Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) is one of America’s top bio-pharmaceutical companies leading the way in research and development. Its most recent breakthroughs in drug technology include promising treatments for hepatitis C, lupus and cancer. An aging population will require advanced medical research to expedite the marketing of drug treatments.
Background history
Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) started in 1992 at its headquarters in Rockville, Maryland. Since then, it has been conducting extensive pharmaceutical research to gain federal approval for marketing drugs. Currently the most significant progress concerns BENLYSTATM and ZALBINTM (formerly Albuferon).
Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) reported revenues of $204 million for the first six months of 2009, an increase from $23.8 million during the same period in 2008. Revenue increases were the result of contracts with the US government, specifically including $2.7 million toward the BENLYSTA agreement and $17.7 regarding the ZALBIN agreement.
Lupus research
For almost 50 years, there has been very little progress on the lupus front. Compared to other forms of cancer, research has been painstakingly slow due to the complex nature of the disease. Patient reaction to previous treatments has produced scattered and inconclusive results. After the 52 week Phase 3 trial, BENLYSTA was found to be well tolerated among patients. Bringing the disease under control will lead to greater success in finding a cure. Currently there are approximately 1.5 million American affected by lupus; worldwide a total of 5 million individuals suffer from this autoimmune disease.
BENLYSTA
BENLYSTA is poised to be the breakthrough drug to treat systemic lupus conditions. By November 2009, Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) in partnership with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) will use data from their Phase 3 trial bringing BENLYSTA closer to market availability.
ZALBIN
Meanwhile, ZALBIN emerged as the brand name for the breakthrough drug used to treat hepatitis C. The leading cause of liver failure in Americans, at any given time up to four million US citizens are affected by this condition. Over 180 million people worldwide suffer from hepatitis C and face untimely deaths. Global marketing is expected to commence as early as fall 2009.
Win-win for investors and patients
Investors seeking strong returns would be wise to consider the benefits of Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) despite currently trading 89% below its trading price all-time high in 2000. As of July 23, 2009, shares were listed at $14.30 out of a daily range between $13.25 and $14.47. The outlook is good for these prices to increase with the increased government investment based on successful clinical trial results. Availability on the world market will translate into greater use among health care professionals to treat lupus and hepatitis C.
Solid investment returns, particularly during a recession, require careful planning and consideration. Increased demand for health care innovation means great dividends for those investing in the pharmaceutical industry. Bio-pharmaceutical companies will play a crucial role by developing and marketing new drugs to improve an aging population’s quality of life. Leading the way, Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) will benefit patients and stockholders alike; a solid step toward physical and financial recovery.
