The world of #medicine is continually evolving, with new #drugs being developed at an unprecedented pace. Here are a few interesting facts about recently developed drugs that are making waves in the #healthcare industry.
1. The FDA approved a record-breaking 59 new drugs in 2018, surpassing the previous record of 53 in 1996. This trend continues with 48 new drugs already approved in 2020.
2. One of the most groundbreaking new drugs is Zolgensma, a gene therapy drug for spinal muscular atrophy. At $2.1 million per patient, it’s currently the most expensive drug in the world.
3. The first drug to treat postpartum depression, Zulresso, was approved in 2019. It’s a significant breakthrough, as this condition affects about 1 in 9 new mothers.
4. A new class of drugs, known as PCSK9 inhibitors, has shown promising results in drastically lowering LDL cholesterol levels, potentially preventing heart disease.
5. The first FDA-approved drug derived from marijuana, Epidiolex, treats severe forms of epilepsy. This approval marked a significant shift in the recognition of the medicinal properties of cannabis.
6. Biogen’s Aduhelm, recently approved in 2021, is the first new Alzheimer’s drug in nearly 20 years. It’s also the first to target the disease process of Alzheimer’s, rather than just the symptoms.
These developments signal a bright future for medical advancements, demonstrating the power of science and innovation in improving human health. It’s an exciting time to be part of the healthcare industry as we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in medicine.
