Competition via formulation

Biogen Inc. moved to maintain the popularity of its Avonex interferon beta-1a for multiple sclerosis - currently the best-selling beta interferon - by partnering with Inhale Therapeutic Systems to develop a pulmonary formulation. The move counters Ares-Serono Group 's recently announced partnership with PowderJect Pharmaceuticals plc (LSE:PJP) for needleless delivery of some of its compounds, possibly including Rebif beta interferon.

INHL (San Carlos, Calif.) and BGEN (Cambridge, Mass.) expect to enter clinical trials next year with an inhaled formulation, which BGEN spokesperson Lisa Easley noted would make administration of Avonex easier and less painful...