Public Company Edition: Three companies postponed or withdrew their offerings, but drug developers continue to pursue IPOs. Also, Biocon, BMS and Epizyme raised money through new debt, Five Prime capitalized on positive data and Synthetic Biologic engaged a strategic advisor.

Formycon has announced a change of strategy for the FYB201 biosimilar ranibizumab candidate being developed with Bioeq. Both firms insist the change is “not expected to have any impact on the timing of the anticipated launch of FYB201 in the US and EU countries.”

Almost in tandem, Amgen and Bioeq, with partner Formycon, have advanced their biosimilar Stelara (ustekinumab) candidates into Phase III clinical trials. Both sponsors are aiming to wrap their studies up in 2022.

Catalent has announced the launch of a new technology, OptiGel DR, for the formulation and manufacture of delayed/enteric release softgels, offering advantages such as potentially enhancing bioavailability and reducing gastric reflux effects.