The strong efficacy and sound safety data coming out of the Phase III programs presented at ACC have all eyes on the commercial opportunity for the PCSK9 inhibitor class. Ongoing outcomes trials and market impact of new cholesterol guidelines sparked discussion, and leading sponsors Amgen and Sanofi/Regeneron talked about the potential populations and differences in the devices and dosing of evolocumab and alirocumab.

Temporary policy may open door to longer term change as Medicare allows reimbursement of at-home administration of non-hospital drugs covered by Part B under a recently-released regulation aiding at encouraging telehealth during the coronavirus outbreak.

Biopharma is working on a reputation renaissance as the public looks to industry for treatments and vaccines for the COVID-19 epidemic and drug pricing concerns take a back seat.