AMLN Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (MM)

Recent studies have shown that the chances of FDA approval for early stage drugs is dropping significantly, with medication designed to treat cancer being one of the least likely to receive regulatory authorization. Although it remains an exciting time in the biotech sector, with several potential blockbusters working their way through the regulatory process, now more than ever, investors are being urged to use caution. The Bedford Report examines the outlook for companies in the Biotechnology Industry and provides research reports on Xoma Ltd. (NASDAQ: XOMA) and Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMLN). Access to the full company reports can be found at:

www.bedfordreport.com/2011-05-XOMA

www.bedfordreport.com/2011-05-AMLN

A study released by BIO and BioMedTracker claims that the success rate in bringing new medicines to market in the past six years is only about half of what it had been previously. The study claims, however, that biotech drugs are twice as likely to gain approval, compared to more traditional chemical drugs. The study also finds that that drugs used to treat cancer are the most difficult to gain approval, with a small 4.7 percent success rate.

The study found that drugs moving from early stage Phase I clinical trials to FDA approval is roughly ten percent, down from around 20 percent in reports involving earlier years. The report adds that approval applications were filed for 55 percent of the drugs that made it to Phase III testing, and 80 percent of those gained eventual approval -- though only half were approved on initial review.

The Bedford Report releases regular market updates on the Healthcare Sector so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at www.bedfordreport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous analyst reports and industry newsletters.

XOMA engages in the discovery, development, and manufacture of therapeutic antibodies to treat inflammatory, autoimmune, infectious, and oncological diseases. Last week the company posted a net loss of $6.3 million, or $0.22 per share, for the first quarter of 2011, compared with a net loss of $21.8 million, or $1.36 per share, for the first quarter of 2010.

Last month diabetes drug maker, Amylin posted a loss of $37.3 million, or 26 cents per share, for the quarter ended March 31. Revenue fell to $152.7 million, from $174.1 million in last year's first quarter.

The Bedford Report provides Analyst Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. The Bedford Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. The Bedford Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at http://www.bedfordreport.com/disclaimer

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