Pharma Roundup: Schering-Plough's Pipeline, Pfizer's Pipeline, and More

Schering-Plough's Hassan touts pipeline -- During the drug maker's research update at its New Jersey facilities, CEO Fred Hassan told analysts that many drugs are in late-stage testing, three compounds are nearing FDA approval, and that SP has fewer impending patent expirations than its competitors. [Source: San Jose Mercury News and Pharmalot]

Pfizer's healthy pipeline, and other news from 2008 -- Pfizer has exceeded expectations in the development of its pipeline, having increased its phase III programs from 16 to 25 in the past six months, according to a free report from NASDAQ. The report, which reviews events of the past year, includes drug-by-drug strategic analyses; making an appearance are Otenabant, Celebrex, Chantix, and others. Corey Nahman calls the report a "must-read." [Source: NASDAQ via Corey Nahman]

King succeeds in Alpharma takeover -- The firm which once rejected King's overtures has now accepted the $37-per-share deal on the table. The combined company will be a market leader in the abuse-resistant painkillers category. [Source: WSJ Health Blog]

Johnson & Johnson buys Omrix -- The two companies had collaborated on products which control bleeding during surgery; the $438 million deal brings those products under the J&J umbrella. [Source: CNN Money]