Merck & Co Stock Price, News & Analysis

Merck (NYSE: MRK) and AstraZeneca have released positive data from the Phase 3 OlympiA trial, highlighting LYNPARZA's effectiveness as an adjuvant treatment for patients with germline BRCA-mutated early breast cancer. The trial demonstrated a 32% reduction in the risk of death (HR=0.68) compared to placebo, with three-year survival rates of 92.8% for LYNPARZA versus 89.1% for placebo. These findings will be showcased at the European Society for Medical Oncology Virtual Plenary, marking a significant advancement for early breast cancer treatment.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced the discontinuation of the Phase 3 KEYLYNK-010 trial, which studied KEYTRUDA with LYNPARZA for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. The independent Data Monitoring Committee recommended stopping the trial after an interim analysis revealed no overall survival benefit compared to control treatments. The combination also showed a higher incidence of serious adverse events. Despite this setback, Merck continues to explore other KEYTRUDA combinations across various cancers, maintaining a strong clinical development program.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced that LYNPARZA received FDA approval as the first targeted adjuvant therapy for patients with BRCA-mutated, HER2-negative high-risk early breast cancer. This is a significant milestone as LYNPARZA demonstrated a 42% reduction in the risk of invasive breast cancer recurrence and a 32% reduction in the risk of death compared to placebo, based on the Phase 3 OlympiA trial. Merck will make a $175 million payment to AstraZeneca under their collaboration agreement following this approval, potentially enhancing the market position of LYNPARZA.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) will host a virtual investor event on April 5, 2022, at 10:00am ET, after the American College of Cardiology Scientific Session 2022. The event will provide insights into Merck’s extensive cardiovascular portfolio and pipeline. Cardiovascular disease remains a significant global health issue, claiming approximately 18 million lives annually. Merck highlights its commitment to innovation and research in this field, aiming to improve patient outcomes. For more details, visit Merck's investor relations website.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced positive results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-716 trial, which evaluated KEYTRUDA as adjuvant treatment for patients with resected stage IIB and IIC melanoma. The trial met its key secondary endpoint of distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), showing a statistically significant improvement compared to placebo. Additionally, KEYTRUDA demonstrated improved recurrence-free survival (RFS) at previous analyses. No new safety concerns were noted, reinforcing its efficacy as an adjuvant therapy. Full results will be presented at an upcoming medical meeting.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) has announced that Caroline Litchfield, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will participate in a fireside chat at Cowen’s 42nd Annual Health Care Conference on Monday, March 7, at 12:50 p.m. ET. This virtual event invites investors, analysts, media, and the public to listen via a provided link. With over 130 years in the industry, Merck continues to focus on developing medicines and vaccines to combat various diseases globally.

Organon (NYSE: OGN) announced that CEO Kevin Ali and CFO Matthew Walsh will participate in a fireside chat at the Cowen 42nd Annual Healthcare Virtual Conference on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, at 9:10 a.m. EST. A live video webcast of the event will be accessible for investors, analysts, media, and the public. Organon, a global healthcare company formed from a Merck spin-off, focuses on women's health with a diverse portfolio of over 60 products. The company aims to innovate and partner with biopharmaceutical innovators, leveraging its significant global presence.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced the retirement of Dr. Julie L. Gerberding, chief patient officer, effective May 2022. Dr. Gerberding will join the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health as CEO on May 16. During her 12-year tenure at Merck, she significantly enhanced the company's commitment to patient care and sustainability, contributing to its environmental, social, and governance strategies. CEO Robert M. Davis praised her leadership and impact on both the company and global health initiatives.

Organon (NYSE: OGN) has appointed Meghan Rivera as the new US Managing Director, bringing over 20 years of experience in biopharmaceuticals and digital therapeutics. Ms. Rivera will lead the company's US Commercial Operations team, consisting of 400 staff, aiming to capitalize on growth in women's health, biosimilars, and established brands. Previously, she held key roles at Akili Interactive and AMAG Pharmaceuticals. Organon, a company spun off from Merck (NYSE: MRK), has a strong portfolio of over 60 products focused on women's health, supported by solid cash flows for innovation and growth.