Welcome to our dedicated page for Abbott Labs news (Ticker: ABT), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Abbott Labs stock.
Abbott Laboratories reports developments across a global healthcare portfolio that includes diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Recurring updates cover cardiovascular technologies such as Ultreon coronary imaging, pulsed field ablation and cardiac pacing systems; diabetes and other medical devices; nutritional products; and diagnostic testing.
Abbott news also includes financial results, guidance, product clearances, clinical data presentations, commercial integrations and portfolio changes. Following the completed Exact Sciences acquisition, oncology diagnostics are a recurring theme, including Cologuard, Oncotype DX, Oncodetect, Riskguard and Cancerguard tests for cancer screening, recurrence risk and treatment support.
Abbott reported third-quarter 2020 sales of $8.9 billion, reflecting a 9.6% increase from the previous year. Diluted EPS was $0.69 GAAP and $0.98 adjusted, marking a 16.7% growth. Abbott expects full-year GAAP EPS of at least $2.35 and adjusted EPS of $3.55. Notable developments include FDA Emergency Use Authorization for the BinaxNOW COVID-19 test and the launch of FreeStyle Libre 2. The company maintains a strong dividend history, recently declaring its 387th consecutive quarterly dividend.
Researchers from Abbott, the University of Illinois, and the U.S. Air Force have discovered a strong connection between physical fitness, cognitive performance, and optimal nutrition. In a 12-week study involving 148 U.S. Air Force personnel, participants receiving a high-protein nutritional drink exhibited improvements including an 11% boost in working memory and a 6% enhancement in reaction time. Additionally, muscle mass increased by over two pounds, and resting heart rate dropped by 8%. Abbott aims to develop future nutritional products based on these findings.
Abbott (NYSE: ABT) has received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the FDA for its AdviseDx SARS-CoV-2 IgM lab-based serology test. This test, available on ARCHITECT and Alinity platforms, detects IgM antibodies to indicate recent or prior COVID-19 infections. Abbott has developed seven tests for COVID-19 since the pandemic began, including molecular and rapid antigen tests. The new test demonstrates high reliability with 99.56% specificity and 95.00% sensitivity, aiding healthcare providers in assessing patient recovery.
Abbott has released interim clinical data on its ID NOW COVID-19 rapid test, confirming previous FDA submissions for Emergency Use Authorization. The study involved 1,003 participants and demonstrated an overall performance of 93.3% positive agreement and 98.4% negative agreement to lab-based PCR tests. High-performance metrics were noted, particularly in symptomatic patients within seven days post-symptom onset. The study reaffirms the critical role of rapid testing in pandemic management, positioning ID NOW as a reliable tool for identifying COVID-19 infections.
Abbott (NYSE: ABT) has received CE Mark approval for its FreeStyle Libre 3 system, enabling its use for diabetes management in Europe. This next-generation glucose monitoring system offers real-time glucose readings every minute via a smartphone, boasting a 14-day accuracy in a compact design. The FreeStyle Libre 3 sensor, priced similarly to previous models, aims to enhance accessibility while reducing environmental impact with a significant decrease in plastic and carton use. This system is expected to continue Abbott's legacy of improving diabetes care and reducing healthcare costs.
Abbott (NYSE: ABT) has received CE Mark approval for its fourth-generation MitraClip™ Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair System, enhancing treatment options for mitral regurgitation (MR) in Europe. The MitraClip G4 improves upon previous models with advanced steering, a variety of clip sizes, and independently controlled grippers. This system, already approved in the U.S., offers a less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery for patients unable to undergo conventional procedures. Notably, over 100,000 patients have been treated globally, showcasing its clinical success and impact on patient outcomes.
Abbott (NYSE: ABT) will report its third-quarter 2020 financial results on Oct. 21, 2020, before market opening. This announcement will be followed by a live webcast of the earnings call at 8 a.m. Central time. The live event will be accessible via Abbott's Investor Relations website, with an archived version available later the same day. Abbott is a global leader in healthcare, serving over 160 countries with its diverse portfolio spanning diagnostics, medical devices, nutrition, and branded generic medicines.
Abbott's board has declared a quarterly dividend of 36 cents per share, marking the 387th consecutive quarterly dividend since 1924. The cash dividend is payable on Nov. 16, 2020, to shareholders of record by Oct. 15, 2020. Abbott has increased its dividend payout for 48 consecutive years and is listed in the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats Index, highlighting its consistency in dividend payments.
Abbott (NYSE: ABT) has launched the world’s first glucose sport biosensor, the Libre Sense, designed specifically for athletes to monitor glucose levels in real-time. This innovative product, derived from Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre technology, allows athletes aged 16 and older to optimize their nutrition during sports activities like cycling and running. The biosensor provides continuous streaming data via a mobile app and can be worn for up to 14 days. Initially available in eight European countries, this product aims to enhance athletic performance by helping users manage energy levels effectively.
Abbott (NYSE: ABT) announced the initiation of the LIFE-BTK clinical trial, the first U.S. Investigational Device Exemption trial for a fully resorbable device targeting critical limb ischemia (CLI) in patients with advanced peripheral artery disease (PAD). The Esprit BTK Everolimus Eluting Resorbable Scaffold System aims to improve treatment outcomes by reducing the chance of artery re-narrowing. The FDA granted breakthrough device designation to this technology, which will be assessed for safety and efficacy in 225 patients globally. This trial could mark significant progress in treating PAD.