Pharma Pulse 6/16/25: What Actually Moves the Needle on Inclusive Research; The Evolving Role of the Pharmacist in HEOR: Bridging Clinical and Economic Evidence

The Mandate Myth: What Actually Moves the Needle on Inclusive Research

An article in Applied Clinical Trials, titled “The Mandate Myth: What Actually Moves the Needle on Inclusive Research,” argues that while federal mandates for diversity in clinical trials are relatively recent, meaningful progress has largely stemmed from voluntary initiatives by sponsors, journals, advocacy groups, and health systems. However, emerging policy setbacks threaten to undermine these gains unless inclusive practices are institutionalized and held to consistent accountability standards.

The Evolving Role of the Pharmacist in HEOR: Bridging Clinical and Economic Evidence

Pharmacists are increasingly playing a pivotal role in health economics and outcomes research, using their clinical expertise and real-world insights to bridge the gap between treatment effectiveness and cost-effectiveness—ultimately helping patients, payers, and providers make informed, value-based decisions in an increasingly complex healthcare landscape.

Bavarian Nordic Launches Chikungunya Vaccine Trial for Pediatric Population

Bavarian Nordic has launched a Phase III trial of its chikungunya vaccine, CHIKV VLP, in children aged 2–11 years, aiming to evaluate safety and immunogenicity over two years as the company seeks to expand access beyond the currently approved population aged 12 years and older in the United States, European Union, and United Kingdom.

Bristol Myers CEO Stays Bullish on Cobenfy Despite Trial Flop, Signs of Slowing Momentum

Despite a failed Phase III trial in adjunctive schizophrenia and signs of slowing prescription growth, Bristol Myers Squibb remains confident in the commercial and clinical potential of its antipsychotic drug Cobenfy, pointing to positive physician feedback, ongoing studies across multiple central nervous system indications—including Alzheimer-related psychosis—and plans to expand prescriber outreach and real-world evidence generation to drive long-term growth.

Astellas Offers Lab Space to Startups to Help Japanese Biotechs 'Go Global'

Astellas Pharma is offering lab space, expert support, and networking opportunities at its Tsukuba research center to help Japanese biotech startups expand globally through a government-backed acceleration initiative.