Feuerstein's Biotech-Stock Mailbag

Coming out of the big ASCO cancer meeting, the feedback I got from doctors was that Satraplatin should be approved, but there were mixed feelings about the drug's clinical benefit. Translation: There are worries about just how much of the drug will be prescribed and used, which could pinch revenue.

There are a couple of important dates to put on the calendar for satraplatin: There will be an FDA advisory panel July 24 to review the drug. The FDA's approval decision date is Aug. 15.

While Spectrum's value is tied somewhat to Satraplatin, the more important driver for the stock will be new clinical data coming in the third quarter from its drug ozarelix, which is being developed to treat enlarged prostate.

---

Uh-oh, another Dendreon (DNDN Quote) question, this one from Maxim J. "Have you heard anything about Dendreon increasing the size of their IMPACT study to 600 patients?"

Yes, I heard the same unconfirmed chatter, loudest around the time of the company's recent debt offering. I'm actually surprised it hasn't happened yet. Dendreon raised the cash it needs to survive in the short run, so why not add more patients to the IMPACT trial? As most of you know, this phase III study -- still enrolling patients -- will determine whether or not Provenge is approved.