's focus spans from hair growth solutions to hormone replacement therapies, with recent strides into the nutraceutical market marking a transformative expansion. Highlighting its commitment to innovation, MangoRx recently acquired a global patent portfolio aimed at preventing infections such as the common cold and HPV. This strategic move underscores MangoRx's pivot towards non-prescription, nutraceutical-based products featuring proprietary ingredients like GALALCOOL and zinc protoporphyrin IX. These components synergistically combat oral and respiratory infections, showcasing MangoRx’s dedication to preventive healthcare solutions. Financially, MangoRx reported a remarkable 108% revenue growth in the first quarter of 2024, reaching $214,000 compared to $100,000 in the same period last year. This substantial increase reflects successful customer acquisition strategies and early market penetration initiatives. Notably, the introduction of a direct-to-clinic sales division has further solidified recurring revenue streams by enabling healthcare professionals to prescribe MangoRx products directly. Securing DEA authorization for its HIPAA-compliant telemedicine platform through Surescripts marks a significant regulatory milestone for MGRX. This authorization allows the company to expand its product offerings to include controlled medications such as hormone replacement therapies, positioning MGRX at the forefront of telemedicine innovation. Amanda Hammer, COO of MangoRx, emphasized the transformative impact of this milestone, stating, “This authorization through Surescripts propels MangoRx into a new phase of growth, empowering us to introduce innovative products while maintaining rigorous regulatory compliance.” Internationally, MGRX has forged a strategic partnership with the International Society of Frontier Life Sciences and Technology (ISFLST), aimed at distributing its products in key markets including China, the Asia Pacific region, and Latin America (excluding Mexico). This collaboration leverages ISFLST’s extensive network to introduce MangoRx’s advanced health solutions to burgeoning markets, aligning with the company’s global expansion strategy. Innovation remains a cornerstone of MGRX's approach, highlighted by the initiation of efficacy studies on its patented respiratory illness prevention technology. These studies, announced on July 24, are conducted in collaboration with Vipragen Biosciences and IntraMont Technologies, Inc. They aim to validate the technology’s ability to prevent various viral infections, including H1N1 variants, Avian Flu, the common cold, and Coronavirus. James Intrator, CEO of IntraMont Technologies, expressed confidence in the technology’s potential, highlighting its unique mechanism of binding to viral proteins and acting as a barrier against respiratory viruses. The composition being tested contains a select tannin (enhanced polyphenol) and zinc gluconate. Previous research at Moscow State University showed a 93% decrease in active virus compared to the control group. The product is anticipated to be available as a lozenge or toothpaste, targeting the global influenza market valued at $8.28 billion in 2023. Mangoceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: MGRX) continues to lead in men’s health and wellness through strategic acquisitions, innovative product development, and expansive international outreach. Jacob Cohen, co-founder and CEO of MangoRx, reiterated the company’s mission, stating, “We are dedicated to advancing global health through innovative solutions. Our ongoing efforts in research, strategic partnerships, and product diversification position MangoRx to address critical healthcare needs worldwide.” Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE: HIMS) is a leading health and wellness platform committed to helping individuals feel great through better health. The company believes that how you feel in your body and mind transforms how you show up in life, driving its mission to build a future where nothing stands in the way of harnessing this power. By normalizing health and wellness challenges and innovating solutions, Hims & Hers makes feeling happy and healthy accessible. The company offers personalized care designed for effective results, acknowledging that no two people are the same. HIMS shares have shown remarkable growth potential, with shares up 150% year to date. This impressive performance positions Hims & Hers as an attractive option for investors, thanks to its rapid expansion, vast addressable market, and reasonable valuation. In the first quarter, the company reported a 46% year-over-year revenue increase, reaching $278.2 million. This growth was driven by a 41% increase in subscribers. With an impressive gross margin of 82%, Hims & Hers has the financial leeway to invest significantly in marketing, spending $130.6 million in the latest period. The company's long-term growth is supported by its early mover advantage, which allows it to capitalize on economies of scale and potential network effects by monetizing anonymized user data. In May, Hims & Hers launched a compounded GLP-1 weight loss injection at $199 per month, which is 85% less than brand-name versions like Ozempic and Wegovy sold by Novo Nordisk. Hims & Hers recently strengthened its leadership by appointing Kare Schultz to its Board of Directors. Schultz brings decades of leadership experience in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries from organizations like Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, Lundbeck, and Novo Nordisk. His experience is expected to be invaluable, as Hims & Hers aims to redefine health and wellness for its customers. Andrew Dudum, CEO and co-founder of HIMS, expressed excitement about Schultz joining the board, stating, "We are in a transformative moment for healthcare with the opportunity to make life-changing treatments accessible to all who need them. Kare's experience gives us an incredible wealth of expertise." Schultz also shared his enthusiasm, saying, "Hims & Hers is on a trajectory to upend the healthcare industry. In my long career, this is the first company I have seen leveraging modern tools to break down barriers and change the status quo." With a combination of rapid growth, strategic leadership appointments, and innovative product offerings, Hims & Hers is certainly a telehealth stock to watch this year. GoodRx Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: GDRX) is the top prescription savings platform in the U.S., helping over 25 million consumers and 750,000 healthcare professionals each year. Since its inception in 2011, the company has facilitated nearly $75 billion in savings on medications. GoodRx offers affordable options for both generic and brand-name drugs at over 70,000 pharmacies nationwide and provides valuable healthcare information. Recently, analysts at TD Cowen reaffirmed their positive outlook on GRX by maintaining a buy rating and a $16.00 price target. This confidence follows GoodRx’s announcement of a new biosimilar to Humira, an anti-inflammatory drug. The biosimilar, produced by Boehringer Ingelheim, will be available exclusively on GoodRx’s platform at $550 per two-pack—a 92% discount compared to Humira’s list price. This strategic move enhances GoodRx’s platform, positioning it as a key player in affordable medication options. The discount on Humira, a top-selling prescription drug globally, is expected to attract more users to GoodRx, potentially boosting its revenue and market position. Analysts view this as a significant growth opportunity within GoodRx’s business model. In addition to the Humira biosimilar, GDRX has partnered with Boehringer Ingelheim to provide the low-cost Adalimumab-adbm, now available at over 70,000 pharmacies. The company's upcoming quarterly report is anticipated to show 9% year-over-year growth in Monthly Active Consumers (MACs), supporting a positive revenue trajectory. GDRX has also made strides by appointing tech veteran Simon Patterson to its Board of Directors and setting ambitious financial targets, including over $1 billion in revenue and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 35%+ by 2026. With ongoing initiatives and a robust market presence, GoodRx continues to enhance its value proposition and growth potential. Teladoc Health (NYSE: TDOC) is at the forefront of virtual care, committed to enhancing the healthcare experience through personalized and comprehensive virtual services. Leveraging over two decades of expertise, Teladoc Health aims to support individuals throughout their entire health journey with advanced technology and data-driven insights. Despite its leadership in whole-person virtual care, Teladoc Health has faced significant challenges this year. The stock has dropped 56% due to disappointing quarterly earnings and mixed guidance. For Q1 2024, the company reported a net loss of $81.9 million, or 49 cents per share, slightly worse than the anticipated 47-cent loss. Revenue for the quarter reached $646.13 million, up 2.7% from the previous year. However, the company is grappling with high marketing and operating costs. On a brighter note, Teladoc is expanding its virtual nursing program, a strategic move to address the national nurse shortage. Additionally, its apps, which focus on managing diabetes, hypertension, and weight loss, are making strides in improving health outcomes by integrating physical and mental health activities. Looking ahead, analysts are optimistic about Teladoc’s recovery, projecting a 73% upside with a target price of $16.28. The recent appointment of Chuck Divita as CEO brings renewed hope. With his extensive experience in the healthcare sector, Divita is expected to steer Teladoc toward realizing its growth potential. Teladoc Health will report its Q2 2024 results on July 31, 2024, after market close, with a conference call scheduled at 4:30 p.m. E.T. to discuss the outcomes. Disclaimers: RazorPitch Inc. "RazorPitch" is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment adviser. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact may be forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward looking statements in this action may be identified through use of words such as projects, foresee, expects, will, anticipates, estimates, believes, understands, or that by statements indicating certain actions & quote; may, could, or might occur. Understand there is no guarantee past performance will be indicative of future results. Investing in micro-cap and growth securities is highly speculative and carries an extremely high degree of risk. It is possible that an investors investment may be lost or impaired due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. RazorPitch has been retained and compensated by Cambridge Consulting to assist in the production and distribution of content related to MGRX. RazorPitch is responsible for the production and distribution of this content. It should be expressly understood that under no circumstances does any information published herein represent a recommendation to buy or sell a security. This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer by RazorPitch or any third party service provider to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in this article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. RazorPitch is not a fiduciary by virtue of any persons use of or access to this content. Contact Details Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 mark@razorpitch.com

July 25, 2024 06:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time