Abbott Reports Third-Quarter 2026 Results and Reaffirms Full-Year EPS Guidance

All four segments posted third-quarter comparable sales growth, while Nutrition sales remained lower over the first nine months.

Rhea-AI Summary

Abbott (ABT) reported third-quarter sales of $13,013 million and reaffirmed the midpoint of its full-year adjusted earnings guidance. Sales rose 14.5 percent year over year, or 7.0 percent on a comparable basis. GAAP diluted earnings per share were $0.53; adjusted diluted EPS, excluding specified items, was $1.42. Abbott tightened its full-year adjusted EPS range to $5.50 to $5.55 and projects approximately 6.0 percent comparable sales growth.

Third-quarter comparable sales increased across all four segments, led by Established Pharmaceuticals at 8.4 percent and Medical Devices at 7.8 percent. First-nine-month Nutrition sales declined 1.3 percent on a reported basis. Portfolio additions included FDA approvals for Libre Duo and TactiFlex Duo, CE Mark for Amulet 360, and the launch of FDA-approved SimpleScreen CRC, a blood-based colorectal cancer screening test.

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Positive

• Moderate pointThird-quarter sales rose 14.5 percent reported and 7.0 percent comparable year over year to $13,013 million.
• Moderate point. Forward-looking: it has not happened yet and may not happen.Abbott reaffirmed its full-year adjusted EPS guidance midpoint, tightening the range to $5.50 to $5.55.
• Moderate point. Forward-looking: it has not happened yet and may not happen.Abbott projects full-year 2026 comparable sales growth of approximately 6.0 percent.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Diagnostics sales increased 46.7 percent reported and 6.4 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Medical Devices sales increased 6.9 percent reported and 7.8 percent comparable year over year.

29 minor points

• Minor pointThird-quarter Established Pharmaceuticals sales increased 6.8 percent reported and 8.4 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Nutrition sales increased 5.1 percent reported and 4.9 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointNutrition sales increased $118 million sequentially from the second quarter of 2026.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Cancer Diagnostics comparable sales grew 13.8 percent year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Core Laboratory sales grew 5.4 percent on both reported and comparable bases year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Rapid/Molecular Diagnostics sales grew 1.1 percent reported and 0.9 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Pediatric Nutrition sales grew 8.8 percent reported and 8.7 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Adult Nutrition sales grew 2.0 percent reported and 1.8 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter pharmaceutical sales in Key Emerging Markets grew 9.0 percent reported and 10.9 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter pharmaceutical sales in other markets grew 1.1 percent reported and 1.6 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Electrophysiology sales grew 15.0 percent reported and 15.5 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Rhythm Management sales grew 9.7 percent reported and 10.0 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Heart Failure sales grew 5.8 percent reported and 6.0 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Vascular sales grew 5.4 percent reported and 5.7 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Structural Heart sales grew 1.9 percent reported and 6.9 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Diabetes Care sales grew 6.2 percent reported and 6.7 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter continuous glucose monitor sales grew 7.3 percent reported and 7.7 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month sales rose 11.9 percent reported and 5.2 percent comparable year over year to $36,770 million.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month Diagnostics sales grew 32.4 percent reported and 3.8 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month Established Pharmaceuticals sales grew 9.3 percent reported and 8.7 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month Medical Devices sales grew 9.6 percent reported and 8.2 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month Core Laboratory sales grew 5.9 percent reported and 4.0 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month Cancer Diagnostics comparable sales grew 13.5 percent year over year.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month pharmaceutical sales in Key Emerging Markets grew 10.5 percent reported and 10.4 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month pharmaceutical sales in other markets grew 5.6 percent reported and 3.6 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointLibre Duo, a dual glucose-ketone sensor, received FDA approval in August.
• Minor pointTactiFlex Duo, an ablation catheter for atrial fibrillation, received FDA approval in September.
• Minor pointAmulet 360, a device designed to reduce stroke risk in atrial fibrillation, received CE Mark in August.
• Minor pointSimpleScreen CRC launched in September as an FDA-approved blood-based colorectal cancer screening test.

Negative

• Moderate pointFirst-nine-month Nutrition sales declined 1.3 percent reported and 2.1 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month Pediatric Nutrition sales declined 1.0 percent reported and 1.6 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month Adult Nutrition sales declined 1.6 percent reported and 2.6 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointFirst-nine-month Rapid/Molecular Diagnostics sales declined 4.5 percent reported and 5.4 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter Neuromodulation sales declined 1.2 percent reported and 1.1 percent comparable year over year.

2 minor points

• Minor pointThird-quarter U.S. Structural Heart sales declined 11.1 percent reported and 2.3 percent comparable year over year.
• Minor pointThird-quarter international Heart Failure sales declined 2.7 percent reported and 1.6 percent comparable year over year.

News Explained

Abbott completed its acquisition of Exact Sciences on March 23, 2026, and presents Exact sales in Cancer Diagnostics. For the third quarter, Diagnostics’ reported growth was 46.7% versus comparable growth of 6.4%; the comparable measure includes Exact sales for both the prior and current year.

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Key Figures

Reported sales growth: 14.5% Comparable sales growth: 7.0% Total reported sales: $13,013 million +4 more

Reported sales growth

14.5%

3Q26, reported basis

Comparable sales growth

7.0%

3Q26

Total reported sales

$13,013 million

3Q26

GAAP diluted EPS

$0.53

3Q26

Adjusted diluted EPS

$1.42

3Q26; excludes specified items

Comparable sales growth projection

Approximately 6.0%

Full-year 2026

Adjusted diluted EPS guidance

$5.50 to $5.55

Full-year 2026; midpoint reaffirmed and range tightened

Key Terms

gaap, diluted eps, ce mark, pulsed field ablation

4 terms

gaap financial

"Third-quarter GAAP diluted EPS of $0.53"

GAAP, or Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, are a set of standardized rules and guidelines that companies follow when preparing their financial statements. They ensure consistency, transparency, and comparability across different companies, making it easier for investors to understand and compare financial information accurately. This helps investors make informed decisions based on trustworthy and uniform financial reports.

View in glossary

diluted eps financial

"adjusted diluted EPS of $1.42"

Diluted earnings per share (EPS) shows how much profit a company makes for each share of stock, assuming all possible shares from stock options or convertible securities are used. It provides a more conservative estimate than basic EPS, accounting for potential share increases that could dilute ownership. Investors use diluted EPS to get a clearer picture of a company's true profitability on a per-share basis.

ce mark regulatory

"received CE Mark for its Amulet 360"

A CE mark is a regulatory stamp placed on products to show they meet the European Union’s basic safety, health and environmental rules and can be sold in the European Economic Area. For investors it matters because the mark unlocks market access, affects how quickly a product can generate revenue, and signals regulatory risk and potential compliance costs—think of it as a passport that lets a product enter a large market.

pulsed field ablation medical

"both pulsed field ablation (PFA) and radiofrequency (RF) energy"

Pulsed field ablation is a heart procedure that uses very short, high-voltage electrical pulses to selectively disrupt abnormal heart tissue that causes irregular rhythms, rather than heating or freezing it. For investors, it matters because this approach can shorten procedure times, reduce damage to nearby structures, and potentially lower complication rates compared with traditional thermal methods, which can affect device adoption, hospital costs, and market demand for treatment tools.

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• Third-quarter reported sales growth of 14.5 percent; comparable sales growth of 7.0 percent
• Third-quarter GAAP diluted EPS of $0.53; adjusted diluted EPS of $1.42
• Expands portfolio with key new product approvals

ABBOTT PARK, Ill., Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Abbott (NYSE: ABT) today announced financial results for the third quarter ended Sept. 30, 2026.

• Third-quarter sales increased 14.5 percent on a reported basis and 7.0 percent on a comparable basis.
• Third-quarter GAAP diluted EPS of $0.53 and adjusted diluted EPS of $1.42, which excludes specified items.
• Abbott projects full-year 2026 comparable sales growth to be approximately 6.0 percent¹.
• Abbott reaffirms the midpoint of previously provided full-year 2026 adjusted diluted EPS guidance range and tightens the range to $5.50 to $5.55.
• In August, Abbott announced U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for Libre® Duo, the world's first dual glucose-ketone biowearable sensor. By providing real-time visibility into glucose and ketone levels, this new technology helps optimize the management of diabetes by detecting rising ketone levels, which can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious health condition for people with diabetes.
• In August, Abbott announced that the company received CE Mark for its Amulet 360™ Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) Occluder, a next-generation device designed to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib).
• In August, Abbott announced the launch of Similac® 360 Total Care® Made With Whole Milk —  the first and only commercially sterile, ready-to-feed liquid infant formula made with whole milk in the United States.
• In September, Abbott announced FDA approval for its TactiFlex™ Duo Ablation Catheter, Sensor Enabled™, designed to deliver both pulsed field ablation (PFA) and radiofrequency (RF) energy to treat patients battling atrial fibrillation.
• In September, Abbott launched SimpleScreen™ CRC, an FDA-approved, blood-based colorectal cancer screening test for adults age 45 and older who are at average risk for the disease.

"Abbott delivered strong third-quarter results, reflecting balanced growth across our portfolio," said Robert B. Ford, chairman and chief executive officer, Abbott. "With strong performance across multiple businesses and a robust pipeline of innovation, we are well-positioned to deliver sustainable growth in the years ahead."

THIRD-QUARTER BUSINESS OVERVIEW

Comparable sales growth:
Management believes that measuring sales growth on a comparable basis is an appropriate way for investors to best understand the underlying performance of the business. Comparable sales growth includes the prior and current year sales of Exact Sciences, a cancer diagnostics company that Abbott acquired on March 23, 2026. Comparable sales growth excludes the impact of foreign exchange and revenue in both the prior and current year related to compensation payments that Abbott's Structural Heart business received as part of a multi-year agreement with a competitor. The final payment under this agreement was recognized in the first quarter of 2026.

Note: In order to compute results excluding the impact of exchange rates, current year U.S. dollar sales are multiplied or divided, as appropriate, by the current year average foreign exchange rates and then those amounts are multiplied or divided, as appropriate, by the prior year average foreign exchange rates. 

Third Quarter 2026 Results (3Q26)
Sales 3Q26 ($ in millions)	Total Company		Nutrition		Diagnostics		Established Pharmaceuticals		Medical Devices
U.S.	5,504		958		1,853		—		2,687
International	7,509		1,304		1,452		1,614		3,139
Total reported	13,013		2,262		3,305		1,614		5,826
% Change vs. 3Q25
U.S.	28.0		7.9		109.2		n/a		6.6
International	6.2		3.1		6.2		6.8		7.2
Total reported	14.5		5.1		46.7		6.8		6.9
Total reported excl. foreign exchange impact	14.8		4.9		46.6		8.4		7.4
Comparable sales growth	7.0		4.9		6.4		8.4		7.8
U.S.	7.9		7.9		8.4		n/a		7.6
International	6.4		2.8		4.0		8.4		8.0

 

First Nine Months 2026 Results (9M26)
Sales 9M26 ($ in millions)	Total Company		Nutrition		Diagnostics		Established Pharmaceuticals		Medical Devices
U.S.	14,994		2,673		4,418		—		7,890
International	21,776		3,750		4,159		4,539		9,328
Total reported	36,770		6,423		8,577		4,539		17,218
% Change vs. 9M25
U.S.	17.7		(4.5)		72.0		n/a		7.1
International	8.2		1.1		6.3		9.3		11.7
Total reported	11.9		(1.3)		32.4		9.3		9.6
Total reported excl. foreign exchange impact	10.5		(2.1)		30.8		8.7		7.8
Comparable sales growth	5.2		(2.1)		3.8		8.7		8.2
U.S.	4.7		(4.5)		4.9		n/a		8.1
International	5.7		(0.3)		2.4		8.7		8.3

Refer to table titled "Non-GAAP Revenue Reconciliation" for a reconciliation of comparable sales growth.

 

Nutrition
Third Quarter 2026 Results (3Q26)
Sales 3Q26 ($ in millions)	Total		Pediatric		Adult
U.S.	958		577		381
International	1,304		486		818
Total reported	2,262		1,063		1,199
% Change vs. 3Q25
U.S.	7.9		11.0		3.5
International	3.1		6.4		1.3
Total reported	5.1		8.8		2.0
Total reported excl. foreign exchange impact	4.9		8.7		1.8
Comparable sales growth	4.9		8.7		1.8
U.S.	7.9		11.0		3.5
International	2.8		6.0		1.0

Worldwide Nutrition sales increased 5.1 percent on a reported basis and 4.9 percent on a comparable basis in the third quarter.

Worldwide Nutrition results were driven by broad-based growth across the portfolio, including sales growth of nearly 9.0 percent in Worldwide Pediatric.

On a sequential basis, Worldwide Nutrition sales increased $118 million compared to the second quarter of 2026.

First Nine Months 2026 Results (9M26)
Sales 9M26 ($ in millions)	Total		Pediatric		Adult
U.S.	2,673		1,613		1,060
International	3,750		1,428		2,322
Total reported	6,423		3,041		3,382
% Change vs. 9M25
U.S.	(4.5)		(4.8)		(4.0)
International	1.1		3.7		(0.5)
Total reported	(1.3)		(1.0)		(1.6)
Total reported excl. foreign exchange impact	(2.1)		(1.6)		(2.6)
Comparable sales growth	(2.1)		(1.6)		(2.6)
U.S.	(4.5)		(4.8)		(4.0)
International	(0.3)		2.4		(2.0)

 

Diagnostics*
Third Quarter 2026 Results (3Q26)
Sales 3Q26 ($ in millions)	Total		Core Laboratory		Cancer Diagnostics		Rapid/Molecular Diagnostics
U.S.	1,853		389		938		526
International	1,452		1,049		30		373
Total reported	3,305		1,438		968		899
% Change vs. 3Q25
U.S.	109.2		6.3		n/a		1.1
International	6.2		5.1		n/a		1.0
Total reported	46.7		5.4		n/a		1.1
Total reported excl. foreign exchange impact	46.6		5.4		n/a		0.9
Comparable sales growth	6.4		5.4		13.8		0.9
U.S.	8.4		6.3		13.9		1.1
International	4.0		5.1		12.1		0.7

Worldwide Diagnostics sales increased 46.7 percent on a reported basis and 6.4 percent on a comparable basis in the third quarter.

Worldwide Core Laboratory Diagnostics results were driven by balanced growth across major geographic regions including the U.S., Europe, Japan, and Latin America.

Cancer Diagnostics results were driven by growth of Cologuard® and also reflect contributions to growth from the precision oncology and international businesses.

First Nine Months 2026 Results (9M26)
Sales 9M26 ($ in millions)	Total		Core Laboratory		Cancer Diagnostics		Rapid/Molecular Diagnostics
U.S.	4,418		1,113		1,921		1,384
International	4,159		3,015		62		1,082
Total reported	8,577		4,128		1,983		2,466
% Change vs. 9M25
U.S.	72.0		6.1		n/a		(8.9)
International	6.3		5.8		n/a		1.9
Total reported	32.4		5.9		n/a		(4.5)
Total reported excl. foreign exchange impact	30.8		4.0		n/a		(5.4)
Comparable sales growth	3.8		4.0		13.5		(5.4)
U.S.	4.9		6.1		13.5		(8.9)
International	2.4		3.2		15.0		(0.4)

*Beginning in 2026, Abbott aggregated its previously reported Rapid Diagnostics, Molecular Diagnostics, and Point of Care businesses into the Rapid and Molecular Diagnostics business. On March 23, 2026, Abbott completed the acquisition of Exact Sciences. Following the acquisition, the sales of Exact Sciences are presented as Abbott's Cancer Diagnostics business.

Refer to table titled "Non-GAAP Revenue Reconciliation" for a reconciliation of comparable sales growth.

 

Established Pharmaceuticals
Third Quarter 2026 Results (3Q26)
Sales 3Q26 ($ in millions)	Total		Key Emerging Markets		Other
U.S.	—		—		—
International	1,614		1,195		419
Total reported	1,614		1,195		419
% Change vs. 3Q25
U.S.	n/a		n/a		n/a
International	6.8		9.0		1.1
Total reported	6.8		9.0		1.1
Total reported excl. foreign exchange impact	8.4		10.9		1.6
Comparable sales growth	8.4		10.9		1.6
U.S.	n/a		n/a		n/a
International	8.4		10.9		1.6

Established Pharmaceuticals sales increased 6.8 percent on a reported basis and 8.4 percent on a comparable basis in the third quarter.

Key Emerging Markets include several emerging countries that represent the most attractive long-term growth opportunities for Abbott's branded generics product portfolio. Sales in these geographies increased 9.0 percent on a reported basis and 10.9 percent on a comparable basis, led by double-digit growth in India and several markets across the Latin America and Asia Pacific regions.

First Nine Months 2026 Results (9M26)
Sales 9M26 ($ in millions)	Total		Key Emerging Markets		Other
U.S.	—		—		—
International	4,539		3,448		1,091
Total reported	4,539		3,448		1,091
% Change vs. 9M25
U.S.	n/a		n/a		n/a
International	9.3		10.5		5.6
Total reported	9.3		10.5		5.6
Total reported excl. foreign exchange impact	8.7		10.4		3.6
Comparable sales growth	8.7		10.4		3.6
U.S.	n/a		n/a		n/a
International	8.7		10.4		3.6

 

Medical Devices
Third Quarter 2026 Results (3Q26)
Sales 3Q26 ($ in millions)	Total		Rhythm Management		Electro- physiology*		Heart Failure		Vascular		Structural Heart*		Neuro- modulation		Diabetes Care
U.S.	2,687		380		429		303		290		228		185		872
International	3,139		372		444		84		496		364		66		1,313
Total reported	5,826		752		873		387		786		592		251		2,185
% Change vs. 3Q25
U.S.	6.6		9.0		18.1		8.4		3.4		(11.1)		(5.6)		9.4
International	7.2		10.4		12.2		(2.7)		6.7		12.2		13.6		4.2
Total reported	6.9		9.7		15.0		5.8		5.4		1.9		(1.2)		6.2
Total reported excl. foreign exchange impact	7.4		10.0		15.5		6.0		5.7		2.6		(1.1)		6.7
Comparable sales growth	7.8		10.0		15.5		6.0		5.7		6.9		(1.1)		6.7
U.S.	7.6		9.0		18.1		8.4		3.4		(2.3)		(5.6)		9.4
International	8.0		11.0		13.1		(1.6)		7.1		13.5		13.9		4.9

Worldwide Medical Devices sales increased 6.9 percent on a reported basis and 7.8 percent on a comparable basis in the third quarter.

Sales growth in the quarter was led by double-digit growth in Electrophysiology and Rhythm Management.

In Diabetes Care, sales of continuous glucose monitors grew 7.3 percent on a reported basis and 7.7 percent on a comparable basis.

First Nine Months 2026 Results (9M26)
Sales 9M26 ($ in millions)	Total		Rhythm Management		Electro- physiology*		Heart Failure		Vascular		Structural Heart*		Neuro- modulation		Diabetes Care
U.S.	7,890		1,096		1,227		908		875		677		551		2,556
International	9,328		1,083		1,295		269		1,491		1,090		203		3,897
Total reported	17,218		2,179		2,522		1,177		2,366		1,767		754		6,453
% Change vs. 9M25
U.S.	7.1		10.4		16.0		10.2		5.2		(10.2)		(2.4)		9.3
International	11.7		13.9		14.5		7.9		8.0		16.1		18.1		10.5
Total reported	9.6		12.1		15.2		9.7		7.0		4.4		2.4		10.0
Total reported excl. foreign exchange impact	7.8		10.6		13.8		8.9		5.2		2.6		1.3		7.7
Comparable sales growth	8.2		10.6		13.8		8.9		5.2		6.5		1.3		7.7
U.S.	8.1		10.4		16.0		10.2		5.2		(2.3)		(2.4)		9.3
International	8.3		10.8		11.9		4.6		5.2		12.8		13.5		6.6

*Abbott's Amplatzer Amulet Left Atrial Appendage Occluder device and related accessories were transferred from Structural Heart to Electrophysiology on January 1, 2026. As a result, $55 million of sales in the third quarter of 2025 and $156 million of sales in the first nine months of 2025 were moved from Structural Heart to Electrophysiology.

Refer to table titled "Non-GAAP Revenue Reconciliation" for a reconciliation of comparable sales growth.

Abbott's Financial Guidance
Abbott projects full-year 2026 comparable sales growth to be approximately 6.0%¹.

Abbott projects full-year 2026 adjusted diluted earnings per share of $5.50 to $5.55.

Abbott projects fourth-quarter 2026 adjusted diluted earnings per share of $1.62 to $1.67.

Abbott has not provided the related GAAP financial measures on a forward-looking basis for these forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures because the company is unable to predict with reasonable certainty and without unreasonable effort the timing and impact of certain items such as restructuring and cost reduction initiatives, charges for intangible asset impairments, acquisition-related expenses, and foreign exchange, which could significantly impact Abbott's results in accordance with GAAP.

Abbott Declares 411^th Consecutive Quarterly Dividend
On Sept. 17, 2026, the board of directors of Abbott declared the company's quarterly dividend of $0.63 per share. Abbott's cash dividend is payable Nov. 16, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on Oct. 15, 2026.

Abbott has increased its dividend payout for 54 consecutive years and is a member of the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats Index, which tracks companies that have annually increased their dividend for at least 25 consecutive years.

About Abbott:
Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 122,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.

Connect with us at www.abbott.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Abbott will live-webcast its third-quarter earnings conference call through its Investor Relations website at www.abbottinvestor.com at 8 a.m. Central time today. An archived edition of the webcast will be available later in the day.

— Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 —
A Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Some statements in this news release may be forward-looking statements for purposes of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Abbott cautions that these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors that may affect Abbott's operations are discussed in Item 1A, "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2025, and are incorporated herein by reference. Abbott undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements as a result of subsequent events or developments, except as required by law.

1. In 2025, total worldwide sales were $44.328 billion, which included U.S. sales of $17.126 billion and international sales of $27.202 billion, and Abbott's Structural Heart business received $89 million of compensation payments as part of a multi-year agreement with a competitor. Also in 2025, total worldwide sales for Exact Sciences were $3.247 billion, which included U.S. sales of $3.145 billion and international sales of $102 million.

Abbott Laboratories and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statement of Earnings Third Quarter Ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)
	3Q26		3Q25		% Change
Net Sales	$13,013		$11,369		14.5
Cost of products sold, excluding amortization expense	5,628		5,075		10.9
Amortization of intangible assets	841		420		n/m
Research and development	920		766		20.1
Selling, general, and administrative	4,266		3,051		39.8
Total Operating Cost and Expenses	11,655		9,312		25.2
Operating Earnings	1,358		2,057		(34.0)
Interest expense, net	297		44		n/m
Net foreign exchange (gain) loss	(6)		(17)		n/m
Other (income) expense, net	(164)		(150)		9.4
Earnings before taxes	1,231		2,180		(43.5)
Taxes on Earnings	311		536		(42.0)	1)
Net Earnings	$920		$1,644		(44.1)
Net Earnings excluding Specified Items, as described below	$2,477		$2,278		8.7	2)
Diluted Earnings per Common Share	$0.53		$0.94		(43.6)
Diluted Earnings per Common Share, excluding Specified Items, as described below	$1.42		$1.30		9.2	2)
Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding Plus Dilutive Common Stock Options	1,738		1,749

NOTES:
See table titled "Non-GAAP Reconciliation of Financial Information" for an explanation of certain non-GAAP financial information.
n/m = Percent change is not meaningful.
See footnotes on the following section.
1)	2026 Taxes on Earnings includes the recognition of approximately $35 million of net tax expense primarily as a result of the resolution of various tax positions related to prior years. 2026 Taxes on Earnings also includes approximately $100 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.
	2025 Taxes on Earnings includes approximately $160 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.
2)	2026 Net Earnings and Diluted Earnings per Common Share, excluding Specified Items, excludes net after-tax charges of $1.557 billion, or $0.89 per share, for intangible amortization, legal settlements, acquisitions, restructuring actions, and other net expenses.
	2025 Net Earnings and Diluted Earnings per Common Share, excluding Specified Items, excludes net after-tax charges of $634 million, or $0.36 per share, for intangible amortization, charges related to restructuring and cost reduction initiatives, and other net expenses.

 

Abbott Laboratories and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statement of Earnings Nine Months Ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)
	9M26		9M25		% Change
Net Sales	$36,770		$32,869		11.9
Cost of products sold, excluding amortization expense	15,843		14,397		10.0
Amortization of intangible assets	1,921		1,260		52.4
Research and development	2,579		2,207		16.9
Selling, general, and administrative	12,031		9,203		30.7
Total Operating Cost and Expenses	32,374		27,067		19.6
Operating Earnings	4,396		5,802		(24.2)
Interest expense, net	664		143		n/m
Net foreign exchange (gain) loss	(15)		(35)		n/m
Other (income) expense, net	(457)		(414)		10.2
Earnings before taxes	4,204		6,108		(31.2)
Taxes on earnings	1,279		1,360		(6.0)	1)
Net Earnings	$2,925		$4,748		(38.4)
Net Earnings excluding Specified Items, as described below	$6,789		$6,410		5.9	2)
Diluted Earnings per Common Share	$1.67		$2.70		(38.1)
Diluted Earnings per Common Share, excluding Specified Items, as described below	$3.88		$3.65		6.3	2)
Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding Plus Dilutive Common Stock Options	1,743		1,749

NOTES:
See table titled "Non-GAAP Reconciliation of Financial Information" for an explanation of certain non-GAAP financial information.
n/m = Percent change is not meaningful.
See footnotes on the following section.
1)	2026 Taxes on Earnings includes the recognition of approximately $95 million of net tax expense primarily as a result of the resolution of various tax positions related to prior years. 2026 Taxes on Earnings also includes approximately $540 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.
	2025 Taxes on Earnings includes the recognition of approximately $90 million of net tax benefit as a result of the resolution of various tax positions related to prior years. 2025 Taxes on Earnings also includes approximately $460 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.
2)	2026 Net Earnings and Diluted Earnings per Common Share, excluding Specified Items, excludes net after-tax charges of $3.864 billion, or $2.21 per share, for intangible amortization, legal settlements, acquisitions, restructuring actions, and other net expenses.
	2025 Net Earnings and Diluted Earnings per Common Share, excluding Specified Items, excludes net after-tax charges of $1.662 billion, or $0.95 per share, for intangible amortization, charges related to investment impairments, charges related to restructuring and cost reduction initiatives, expenses associated with acquisitions, and other net expenses.

 

Abbott Laboratories and Subsidiaries Non-GAAP Reconciliation of Financial Information Third Quarter Ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)
	3Q26
	As Reported (GAAP)		Specified Items		As Adjusted
Intangible Amortization	$      841		$      (841)		$        —
Gross Margin	6,544		904		7,448
R&D	920		(28)		892
SG&A	4,266		(761)		3,505
Other (income) expense, net	(164)		4		(160)
Earnings before taxes	1,231		1,689		2,920
Taxes on Earnings	311		132		443
Net Earnings	920		1,557		2,477
Diluted Earnings per Share	$     0.53		$     0.89		$      1.42

Specified items reflect intangible amortization expense of $841 million, legal settlements of approximately $670 million and other net expenses of $178 million associated with acquisitions, restructuring actions, and other net expenses. See table titled "Details of Specified Items" for additional details regarding specified items.

	3Q25
	As Reported (GAAP)		Specified Items		As Adjusted
Intangible Amortization	$      420		$     (420)		$        —
Gross Margin	5,874		470		6,344
R&D	766		(36)		730
SG&A	3,051		(47)		3,004
Other (income) expense, net	(150)		5		(145)
Earnings before taxes	2,180		548		2,728
Taxes on Earnings	536		(86)		450
Net Earnings	1,644		634		2,278
Diluted Earnings per Share	$     0.94		$      0.36		$      1.30

Specified items reflect intangible amortization expense of $420 million and other net expenses of $128 million associated with restructuring actions, costs associated with acquisitions, and other net expenses. See table titled "Details of Specified Items" for additional details regarding specified items.

Abbott Laboratories and Subsidiaries Non-GAAP Reconciliation of Financial Information Nine Months Ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)
	9M26
	As Reported (GAAP)		Specified Items		As Adjusted
Intangible Amortization	$     1,921		$    (1,921)		$        —
Gross Margin	19,006		2,033		21,039
R&D	2,579		(77)		2,502
SG&A	12,031		(1,662)		10,369
Other (income) expense, net	(457)		(30)		(487)
Earnings before taxes	4,204		3,802		8,006
Taxes on Earnings	1,279		(62)		1,217
Net Earnings	2,925		3,864		6,789
Diluted Earnings per Share	$      1.67		$      2.21		$     3.88

Specified items reflect intangible amortization expense of $1.921 billion, legal settlements of approximately $1.070 billion and other net expenses of $811 million associated with acquisitions, restructuring actions, and other net expenses. See table titled "Details of Specified Items" for additional details regarding specified items.

	9M25
	As Reported (GAAP)		Specified Items		As Adjusted
Intangible Amortization	$    1,260		$   (1,260)		$        —
Gross Margin	17,212		1,396		18,608
R&D	2,207		(83)		2,124
SG&A	9,203		(58)		9,145
Other (income) expense, net	(414)		(31)		(445)
Earnings before taxes	6,108		1,568		7,676
Taxes on Earnings	1,360		(94)		1,266
Net Earnings	4,748		1,662		6,410
Diluted Earnings per Share	$     2.70		$      0.95		$     3.65

Specified items reflect intangible amortization expense of $1.260 billion and other net expenses of $308 million associated with restructuring actions, acquisitions, investment impairment charges, and other net expenses. See table titled "Details of Specified Items" for additional details regarding specified items.

A reconciliation of the third-quarter tax rates for 2026 and 2025 is shown below: 

	3Q26
($ in millions)	Pre-Tax Income		Taxes on Earnings		Tax Rate
As reported (GAAP)	$     1,231		$       311		25.3 %	1)
Specified items	1,689		132
Excluding specified items	$    2,920		$      443		15.2 %
	3Q25
($ in millions)	Pre-Tax Income		Taxes on Earnings		Tax Rate
As reported (GAAP)	$    2,180		$      536		24.6 %	2)
Specified items	548		(86)
Excluding specified items	$    2,728		$      450		16.5 %

1)	2026 Taxes on Earnings includes the recognition of approximately $35 million of net tax expense primarily as a result of the resolution of various tax positions related to prior years. 2026 Taxes on Earnings also includes approximately $100 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.
2)	2025 Taxes on Earnings includes approximately $160 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.

A reconciliation of the year-to-date tax rates for 2026 and 2025 is shown below: 

	9M26
($ in millions)	Pre-Tax Income		Taxes on Earnings		Tax Rate
As reported (GAAP)	$   4,204		$    1,279		30.4 %	3)
Specified items	3,802		(62)
Excluding specified items	$   8,006		$     1,217		15.2 %
	9M25
($ in millions)	Pre-Tax Income		Taxes on Earnings		Tax Rate
As reported (GAAP)	$    6,108		$    1,360		22.3 %	4)
Specified items	1,568		(94)
Excluding specified items	$    7,676		$    1,266		16.5 %

3)	2026 Taxes on Earnings includes the recognition of approximately $95 million of net tax expense primarily as a result of the resolution of various tax positions related to prior years. 2026 Taxes on Earnings also includes approximately $540 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.
4)	2025 Taxes on Earnings includes the recognition of approximately $90 million of net tax benefit as a result of the resolution of various tax positions related to prior years. 2025 Taxes on Earnings also includes approximately $460 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.

 

Abbott Laboratories and Subsidiaries Non-GAAP Revenue Reconciliation Third Quarter Ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 ($ in millions) (unaudited)
	3Q26				3Q25					% Change vs. 3Q25
											Non-GAAP
	Abbott Reported	Foreign exchange	Comparable Revenue		Abbott Reported	Impact of acquisition (a)	Impact of multi-year agreement (b)	Comparable Revenue		Reported	Comparable
Total Company	13,013	40	13,053		11,369	851	(23)	12,197		14.5	7.0
U.S.	5,504	—	5,504		4,299	824	(23)	5,100		28.0	7.9
Intl	7,509	40	7,549		7,070	27	—	7,097		6.2	6.4
Total Diagnostics	3,305	(2)	3,303		2,253	851	—	3,104		46.7	6.4
U.S.	1,853	—	1,853		886	824	—	1,710		109.2	8.4
Intl	1,452	(2)	1,450		1,367	27	—	1,394		6.2	4.0
Total Cancer Diagnostics	968	—	968		—	851	—	851		n/a	13.8
U.S.	938	—	938		—	824	—	824		n/a	13.9
Intl	30	—	30		—	27	—	27		n/a	12.1
Total Medical Devices	5,826	22	5,848		5,448	—	(23)	5,425		6.9	7.8
U.S.	2,687	—	2,687		2,521	—	(23)	2,498		6.6	7.6
Intl	3,139	22	3,161		2,927	—	—	2,927		7.2	8.0
Total Structural Heart*	592	4	596		580	—	(23)	557		1.9	6.9
U.S.	228	—	228		256	—	(23)	233		(11.1)	(2.3)
Intl	364	4	368		324	—	—	324		12.2	13.5

*	Abbott's Amplatzer Amulet Left Atrial Appendage Occluder device and related accessories were transferred from Structural Heart to Electrophysiology on January 1, 2026. As a result, $55 million of sales in the third quarter of 2025 were moved from Structural Heart to Electrophysiology.
a)	The adjustment includes historical sales for Exact Sciences prior to the acquisition date. Exact Sciences was acquired by Abbott on March 23, 2026.
b)	Reflects the impact of compensation payments that Abbott's Structural Heart business received as part of a multi-year agreement with a competitor. The final payment under this agreement was recognized in the first quarter of 2026.

 

Abbott Laboratories and Subsidiaries Non-GAAP Revenue Reconciliation Nine Months Ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 ($ in millions) (unaudited)
	9M26						9M25					% Change vs. 9M25
													Non-GAAP
	Abbott Reported	Impact of acquisition (a)	Impact of multi-year agreement (b)	Foreign exchange	Comparable Revenue		Abbott Reported	Impact of acquisition (a)	Impact of multi-year agreement (b)	Comparable Revenue		Reported	Comparable
Total Company	36,770	706	(8)	(460)	37,008		32,869	2,369	(69)	35,169		11.9	5.2
U.S.	14,994	681	(8)	—	15,667		12,743	2,294	(69)	14,968		17.7	4.7
Intl	21,776	25	—	(460)	21,341		20,126	75	—	20,201		8.2	5.7
Total Diagnostics	8,577	706	—	(100)	9,183		6,480	2,369	—	8,849		32.4	3.8
U.S.	4,418	681	—	—	5,099		2,568	2,294	—	4,862		72.0	4.9
Intl	4,159	25	—	(100)	4,084		3,912	75	—	3,987		6.3	2.4
Total Cancer Diagnostics	1,983	706	—	(1)	2,688		—	2,369	—	2,369		n/a	13.5
U.S.	1,921	681	—	—	2,602		—	2,294	—	2,294		n/a	13.5
Intl	62	25	—	(1)	86		—	75	—	75		n/a	15.0
Total Medical Devices	17,218	—	(8)	(284)	16,926		15,712	—	(69)	15,643		9.6	8.2
U.S.	7,890	—	(8)	—	7,882		7,363	—	(69)	7,294		7.1	8.1
Intl	9,328	—	—	(284)	9,044		8,349	—	—	8,349		11.7	8.3
Total Structural Heart*	1,767	—	(8)	(31)	1,728		1,692	—	(69)	1,623		4.4	6.5
U.S.	677	—	(8)	—	669		753	—	(69)	684		(10.2)	(2.3)
Intl	1,090	—	—	(31)	1,059		939	—	—	939		16.1	12.8

*	Abbott's Amplatzer Amulet Left Atrial Appendage Occluder device and related accessories were transferred from Structural Heart to Electrophysiology on January 1, 2026. As a result, $156 million of sales in the first nine months of 2025 were moved from Structural Heart to Electrophysiology.
a)	The adjustment includes historical sales for Exact Sciences prior to the acquisition date. Exact Sciences was acquired by Abbott on March 23, 2026.
b)	Reflects the impact of compensation payments that Abbott's Structural Heart business received as part of a multi-year agreement with a competitor. The final payment under this agreement was recognized in the first quarter of 2026.

 

Abbott Laboratories and Subsidiaries Details of Specified Items Third Quarter Ended September 30, 2026 (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)
	Acquisition or Divestiture- related (a)		Restructuring and Cost Reduction Initiatives (b)		Intangible Amortization		Other (c)		Total Specifieds
Gross Margin	$          10		$             29		$         841		$           24		$        904
R&D	(7)		(5)		—		(16)		(28)
SG&A	(47)		(20)		—		(694)		(761)
Other (income) expense, net	(8)		(1)		—		13		4
Earnings before taxes	$           72		$             55		$         841		$          721		1,689
Taxes on Earnings (d)									132
Net Earnings									$      1,557
Diluted Earnings per Share									$        0.89

The table above provides additional details regarding the specified items described on table titled "Non-GAAP Reconciliation of Financial Information."
a)	Acquisition-related expenses include integration costs that represent incremental costs directly related to integrating acquired businesses, as well as other costs related to business acquisitions.
b)	Restructuring and cost reduction initiative expenses include severance, outplacement, and other direct costs associated with specific restructuring plans.
c)	Other primarily includes approximately $670 million related to agreements entered into to resolve the Gill case and the necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) claims asserted on behalf of approximately 2,000 additional infants, as well as incremental costs to comply with the European Union's Medical Device Regulations (MDR) and In Vitro Diagnostics Medical Device Regulations (IVDR) requirements for previously approved products.
d)	Reflects the net tax benefit associated with the specified items and recognition of a tax expense as a result of the resolution of various tax positions related to prior years. Taxes on Earnings includes approximately $100 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.

 

Abbott Laboratories and Subsidiaries Details of Specified Items Third Quarter Ended September 30, 2025 (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)
	Acquisition or Divestiture- related (a)		Restructuring and Cost Reduction Initiatives (b)		Intangible Amortization		Other (c)		Total Specifieds
Gross Margin	$           —		$             44		$         420		$            6		$         470
R&D	—		(19)		—		(17)		(36)
SG&A	(9)		(43)		—		5		(47)
Other (income) expense, net	7		—		—		(2)		5
Earnings before taxes	$            2		$            106		$         420		$           20		548
Taxes on Earnings (d)									(86)
Net Earnings									$         634
Diluted Earnings per Share									$        0.36

The table above provides additional details regarding the specified items described on table titled "Non-GAAP Reconciliation of Financial Information."
a)	Acquisition-related expenses include integration costs, which represent incremental costs directly related to integrating acquired businesses.
b)	Restructuring and cost reduction initiative expenses include severance, outplacement, and other direct costs associated with specific restructuring plans and cost reduction initiatives.
c)	Other includes incremental costs to comply with the European Union's Medical Device Regulations (MDR) and In Vitro Diagnostics Medical Device Regulations (IVDR) requirements for previously approved products.
d)	Reflects the net tax benefit associated with the specified items. Taxes on Earnings includes approximately $160 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.

 

Abbott Laboratories and Subsidiaries Details of Specified Items Nine Months Ended September 30, 2026 (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)
	Acquisition or Divestiture- related (a)		Restructuring and Cost Reduction Initiatives (b)		Intangible Amortization		Other (c)		Total Specifieds
Gross Margin	$          44		$             40		$        1,921		$           28		$       2,033
R&D	(18)		(15)		—		(44)		(77)
SG&A	(533)		(54)		—		(1,075)		(1,662)
Other (income) expense, net	(9)		(4)		—		(17)		(30)
Earnings before taxes	$         604		$             113		$        1,921		$        1,164		3,802
Taxes on Earnings (d)									(62)
Net Earnings									$       3,864
Diluted Earnings per Share									$         2.21

The table above provides additional details regarding the specified items described on table titled "Non-GAAP Reconciliation of Financial Information."
a)	Acquisition-related expenses include stock-based compensation recognized as expense from equity awards accelerated in connection with the Exact Sciences acquisition, integration costs that represent incremental costs directly related to integrating acquired businesses, as well as other costs related to business acquisitions, including inventory step-up amortization.
b)	Restructuring and cost reduction initiative expenses include severance, outplacement and other direct costs associated with specific restructuring plans.
c)	Other primarily includes approximately $670 million related to agreements entered into to resolve the Gill case and the NEC claims asserted on behalf of approximately 2,000 additional infants; approximately $400 million, including attorneys' fees and accrued interest, related to an agreement to resolve the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) investigations and the civil qui tam lawsuit brought by certain relators and joined by the DOJ and Attorneys General of several states; as well as incremental costs to comply with the European Union's Medical Device Regulations (MDR) and In Vitro Diagnostics Medical Device Regulations (IVDR) requirements for previously approved products.
d)	Reflects the net tax benefit associated with the specified items and recognition of a tax expense as a result of the resolution of various tax positions related to prior years. Taxes on Earnings includes approximately $540 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.

 

Abbott Laboratories and Subsidiaries Details of Specified Items Nine Months Ended September 30, 2025 (in millions, except per share data) (unaudited)
	Acquisition or Divestiture- related (a)		Restructuring and Cost Reduction Initiatives (b)		Intangible Amortization		Other (c)		Total Specifieds
Gross Margin	$            1		$            125		$       1,260		$           10		$       1,396
R&D	(1)		(42)		—		(40)		(83)
SG&A	(15)		(49)		—		6		(58)
Other (income) expense, net	(18)		—		—		(13)		(31)
Earnings before taxes	$           35		$            216		$       1,260		$           57		1,568
Taxes on Earnings (d)									(94)
Net Earnings									$       1,662
Diluted Earnings per Share									$        0.95

The table above provides additional details regarding the specified items described on table titled "Non-GAAP Reconciliation of Financial Information."
a)	Acquisition-related expenses include integration costs, which represent incremental costs directly related to integrating acquired businesses, as well as other costs related to business acquisitions.
b)	Restructuring and cost reduction initiative expenses include severance, outplacement, and other direct costs associated with specific restructuring plans and cost reduction initiatives.
c)	Other includes incremental costs to comply with the MDR and IVDR regulations for previously approved products and charges for investment impairments.
d)	Reflects the net tax benefit associated with the specified items and recognition of a tax benefit as a result of the resolution of various tax positions related to prior years. Taxes on Earnings includes approximately $460 million in adjustments related to prior recognition of a significant non-cash deferred tax benefit.

 

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SOURCE Abbott

FAQ

AI-generated questions and answers. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.

What were Abbott's third-quarter 2026 sales and earnings per share?

Abbott reported sales of $13,013 million, GAAP diluted EPS of $0.53, and adjusted diluted EPS of $1.42. Sales increased 14.5 percent on a reported basis and 7.0 percent on a comparable basis versus the third quarter of 2025. Adjusted EPS excludes specified items.

What is Abbott's full-year 2026 earnings guidance?

Abbott expects full-year adjusted diluted EPS of $5.50 to $5.55, tightening its previous range while reaffirming its midpoint. The company also projects full-year comparable sales growth of approximately 6.0 percent.

How does Abbott calculate comparable sales growth after acquiring Exact Sciences?

Abbott's comparable sales growth includes Exact Sciences sales in both the prior and current year and excludes foreign-exchange effects and Structural Heart compensation payments from a competitor. Abbott completed the Exact Sciences acquisition on March 23, 2026. The final compensation payment under the multi-year agreement was recognized in the first quarter of 2026.

Who is Abbott's SimpleScreen CRC screening test approved for?

SimpleScreen CRC is an FDA-approved, blood-based colorectal cancer screening test for adults age 45 and older who are at average risk for the disease. Abbott launched the test in September.