Current Health Highlights: From Abortion Bans to Breakthrough Drugs

This summary covers notable health news, including the Utah Supreme Court's decision on an abortion ban, Eli Lilly's weight loss drug benefits, Sanofi's insulin plant investment, Biogen's profit forecast, and the FDA's approval of a rare cancer treatment. Also included are updates on Church & Dwight's forecasts and Novo Nordisk's Australian launch of Wegovy.

The Utah Supreme Court on Thursday refuted the enforcement of a near-total abortion ban, allowing a lower court to deliberate on Planned Parenthood's challenge regarding the law's constitutionality. In a 4-1 ruling, the court supported Judge Andrew Stone's decision to block the ban temporarily.

In other news, Eli Lilly announced that its weight-loss drug Zepbound significantly cuts the risk of hospitalization and death for obese adults with common heart failure. Despite a recent shortage, CEO David Ricks confirmed that all doses will be available soon.

Meanwhile, French drugmaker Sanofi plans to invest 1.3 billion euros in a new insulin production facility in Frankfurt by 2029. This construction aims to replace its current factory and expand its manufacturing capacity.

Biogen raised its annual profit forecast following successful cost reductions and higher-than-expected sales. Biogen CEO Christopher Viehbacher highlighted significant progress in the company's turnaround since 2022.

Church & Dwight, known for Trojan condoms, reported lower financial forecasts due to reduced consumer spending on premium products, leading to a 4.3% drop in premarket shares.

The FDA approved Adaptimmune's groundbreaking therapy Tecelra for treating synovial sarcoma, a rare and life-threatening cancer affecting young people most. This milestone marks Adaptimmune's first approved cancer treatment.

Medical device maker ResMed reported a 9% rise in fourth-quarter revenue, driven by steady demand for its sleep apnea devices, meeting market estimates at $1.22 billion.

Novo Nordisk launched its Wegovy weight-loss drug in Australia, marking its introduction in the 12th country. The company intends to capitalize on the growing market ahead of competitors like Eli Lilly.

Furthermore, the FDA confirmed the availability of all doses of Eli Lilly's weight-loss and diabetes drugs Zepbound and Mounjaro, although they remain listed as in shortage.

(With inputs from agencies.)