First Algeta, announced that an independent ethical committee recommended ending its Phase III trial of Apharadin for advanced prostate cancer because the results were so good – media survival of 14 months - that it was unethical to deny the treatment to placebo patients.

Dr Chris Parker, from the Royal Marsden Hospital, and Principal Investigator of ALSYMPCA, said: “Advanced prostate cancer has a poor prognosis, and treatment options are limited. Based on the observed survival benefit and its safety profile, Alpharadin may become an important treatment for patients with bone metastases from advanced prostate cancer”.

Algeta also swiftly followed this with positive news from a second Phase IIa study of Alpharadin in breast cancer patients with bone metastases which led to Algeta mania in the Norwegian press! The hope now is that discussions with regulatory authorities will accelerate the drug’s road to market.

Not to be outdone, Photocure, pioneer of photodynamic therapy, appears ready to start a new chapter of success with the first commercial sale of Allumera, billed as the first “photodynamic cosmetic”.  Allumera is a topical cream representing the first in a new class of photodynamic cosmetics which has been clinically proven to improve the overall appearance of skin, visibly reduce the outward signs of aging and reduce the appearance of pores.

According to CEO Kjetil Hestdal: ” in the US, Allumera will compete in the growing market of cosmetic dermatology procedures, currently valued at an estimated $4B. Allumera will be sold to aesthetic dermatology practices across the US at a price per unit of $120, which establishes it as an attractive addition to the cosmetic armamentarium available to dermatologists today.”

Read more about Algeta at www.oslocancercluster.no

Read more about Photocure at www.reuters.com