Ex-Novartis executive and co-founder of investment bank MM Dillon & Co shares insights around where healthcare unicorns can be found and some core criteria to build such firms.

Koselugo (selumetinib) was largely forgotten after failing Phase III trials in thyroid and lung cancer, as well as uveal melanoma, but its approval in Europe for inoperable plexiform neurofibromas in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1, which follows a US approval for the rare condition last year, has breathed new life into the once-lauded MEK 1/2 inhibitor.

Cardiologists in Europe who have so far been unwilling to embrace the SGLT2 class now have two drugs approved for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, with Jardiance soon to join Farxiga on the market, potentially attractive options especially for their diabetic patients.