Joel Sendek, an analyst at Lazard, is optimistic about AtheroGenics' chances but points out that the new trial is a big jump from the company's previous studies.
Another potential beneficiary is Kos Pharmaceuticals, which makes a preparation of niacin to raise good cholesterol, or HDL. Patients on Crestor in this trial had a surprisingly big jump in HDL. The big question is how much doctors will embrace this single study.
The authors noted that there has never been a controlled clinical trial of parachutes, and facetiously suggested that one be conducted in which subjects were randomized to jump from a plane either with or without a device.