Greatest phase-2, phase-3 drug R&D activity seen in oncology, report finds

BURLINGTON, Mass. — While drug companies are developing treatments for a wide variety of diseases, the greatest amount of mid- to late-stage research and development activity is in cancer treatments, according to a new report.

According to healthcare market research company Decision Resources, among the top 25 drug companies, oncology is the focus for 30% of phase-2 drugs and 22% of phase-3 drugs. Other areas seeing strong activity include drugs for obesity, diabetes, infections and central nervous system disorders.

"To maximize R&D investments, biopharmaceutical companies must continue to address phase-2 and phase-3 attrition and identify better prospects early on," Decision Resources Group SVP Kate Hohenberg said. "As more than half of the costs associated with new drugs are accrued from phase 2 on, this could lead to significant cost savings."