Abbott

2Q Revenues: $7.3 billion (+15%)

2Q Earnings: $1.3 billion (+34%)

YTD Revenues: $14.1 billion (+14%)

YTD Earnings: $2.3 billion (+34%)

Comments: Worldwide pharmaceutical sales increased 17% percent in the quarter to $4.1 billion, driven by Humira, Niaspan and Kaletra. Humira sales were $1.1 billion in the quarter (+48%), Niaspan sales were $194 million  (+14%) and Kaletra sales were $355 million (+13%). R&D expenses grew 13% to $657 million in the quarter. Pharmaceutical sales were $8.0 billion for the first half of the year (+16%). Humira sales reached nearly $2.0 billion in 1H08 (+51%).

3M Drug Delivery Systems has designed a proof-of-concept device using a solid microstructured transdermal system (sMTS) for the systemic delivery of high potency pharmaceuticals. The technology was showcased this week at the annual meeting of the Controlled Release Society in New York, where John K. Simons, Ph.D., microstructured transdermal project manager at the company, explained the in vivo data, including depth of penetration, timed release, and demonstration of systemic delivery.

The research findings showed that the delivery of naloxone via an sMTS patch was comparable to a subcutaneous injection with regard to bioavailability and pharmacokinetic (PK) profile. Time-release data showed that the dosage was delivered quickly after the patch was placed on the skin, with the majority of the initial array content delivered within 30 seconds. This data along with the systemic delivery studies, confirmed that efficient systemic delivery is possible with coated microstructures. 3M's sMTS technology was previously used for vaccine delivery and this new application expands the range of APIs that can be delivered transdermally.
   
"This technology will help pharmaceutical providers differentiate their products with a minimally invasive and more comfortable self-administration method," said Dr. Simons.

Novartis has extended its RNAi therapeutics collaboration with Alnylam Pharmaceuticals through October 2009. The alliance was initiated in October 2005 and is focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of RNAi therapeutics toward a defined number of Novartis-selected disease gene targets.
   
“Our efforts with Novartis have been very productive over the past three years, and we are delighted that Novartis has elected to extend our alliance for another year,” said John Maraganore, Ph.D., chief executive officer of Alnylam. “Novartis was a pioneer in recognizing the potential of RNAi therapeutics as a new class of medicines, and we look forward to continuing our work with them as we advance this innovation to patients.”
   
Under the agreement, both companies are responsible for RNAi discovery activities and Novartis is responsible for development and commercialization of RNAi therapeutic products. With the extension of the alliance term, Novartis will continue to fund R&D efforts conducted by Alnylam. Novartis also retains its right to exercise a non-exclusive platform license from Alnylam in exchange for an undisclosed payment and future milestones and royalties. In addition, Novartis has the option to extend the collaboration for an additional one-year term through 2010. Novartis retains certain rights to purchase Alnylam equity up to 19.9%; current Novartis ownership is approximately 13.4%.