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The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a combination regimen of Merck & Co.’s Keytruda (pembrolizumab) and Welireg (belzutifan) for the adjuvant treatment of adults with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) at risk of recurrence following surgery. The decision also extends to Keytruda Qlex, a subcutaneous formulation of the anti–PD-1 therapy (pembrolizumab/berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph), marking another step in Merck’s strategy to broaden Keytruda’s delivery formats and lifecycle. Phase III data underpinning approval The approval follows a priority review and is based on the Phase III LITESPARK-022 trial, which enrolled 1,841 patients who had undergone nephrectomy and were classified as intermediate-high or high risk of recurrence, or had resected metastatic disease with no evidence of active cancer. Patients were randomised to receive either Welireg plus Keytruda or Keytruda plus placebo in the adjuvant setting. At a prespecified interim analysis, the combination demonstrated a 28% improvement in disease-free survival (DFS), defined as time to recurrence, metastasis or death. There were 186 DFS events in the combination arm compared with 246 in the control group. Median DFS was not reached in either arm, and overall survival data remain immature. Expanding Welireg’s role in renal cell carcinoma Welireg (belzutifan), a HIF-2α inhibitor, already carries an indication in kidney cancer following its 2023 approval for previously treated advanced renal cell carcinoma patients who had received PD-(L)1 and VEGF-targeted therapies. The latest approval moves the therapy further upstream into the post-surgical adjuvant setting, reinforcing Merck’s intent to build a multi-line renal cancer franchise spanning both immunotherapy and targeted hypoxia pathways. Keytruda’s growing footprint in kidney cancer This marks Keytruda’s fourth approved indication in renal cell carcinoma. Earlier approvals include first-line advanced settings in combination with Pfizer’s Inlyta (axitinib) and Eisai’s Lenvima (lenvatinib), as well as a post-nephrectomy indication based on the KEYNOTE-564 study, where Keytruda demonstrated a 38% improvement in overall survival in high-risk patients. Taken together, these approvals consolidate Keytruda as a central backbone therapy across multiple stages of kidney cancer treatment. Competitive backdrop remains unresolved Despite the expanding evidence base for Keytruda-based combinations, treatment selection in renal cell carcinoma remains highly competitive. Some clinical experts continue to favour Bristol Myers Squibb’s Opdivo (nivolumab)-based combinations, citing ongoing uncertainty around optimal sequencing and long-term comparative outcomes across immuno-oncology regimens. This leaves the field open, with multiple checkpoint inhibitor combinations still competing for long-term dominance in both advanced and adjuvant kidney cancer settings. Outlook The Welireg–Keytruda approval strengthens Merck’s position in renal oncology by combining immunotherapy with targeted hypoxia biology in a high-risk post-surgical population. While the immediate clinical impact will depend on uptake and sequencing preferences, the broader strategic signal is clear: Merck is continuing to build depth across multiple mechanisms in kidney cancer rather than relying on single-agent dominance. Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

The approval provides adults aged 45 years and older at average risk of colorectal cancer with an additional blood-based screening option, expanding access for individuals who are overdue for screening. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved SimpleScreen™ CRC, Freenome's blood-based colorectal cancer screening test, for adults aged 45 years and older who are at average risk of the disease, marking the company's first commercial product. The approval expands the range of screening options available for eligible patients and may help increase screening uptake among individuals who are reluctant to undergo stool-based testing or colonoscopy, while not replacing established diagnostic pathways. Field Content Alert Type Drug Approval Drug Name SimpleScreen™ CRC Indication Blood-based screening for colorectal cancer in adults aged 45 years and older who are at average risk of colorectal cancer. Therapy Area(s) Oncology; Gastroenterology Geography US (FDA) What Happened The FDA approved SimpleScreen™ CRC on 27 July 2026 for colorectal cancer screening in adults aged 45 years and older who are at average risk of the disease. The approval gives Freenome its first FDA-approved commercial product and authorises Abbott, which holds exclusive US commercialisation rights, to launch the blood-based screening test in the US. The approval expands the range of FDA-authorised blood-based colorectal cancer screening options available for average-risk adults. Why It Matters The approval provides clinicians and eligible patients with an additional non-invasive colorectal cancer screening option. While blood-based testing does not replace colonoscopy or other recommended diagnostic pathways, it may improve participation among people who remain unscreened, helping to broaden access to recommended colorectal cancer screening. Supporting Context Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. Freenome estimates that up to 60 million eligible Americans are overdue for colorectal cancer screening, highlighting the need for additional screening options. Key Takeaway FDA approval of SimpleScreen™ CRC expands the range of blood-based colorectal cancer screening options available for average-risk adults aged 45 years and older. What to Watch Abbott plans to commercially launch SimpleScreen™ CRC in the United States during autumn 2026. Uptake, reimbursement and future updates to clinical screening recommendations will be important to monitor. Primary Source https://investors.freenome.com/news-releases/news-release-details/fda-approves-freenomes-simplescreentm-crc-blood-based-screening Relevant Date 27 July 2026 Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

The acquisition gives argenx full ownership of FB102, expanding its immunology pipeline with a first-in-class anti-CD122 antibody that has shown early clinical proof of concept in autoimmune disease. argenx has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Forte Biosciences in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $2.2 billion, or $77 per share, securing ownership of its lead asset, FB102, a first-in-class anti-CD122 antibody currently in Phase I development. The acquisition expands argenx's immunology portfolio with a clinically validated programme in vitiligo and coeliac disease and provides a platform for potential development in additional autoimmune conditions. Field Content Alert Type Deal Companies argenx; Forte Biosciences Deal Type Acquisition Asset or Company Forte Biosciences, including lead asset FB102 Therapy Area(s) Immunology; Autoimmune diseases; Dermatology; Gastroenterology Technology or Modality First-in-class anti-CD122 monoclonal antibody Deal Value Approximately $2.2 billion equity value. argenx will acquire all outstanding Forte Biosciences shares through a cash tender offer at $77 per share. No contingent milestone payments were disclosed. Development Stage Phase I (FB102) Geography Global What Happened argenx announced on 27 July 2026 that it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Forte Biosciences through a wholly owned subsidiary. The all-cash tender offer values Forte at approximately $2.2 billion ($77 per share). The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including shareholder tender requirements and US antitrust clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act, and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026. Following completion, argenx will obtain full ownership of FB102 and Forte's assets. Why It Matters The acquisition gives argenx direct access to a differentiated anti-CD122 programme with early clinical proof of concept in vitiligo and coeliac disease, broadening its immunology pipeline beyond its existing portfolio. It also adds a mechanism that targets pathogenic T-cell and NK-cell activity, potentially supporting future development across multiple autoimmune diseases, although further clinical development will determine its ultimate role. Supporting Context argenx stated that the acquisition builds on its previous strategic investment in Forte Biosciences. FB102 has reported positive Phase Ib data in vitiligo and previously demonstrated clinical activity in coeliac disease, forming the basis for the acquisition. Strategic Rationale argenx gains full control of a clinically validated immunology asset and associated intellectual property, while Forte shareholders receive cash consideration for their shares. The transaction also enables argenx to integrate FB102 into its existing antibody-based immunology portfolio. Potential Impact If clinical development is successful, FB102 could broaden argenx's autoimmune pipeline and support development in additional immune-mediated diseases beyond its current indications. Any future commercial impact will depend on subsequent clinical, regulatory and development milestones. Key Takeaway The acquisition gives argenx full ownership of an early-stage, first-in-class immunology asset that complements its existing autoimmune disease portfolio. What to Watch Completion of the tender offer, satisfaction of regulatory closing conditions, and further clinical development of FB102 in vitiligo, coeliac disease and other autoimmune indications. Primary Source https://argenx.com/news/2026/press-release-3333257.html Relevant Date 27 July 2026 Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

The once-daily treatment introduces the first approved norepinephrine-dopamine-serotonin reuptake inhibitor for ADHD, with US availability dependent on DEA scheduling. The FDA has approved Otsuka’s Simtriyo (centanafadine) extended-release capsules for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adults and paediatric patients aged 6 years and older who weigh at least 20 kg. The approval expands ADHD treatment options across childhood, adolescence and adulthood, although the central nervous system stimulant carries boxed warnings and will not become commercially available until controlled-substance scheduling is completed. Field Content Alert Type Drug Approval Drug Name Simtriyo (centanafadine) Indication Treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adults and paediatric patients aged 6 years and older weighing at least 20 kg Therapy Area(s) Psychiatry; paediatrics; neurodevelopmental disorders Geography US (FDA) What Happened Otsuka announced on 24 July 2026 that the FDA had approved Simtriyo, a once-daily extended-release capsule, for ADHD in adults and paediatric patients aged 6 years and older weighing at least 20 kg. The approval was supported by four randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 3 studies conducted in children, adolescents and adults. Why It Matters Simtriyo is the first approved treatment described as inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin, providing an additional pharmacological option for patients across multiple age groups. The higher doses evaluated in the pivotal paediatric and adolescent studies produced statistically significant improvements in ADHD symptom scores compared with placebo. Supporting Context Simtriyo is classified as a central nervous system stimulant. Its prescribing information includes boxed warnings concerning suicidal ideation and behaviours in paediatric patients and the potential for abuse, misuse and addiction; it is not recommended for children younger than 6 years or those weighing under 20 kg. Key Takeaway The approval adds a once-daily treatment with a distinct triple-reuptake mechanism to the US ADHD market for eligible children, adolescents and adults. What to Watch DEA controlled-substance scheduling, commercial availability later in 2026 and the presentation of findings from Otsuka’s Phase 3b study in adults with ADHD and comorbid anxiety. Primary Source Otsuka’s official FDA approval announcement Relevant Date 24 July 2026 — FDA approval announcement date Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

If authorised, Icotyde would become the first oral treatment targeting the interleukin-23 receptor available to eligible adults and adolescents in the EU. The European Medicines Agency’s human medicines committee has recommended granting EU marketing authorisation to Janssen-Cilag’s Icotyde (icotrokinra) for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older weighing at least 40 kg. The positive opinion introduces the prospect of an oral interleukin-23 receptor-targeted treatment, but a European Commission decision and national pricing and reimbursement assessments are still required before patient access. Field Content Alert Type Industry Update Topic Regulatory recommendation and psoriasis treatment Organisation(s) European Medicines Agency; Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use; Janssen-Cilag International N.V. Affected Stakeholders Dermatologists, eligible adults and adolescents with plaque psoriasis, Janssen-Cilag, payers and national reimbursement authorities Therapy Area(s) Dermatology; plaque psoriasis Geography European Union What Happened On 23 July 2026, EMA’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use adopted a positive opinion recommending EU marketing authorisation for Icotyde for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older weighing at least 40 kg. The recommendation is not a marketing authorisation: it will be referred to the European Commission for a final decision. Why It Matters Icotyde blocks the interleukin-23 receptor and would be the first authorised oral medicine targeting the interleukin-23 pathway in the EU. This could provide an additional treatment format for eligible patients alongside existing injectable medicines targeting the pathway. Supporting Context EMA assessed four Phase 3 trials involving approximately 2,500 patients. Across three studies, 50% to 57% of patients receiving Icotyde achieved PASI 90 after 16 weeks, compared with 1% to 4% receiving placebo; a fourth study included psoriasis affecting difficult-to-treat areas. Who Is Most Affected Dermatologists and eligible patients would be most directly affected by the potential addition of an oral interleukin-23 receptor-targeted treatment. Payers and national health authorities will subsequently determine pricing and reimbursement if the European Commission grants authorisation. Industry Impact If authorised, Icotyde could increase competition in the moderate-to-severe psoriasis market and broaden treatment choice for patients who may prefer an oral medicine. Its practical impact will depend on the final authorised indication, national reimbursement decisions and adoption in clinical practice. Key Takeaway The positive CHMP opinion moves the first oral interleukin-23 receptor-targeted psoriasis treatment closer to EU authorisation, but it is not yet approved. What to Watch The European Commission’s marketing-authorisation decision, followed by pricing and reimbursement decisions in individual EU Member States. Primary Source European Medicines Agency announcement Relevant Date 23 July 2026 — positive CHMP opinion Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

The approval provides adults and children aged 12 years and older with a single over-the-counter combination option that delivers both rapid and prolonged pain relief without requiring separate analgesic products. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Tylenol with Naproxen (acetaminophen/naproxen sodium) for the temporary relief of pain, making it the first non-prescription fixed-dose combination of acetaminophen and naproxen sodium available in the United States. The approval offers an additional over-the-counter pain management option for patients aged 12 years and older while providing a single-tablet formulation that combines two established non-opioid analgesics. Field Content Alert Type Drug Approval Drug Name Tylenol with Naproxen Indication Temporary relief of pain in adults and children aged 12 years and older. Therapy Area(s) Pain Management Geography US (FDA) What Happened On 24 July 2026, the FDA approved Tylenol with Naproxen (acetaminophen 325 mg/naproxen sodium 110 mg tablets) for over-the-counter temporary pain relief in adults and children aged 12 years and older. The approval establishes the product as the first non-prescription fixed-dose combination of acetaminophen and naproxen sodium, providing up to 12 hours of pain relief in a single tablet formulation. Why It Matters The approval introduces a new over-the-counter treatment option that combines two well-established non-opioid analgesics in a fixed-dose product, potentially simplifying pain management for patients who would otherwise use separate acetaminophen and naproxen products. It expands the range of non-prescription analgesic options but does not alter existing safety precautions associated with acetaminophen- or NSAID-containing medicines. Supporting Context While other over-the-counter products combine acetaminophen with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, this is the first to combine acetaminophen specifically with naproxen sodium. FDA-approved labelling includes standard warnings for both acetaminophen- and NSAID-containing products, including liver toxicity and pregnancy-related precautions. Key Takeaway FDA approval adds the first fixed-dose acetaminophen and naproxen sodium combination to the US over-the-counter pain relief market, expanding non-prescription treatment choices for eligible patients. What to Watch Monitor commercial availability following the FDA approval and how the product is incorporated into over-the-counter pain management recommendations and consumer use. Primary Source https://www.fda.gov/drugs/news-events-human-drugs/fda-approves-first-nonprescription-fixed-dose-combination-acetaminophen-and-naproxen-sodium-12-hour Relevant Date 24 July 2026 Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

If authorised, the combination would add an antibody-drug conjugate-based first-line option for eligible European patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. The European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use has recommended extending Trodelvy’s marketing authorisation to include its use with Keytruda in adults with previously untreated, PD-L1-positive, unresectable locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. The positive opinion could expand first-line treatment choice for this population, but a European Commission decision is still required before the indication is authorised in the EU. Field Content Alert Type Industry Update Topic Regulatory recommendation and first-line breast cancer treatment Organisation(s) European Medicines Agency; Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use; Gilead Sciences Affected Stakeholders Medical oncologists, eligible patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, Gilead Sciences, Merck, payers and national reimbursement authorities Therapy Area(s) Oncology; breast cancer Geography European Union What Happened On 24 July 2026, the CHMP adopted a positive opinion recommending Trodelvy (sacituzumab govitecan) in combination with Keytruda (pembrolizumab) for adults with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer whose tumours express PD-L1 with a combined positive score of at least 10 and who have not received systemic treatment for metastatic disease. The opinion is a regulatory recommendation rather than a marketing authorisation and will now be considered by the European Commission. Why It Matters If authorised, the regimen would provide an antibody-drug conjugate plus immunotherapy option in the first-line PD-L1-positive setting. The recommendation also extends Trodelvy’s potential role across first-line metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, following EU authorisation of Trodelvy monotherapy for patients who are not candidates for PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitor treatment. Supporting Context The recommendation is based on the Phase 3 ASCENT-04/KEYNOTE-D19 study, in which Trodelvy plus Keytruda reduced the risk of disease progression or death by 35% compared with standard chemotherapy plus Keytruda in patients with PD-L1-positive metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. Who Is Most Affected Oncologists and eligible patients would be most directly affected by the possible addition of a new first-line regimen. Payers and health technology assessment bodies would subsequently assess pricing, reimbursement and positioning within European treatment pathways. Industry Impact Authorisation could increase competition in the first-line metastatic triple-negative breast cancer market and support wider use of antibody-drug conjugates earlier in treatment. The practical impact would depend on the final European Commission decision, national reimbursement and clinical adoption. Key Takeaway The CHMP opinion moves Trodelvy plus Keytruda closer to becoming a first-line European treatment option for PD-L1-positive metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, but the combination is not yet authorised for this indication. What to Watch The European Commission’s final decision, the authorised label and subsequent pricing and reimbursement decisions across individual EU Member States. Primary Source European Medicines Agency opinion on the Trodelvy variation Relevant Date 24 July 2026 — CHMP positive opinion Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services — Moore’s Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector. Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

If authorised by the European Commission, Icotyde would provide eligible adults and adolescents with an oral alternative to existing injectable treatments targeting the IL-23 pathway. The European Medicines Agency’s human medicines committee has recommended EU marketing authorisation for Janssen-Cilag’s Icotyde (icotrokinra) to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older weighing at least 40 kg who are candidates for systemic therapy. The positive opinion moves the first oral medicine targeting the interleukin-23 receptor closer to European availability, although final authorisation and national pricing and reimbursement decisions are still required. Field Content Alert Type Industry Update Topic Regulatory recommendation and oral plaque psoriasis treatment Organisation(s) European Medicines Agency; Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use; Janssen-Cilag International N.V. Affected Stakeholders Dermatologists, eligible adults and adolescents with plaque psoriasis, Janssen-Cilag, payers and national reimbursement authorities Therapy Area(s) Dermatology; plaque psoriasis Geography European Union What Happened On 23 July 2026, the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use adopted a positive opinion recommending marketing authorisation for Icotyde. The proposed indication covers moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older weighing at least 40 kg who are candidates for systemic therapy. The recommendation is not yet an EU marketing authorisation and will be referred to the European Commission for a final decision. Why It Matters Icotyde is an oral synthetic peptide that selectively targets the interleukin-23 receptor. If authorised, it would become the first oral medicine targeting the IL-23 pathway in the EU, potentially broadening treatment choice for patients who currently receive injectable medicines acting on the same pathway. Supporting Context The CHMP assessment included four Phase 3 studies involving nearly 2,500 adults and adolescents. EMA reported that the treatment reduced disease severity and skin involvement; fungal infections were the most commonly reported adverse effect. Who Is Most Affected Dermatologists and eligible patients would be most directly affected by the potential availability of an oral IL-23 receptor-targeted treatment. National payers and health technology assessment bodies would determine pricing, reimbursement and positioning within local treatment pathways following any European Commission authorisation. Industry Impact Authorisation could increase competition within the moderate-to-severe psoriasis market and expand the use of IL-23-targeted treatment beyond injectable products. Its practical effect would depend on the final label, comparative clinical positioning, national reimbursement and adoption in practice. Key Takeaway The CHMP opinion moves the first oral IL-23 receptor-targeted psoriasis medicine closer to EU authorisation, but Icotyde is not yet approved. What to Watch The European Commission’s final marketing-authorisation decision, publication of the approved product information and subsequent pricing and reimbursement decisions across EU Member States. Primary Source European Medicines Agency: Icotyde Relevant Date 23 July 2026 — positive CHMP opinion Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

This article provides a structured interpretation of the NHS Employers summary of the Doctors’ and Dentists’ Pay Review Body (DDRB) 2026 pay award announcement. It is based on the published employer evidence and associated workforce data, focusing on what the reported figures show about current trends in NHS primary care staffing. The DDRB 2026 announcement confirms a 3.5% pay uplift for doctors, dentists and salaried GPs, and a 3.75% uplift for salaried dentists in community services from April 2026. Alongside the pay decision, the employer evidence provides context on workforce composition, recruitment, retention, and operational pressures across general practice and dentistry. Dentistry: Workforce and Service Pressures in Community and Public Provision Community Dental Services (CDS) and Public Dental Services (PDS) provide care for patients with complex needs who may not be able to access general dental services. The employer evidence highlights several consistent trends across these services. Demand pressures linked to access in general dentistry The evidence indicates that pressures in general dental access are contributing to increased demand within CDS and PDS settings. This includes: Higher volumes of complex patient presentations Increased reliance on CDS and PDS provision Concentration of patients with higher treatment needs within these services Workforce trends in community and public dentistry The data shows reductions in workforce levels over time in parts of the UK: CDS dentist headcount in England has reduced over the past decade PDS workforce in Scotland has declined from 438 in 2015 to 336 in 2025 These figures indicate a downward trend in staffing levels within these services over the period reported. Recruitment and vacancy filling The employer evidence reports ongoing recruitment challenges in salaried dental roles, particularly in entry-level positions and in certain geographic areas. Examples include: Difficulty filling Band A salaried dental posts Extended recruitment processes for some vacancies Reduced applicant availability in rural and coastal regions One example cited involved 81 recruitment campaigns undertaken to fill 17 posts. Workforce pressures and workplace experience The evidence also references reports of increasing incidents of verbal and physical aggression towards dental staff, often associated with patient frustration linked to waiting times and access constraints. General Practice: Workforce Composition and Employment Structure The employer evidence describes changes in the composition of the GP workforce over recent years, alongside overall growth in qualified GP numbers. Changes in GP workforce structure In England, the reported trends include: Qualified permanent GP full-time equivalent growth of 2.1% in the most recent year GP partners decreasing by 2.9% in the same period (12.7% over five years) Salaried GPs increasing by 8.8% in the same period (35.0% over five years) These figures show a shift in the balance between partner and salaried roles within general practice. Differences in working patterns The evidence indicates differences in average participation rates between GP partners and salaried GPs: GP partners: approximately 0.85 full-time equivalent participation Salaried GPs: approximately 0.62 full-time equivalent participation This indicates variation in average clinical time worked per individual across contract types. Recruitment and early-career employment The employer evidence highlights ongoing recruitment and retention challenges within general practice. It also references situations where newly qualified GPs may experience difficulties securing employment opportunities, alongside reports of practices using alternative workforce funding routes such as ARRS to support staffing. Pay and Financial Context The DDRB 2026 evidence includes information on GP earnings and practice financial pressures. GP partner earnings Reported median pre-tax incomes for GP partners vary by nation: England: £141,700 Northern Ireland: £108,100 These figures show variation in contractor GP earnings across the UK. Salaried GP pay Salaried GP pay is reported as broadly aligned with or below comparator roles when adjusted for full-time equivalent, with variation depending on contract terms and local arrangements. The employer's evidence also notes that pay award implementation may vary depending on practice-level financial constraints. Practice cost pressures The evidence reports increases in operating costs across primary care: 17% increase in expenses in England (2023–24) 15% increase in Wales over the same period increased borrowing and financing costs, including a reported 68% rise in interest and mortgage-related expenses for some practices These cost increases are presented alongside broader inflationary and staffing pressures affecting practice finances. Summary of Reported Trends Across the DDRB 2026 employer evidence, several consistent patterns are reported: Dentistry Increased demand within CDS and PDS linked to access pressures in general dentistry Declining workforce levels in some regions over time Ongoing recruitment difficulties in salaried and entry-level roles Reports of increased workplace pressure and patient-related incidents General Practice Growth in total qualified GP numbers alongside a shift from partner to salaried roles Differences in average participation rates between contract types Ongoing recruitment and retention challenges Variation in pay and financial conditions across nations and practices Rising operational costs within general practice Conclusion The DDRB 2026 employer evidence and associated pay award data show changes in both workforce composition and operational pressures across dentistry and general practice. The reported figures highlight shifts in employment structure, variation in workforce distribution, and ongoing recruitment and financial constraints within primary care services. Source NHS Employers - Doctors’ and dentists’ pay award announcement 2026 Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

Jazz Pharmaceuticals has expanded its oncology pipeline through a new collaboration with AbCellera, signing a deal worth more than $2.4 billion focused on developing next-generation multispecific antibodies for gastrointestinal (GI) cancers and other solid tumours. The agreement strengthens Jazz’s position in oncology while providing access to AbCellera’s advanced antibody discovery platform, which is designed to generate novel T-cell engaging therapies capable of tackling some of the most difficult-to-treat cancer types. Targeting the Next Wave of T-Cell Engagers The partnership centres on the discovery of multispecific antibodies that can direct a patient’s own T cells to recognise and destroy cancer cells. AbCellera will deploy its proprietary technology stack, which combines CD3-binding antibody libraries, costimulatory targeting approaches, multispecific protein engineering and high-throughput functional screening tools. Together, these capabilities are designed to overcome some of the limitations that have historically restricted T-cell engager therapies in solid tumours, where treatment success has lagged behind achievements seen in blood cancers. Under the agreement, AbCellera will lead discovery and early-stage development for two initial T-cell engager programmes and has committed to initiating a third programme within the next 12 months. Jazz will retain exclusive options to advance each candidate into clinical development and global commercialisation. The companies also have the flexibility to expand the collaboration with up to two additional programmes in the future. A Heavily Back-Loaded Deal Structure Financially, the deal follows a familiar biotech partnership model, with relatively modest upfront payments balanced by substantial downstream incentives. AbCellera will receive $56 million upfront covering the first two programmes, alongside a further $28 million payment when the third programme is launched. The larger value lies in future milestones. Should Jazz choose to exercise its development options, AbCellera could receive up to $792 million per programme through a combination of option fees, development milestones, regulatory achievements and commercial sales targets. In addition, the Canadian biotech will be eligible for tiered royalties ranging from the mid-single digits to low-double digits on future product sales. The structure allows Jazz to access multiple early-stage assets while limiting upfront risk, while giving AbCellera significant upside if the programmes progress successfully. Building on Jazz’s GI Oncology Strategy The collaboration aligns closely with Jazz’s growing focus on gastrointestinal cancers. The company’s current GI oncology franchise is led by zanidatamab, a HER2-targeted bispecific antibody marketed as Ziihera. The therapy received accelerated FDA approval in 2024 for previously treated biliary tract cancer and has become a cornerstone of Jazz’s oncology growth strategy. Momentum around zanidatamab continues to build. The drug recently outperformed Roche’s Herceptin in a Phase III study involving first-line gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma and is currently under FDA priority review for a potential label expansion, with a regulatory decision expected later this year. By adding multiple T-cell engager programmes focused on GI cancers and solid tumours, Jazz is broadening its oncology portfolio beyond a single lead asset while increasing exposure to one of the industry's most active areas of cancer research. Why the Deal Matters The Jazz–AbCellera agreement reflects several wider trends shaping oncology drug development: Multispecific antibodies continue to attract significant investment as companies search for more effective immune-based therapies. T-cell engager technologies are increasingly being adapted for solid tumours, an area with substantial unmet clinical need. Pharmaceutical companies are favouring platform-based partnerships that generate multiple assets rather than pursuing individual licensing deals. Discovery-stage biotech companies are increasingly monetising proprietary AI, screening and engineering platforms through large milestone-driven collaborations. For Jazz, the deal represents another step in its evolution into a larger oncology player. For AbCellera, it provides validation of its antibody discovery capabilities while creating a potentially lucrative long-term development partnership. Summary Jazz Pharmaceuticals has signed a collaboration worth more than $2.4 billion with AbCellera to develop multispecific antibody therapies targeting GI cancers and other solid tumours. The partnership gives Jazz access to a pipeline of next-generation T-cell engager candidates while leveraging AbCellera’s antibody discovery and engineering platform. With multiple programmes planned and significant milestone potential, the deal highlights the growing industry focus on multispecific antibodies and immune-engaging approaches in solid tumour oncology. Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

What $500,000+ average cardiology pay actually means for your position in the specialty. The Medscape Cardiologist Compensation Report 2026 shows cardiology sitting firmly at the top end of physician earnings, with average total compensation just over $500,000. This includes base salary, bonus, and additional income such as productivity-linked and profit-sharing components. What matters is not just the figure itself, but how your own compensation compares to it. Cardiologist compensation sits just above $500,000 on average The Medscape 2026 data confirms cardiologists are firmly in the top tier of physician earnings, with average total compensation just over $500,000. What this means in real terms: This is now the baseline reference point for the specialty Anything significantly below this figure places you under the reported cardiology average Anything meaningfully above it places you in the upper-earning segment of the specialty So the key question becomes: Are you above or below the $500,000 cardiology anchor point? Because that is now the effective centre of gravity for the specialty. A meaningful share of cardiologists sit below the average Despite the high average figure, the report shows that not all cardiologists are clustered around it. A substantial portion sits below the $500,000 level, while others sit above it and pull the average upward. If you are earning noticeably below $500,000: You are not outside cardiology norms But you are below the reported central earnings anchor for the specialty If you are around $500,000: You are aligned with the typical cardiology outcome in 2026 If you are above it: You are in the higher output segment of cardiology economics, where procedural volume and system structure start to dominate earnings Only 52% of cardiologists feel fairly compensated Just 52% of cardiologists say they feel fairly compensated despite the $500,000+ average. That creates an important disconnect. Being above a very high absolute income level does not guarantee perceived fairness. What this means for you: Two cardiologists on similar earnings can feel very differently about their compensation depending on workload, administrative burden, and system structure. So even at this level, income and satisfaction are not tightly aligned. 42% expect further pay increases, 44% expect flat pay, 14% expect decline The report shows the following expectations: 42% expect pay increases 44% expect flat compensation 14% expect a decrease What this means in real terms: The majority of cardiologists are no longer expecting strong upward movement beyond the current level. So even in a specialty anchored above $500,000, future earnings progression is becoming uneven and increasingly uncertain. What this means for you by experience level If you are an early career (0–3 years post-consultant) At this stage, the $500,000+ figure is not where most cardiologists start. What matters is positioning relative to it. If you are: Significantly below $500,000, you are in the early development phase of cardiology earnings Approaching $500,000, you are already reaching full specialty earning potential earlier than typical Above $500,000, you are already in a high-output cardiology role very early in your consultant career Key point: The distance to the $500,000 anchor is the most important signal at this stage. If you are mid-career (4–9 years) This is where cardiology earnings stabilise around the $500,000 anchor. What the report implies: This is the phase where most cardiologists converge around the average divergence begins depending on procedural intensity and system structure If you are: Below $500,000, you are under the cardiology centre of gravity Around $500,000, you are tracking the typical specialty outcome Above $500,000, you are in the higher output segment of the distribution Key insight: This is where earnings stop being about experience and start being about structure. If you are established (10–19 years) At this stage, $500,000 becomes a dividing line rather than a benchmark. What the report shows: Many cardiologists remain clustered near the average Others pull above it based on productivity and procedural volume If you are: Below $500,000, you are under the current cardiology earnings anchor Around $500,000, you are aligned with the main distribution of the speciality Above $500,000, you are in the group capturing a disproportionate share of cardiology earnings Key point: The gap between below and above average becomes financially meaningful at this stage. If you are a senior (20+ years) At the senior level, the $500,000 figure becomes a split point. Two outcomes emerge: Stabilised earnings around the $500,000 anchor Or continued progression above it driven by procedural scale and practice structure The difference is no longer experience-based. It is system-based. The core message of the 2026 report The Medscape 2026 cardiology data can be reduced to three hard anchors: Cardiology average sits just above $500,000 52% feel fairly compensated 44% expect flat pay, 42% expect increases Taken together, they show a clear structure: Cardiology is a high-paying speciality where $500,000 is the central reference point, but not everyone sits at it, and not everyone moves beyond it. Summary If you are a cardiologist reading this report, the key question is not whether the specialty pays well. It clearly does, anchored just above $500,000. The real question is: Am I below, around, or above the $500,000 cardiology benchmark And is my position moving with the specialty or stagnating beneath it Because the report makes one thing very clear: $500,000 is the centre of cardiology earnings, but your position relative to it defines your real income outcome. Source Medscape Cardiologist Compensation Report 2026 Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com

A new biotech focused exclusively on migraine treatment has emerged with significant financial backing and a leadership team responsible for some of the most important advances in migraine medicine over the last decade. Vedana Therapeutics has launched with $46 million in Series A funding and a clear ambition: to become what its leadership describes as "the migraine company." The company is targeting patients who continue to experience debilitating migraines despite the arrival of CGRP inhibitors, one of the most important therapeutic breakthroughs in neurology in recent years. Building Beyond the CGRP Revolution The approval of the first CGRP inhibitor in 2018 transformed migraine treatment, creating the first therapies specifically designed to prevent migraines rather than repurposing medicines developed for other conditions. However, despite the success of drugs such as Aimovig and Ajovy, a substantial proportion of patients continue to experience significant disease burden. Vedana believes the next major opportunity lies in targeting a separate biological pathway involving pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP). Research has shown that PACAP can trigger migraine-like symptoms even when CGRP pathways are fully blocked, suggesting it may represent an important complementary mechanism involved in migraine development. By targeting PACAP, Vedana hopes to provide meaningful relief for patients who do not achieve sufficient benefit from current therapies. Two Lead Programmes Targeting Unmet Need The company's pipeline is centred around two investigational programmes: A next-generation anti-PACAP monoclonal antibody A dual-targeting PACAP/CGRP bispecific antibody The dual-targeting approach is particularly notable because it seeks to address multiple migraine pathways simultaneously, potentially improving outcomes for patients with difficult-to-treat disease. Vedana plans to use its newly secured funding to advance both programmes into clinical development next year. Entering an Increasingly Competitive Space Vedana is not alone in pursuing PACAP-based therapies. Several companies are now targeting the pathway, with Lundbeck currently leading the field through its investigational PACAP antibody bocunebart, which recently delivered positive Phase IIb migraine data. Other emerging players are also building PACAP-focused pipelines, reflecting growing industry confidence that the pathway could represent the next major wave of migraine innovation. Despite the increasing competition, Vedana believes its differentiation will come from developing therapies that are: More potent Longer acting Suitable for at-home administration Delivered through convenient autoinjector devices The company hopes these characteristics will improve both patient outcomes and treatment accessibility. A Leadership Team with Proven Migraine Expertise One of Vedana's most significant advantages may be its leadership team. The company has assembled executives and scientists who played central roles in developing some of today's leading migraine therapies. Key members include: Co-founder and Chief Scientist Leon Garcia, who previously helped develop both anti-CGRP and anti-PACAP antibodies at Alder BioPharmaceuticals Chief Medical Officer Ernesto Aycardi, who led pivotal and post-marketing studies for Ajovy Executive Chairman Rob Lenz, who previously oversaw the development of Aimovig during his time at Amgen This concentration of migraine-specific expertise gives Vedana experience across the entire drug development lifecycle, from discovery through to commercial launch. Why the Launch Matters Vedana's emergence highlights several important trends within neurology and biotech innovation: Migraine remains a major area of unmet medical need despite recent therapeutic advances. Companies are increasingly exploring alternative biological pathways beyond CGRP. PACAP is emerging as one of the most closely watched targets in migraine research. Investors continue to back specialist biotech companies built around focused disease expertise. Next-generation migraine therapies are increasingly aiming to improve both efficacy and patient convenience. The company's launch also demonstrates continued confidence that meaningful improvements can still be made beyond today's market-leading migraine treatments. Summary Vedana Therapeutics has launched with $46 million in funding and a leadership team drawn from some of the most successful migraine drug development programmes in recent history. Focused on the PACAP pathway, the company is developing both a next-generation anti-PACAP antibody and a dual-targeting PACAP/CGRP therapy designed to address patients who continue to experience migraines despite existing treatments. As competition around PACAP intensifies, Vedana is positioning itself to become a specialist leader in the next phase of migraine innovation. Discover how nuaxia can support your next medical education initiative: Find out more about our specialist services - Moore's Outcome Assessments, Educational Needs Assessments and Patient Impact Studies for the Medical Education sector Contact us on: support@nuaxia.com