Merck & Co Stock Price, News & Analysis

Merck (NYSE: MRK) and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics released findings from the PANORAMIC study, showing that LAGEVRIO did not significantly reduce hospitalizations or deaths compared to usual care within 28 days. However, patients on LAGEVRIO experienced a 6-day shorter recovery time. The Clalit study indicated LAGEVRIO reduced hospitalizations and mortality in patients aged 65 and older, while showing no benefit for those aged 40-64. Additionally, a carcinogenicity study demonstrated no cancer risk associated with LAGEVRIO.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) received a favorable ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit regarding a patent challenge on sitagliptin, a key ingredient in JANUVIA, JANUMET, and JANUMET XR. This ruling affirms the validity of U.S. Patent No. 7,326,708, ensuring patent protection until May 2027, including pediatric exclusivity. The company has settled with multiple generics, allowing market entry for sitagliptin products in May 2026 and extended-release versions by July 2026.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) is set to hold its third-quarter 2022 sales and earnings conference call at 8:00 a.m. ET on Thursday, October 27. During this conference, executives will discuss the company's performance for the quarter and provide future outlook. A live audio webcast will be available, and a replay along with detailed financial disclosures will be accessible on the company's website.

Merck aims to leverage innovative health solutions to advance disease prevention and treatment globally, while maintaining a commitment to a diverse workforce and sustainable practices.

Merck Animal Health, a part of Merck & Co. (NYSE:MRK), has made a minority investment in LeeO Precision Farming B.V. and will distribute its digital swine traceability solution in selected markets. This cloud-based platform allows for real-time tracking of swine throughout their lifecycle, covering key life events from birth to transportation. The investment aims to enhance animal health solutions and traceability technology, fostering collaboration for better livestock management. LeeO's CEO expressed optimism about growth opportunities stemming from this partnership.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced that KEYTRUDA received four new approvals from Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, increasing its total to 23 approved uses across 13 cancer types. The new indications include:

• Neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatment for hormone receptor-negative breast cancer.
• Adjuvant treatment for renal cell carcinoma post-nephrectomy.
• Treatment for advanced cervical cancer.
• Adjuvant treatment for stage IIB and IIC melanoma.

These approvals aim to address rising cancer mortality rates in Japan, particularly for breast cancer.

Merck Animal Health has announced its acquisition of Vence, a leader in virtual fencing technology aimed at enhancing rotational grazing and livestock management. This initiative is set to expand Merck's portfolio of animal intelligence solutions, potentially increasing operational efficiencies for cattle producers. The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2022, reinforcing Merck's commitment to advancing animal health and well-being.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) and AstraZeneca announced that LYNPARZA has received approval in China as first-line maintenance treatment for patients with advanced ovarian cancer exhibiting homologous recombination deficiency (HRD)-positive status. The approval is based on the favorable outcomes of the Phase 3 PAOLA-1 trial showing significant progression-free survival (PFS) benefits. In China, ovarian cancer has a survival rate of ~39% among patients with advanced stages. This new treatment option is expected to enhance clinical outcomes for HRD-positive patients.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) achieved a significant legal victory as the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia ruled in its favor in a patent infringement lawsuit against Viatris concerning sitagliptin, an active ingredient in JANUVIA and JANUMET. The court upheld the validity of two Merck patents, with expiration dates set for 2026 and 2029. Viatris aims to launch generic versions but faces challenges following this ruling. Merck has already settled agreements allowing generics to enter the market by May 2026. This decision is subject to appeal.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced the resumption of a Phase 2 study on an investigational weekly oral combination treatment of islatravir and lenacapavir for HIV-1, using a lower dose of islatravir. Merck will discontinue its monthly oral islatravir development for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) but plans to initiate a new Phase 3 clinical program for once-daily islatravir and doravirine. The FDA has approved this new approach, highlighting Merck's commitment to HIV treatment.