Editor's letter

Welcome to the latest issue of Pharmaceutical Technology Focus magazine

Two years have passed since the US Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs vs Jackson Women’s Health to overturn the constitutional protection for abortion rights. With President-elect Donald Trump set to return to the White House in January 2025, the uncertainty and fears around these rights have been heightened. 

This month’s cover story explores the ethical, legal, and practical implications the US abortion restrictions on those involved in clinical trials, given the restrictions in some states may potentially expose trial sponsors to litigation. 

Also in this issue, a feature looks at the actions Pfizer management took to thwart activist investor Starboard, which took a $1bn stake in Pfizer and challenged the company's leadership in pursuit of a turnaround.  Additionally, a comment article looks at how a recent investment by obesity and diabetes drug maker Eli Lilly in the UK may play out.

Ross Law, deputy editor