Pharma Pulse: Gilead Expands R&D Hub, WHO Adds GLP-1s to Essential Medicines List, and High-Dose Flu Vaccine Shows Heart Benefits

Welcome to Pharma Pulse, a Pharmaceutical Commerce podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re covering Gilead’s latest expansion in R&D, a milestone decision from the World Health Organization on GLP-1s, and new research on flu vaccines and heart health in older adults.

• Gilead Sciences has broken ground on a new technical development hub designed to accelerate biopharma innovation. The facility will focus on advancing drug candidates through the technical stages of development, with an emphasis on biologics and complex modalities. The project signals Gilead’s commitment to strengthening its pipeline infrastructure and driving long-term growth in a competitive research landscape.
• In a landmark move, the World Health Organization has added GLP-1 receptor agonists to its Essential Medicines List for diabetes. The decision underscores the critical role these therapies play in managing type 2 diabetes worldwide. While affordability and access remain challenges, the inclusion is expected to support broader adoption, encourage generic competition, and potentially shape global health policy around GLP-1 availability.
• Lastly, a new study has found that high-dose influenza vaccines are linked to a lower risk of myocarditis and pericarditis in older adults, compared with standard-dose formulations. Researchers say the findings reinforce the benefits of high-dose vaccines, which are already recommended for seniors due to their stronger immune response. This adds another layer of evidence supporting their use in reducing both flu-related illness and secondary cardiovascular risks.

From R&D expansion to global policy shifts and improved vaccine outcomes, these stories highlight how pharma innovation and public health priorities continue to align.

That’s it for this episode of Pharma Pulse. For more insights on trends transforming pharmaceutical access and care delivery, visit pharmaceuticalcommerce.com.

Thanks for listening—until next time, stay well and stay informed.

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