Welcome to our dedicated page for Merck & Co news (Ticker: MRK), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Merck & Co stock.
Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, is a renowned American multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey. Originally the American arm of Germany's Merck Group founded in 1668, Merck has established itself as a global leader in pharmaceuticals and vaccines.
Merck's core business is the development and manufacturing of medications and vaccines spanning several therapeutic areas such as cardiometabolic diseases, cancer, and infections. The company's immuno-oncology platform, particularly strong in cancer treatment, is a significant revenue driver. The firm’s oncology portfolio includes groundbreaking immunotherapies like KEYTRUDA, designed to treat melanoma and other cancers. KEYTRUDA, in combination with other therapies, has shown promising results in reducing cancer recurrence and improving survival rates.
Merck also boasts a robust vaccine business, offering vaccines for pediatric diseases and human papillomavirus (HPV). Their commitment to public health extends to Merck for Mothers, an initiative aimed at improving maternal health globally. In 2024, Merck surpassed its goal early by reaching over 30 million women with programs promoting safe, high-quality maternal care.
The company's animal health division is another sector of its diverse operations, providing solutions to improve animal health and productivity.
From a geographical perspective, nearly half of Merck's sales are generated in the United States. Financially, Merck maintains a solid position with ongoing investments in research and development to fuel innovation. The company is actively engaged in numerous partnerships and collaborative research initiatives to accelerate the development of new therapies.
Merck’s mission is rooted in scientific excellence and an unwavering commitment to improving lives. The company continues to invest in leading-edge research, with over 2,250 ongoing clinical trials, including more than 1,600 trials evaluating combination regimens. This dedication underpins Merck's strategy to address complex health challenges and advance global health.
Merck and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics report new data from the Phase 3 MOVe-OUT trial for LAGEVRIO (molnupiravir), an oral antiviral for high-risk COVID-19 patients. Key findings show a 32.1% reduction in acute care visits in LAGEVRIO patients versus placebo. The need for respiratory interventions was 34.3% lower in LAGEVRIO-treated participants. Those hospitalized after randomization had a median discharge time of 9 days vs. 12 days for placebo. LAGEVRIO has demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing severe COVID-19 progression.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) is poised for significant growth in oncology, with over 80 potential drug approvals anticipated by 2028. During the ASCO Annual Meeting, the company presented nearly 120 abstracts covering more than 25 cancer types, showcasing its comprehensive oncology portfolio. Merck has achieved 12 FDA approvals in the past year, including five for early-stage cancers. The firm emphasizes its commitment to advancing cancer treatment through a diverse pipeline targeting various cancer mechanisms, including immuno-oncology and molecular therapies.
Merck announced positive results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-716 trial of KEYTRUDA, demonstrating a significant improvement in distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) for patients with resected stage IIB and IIC melanoma. With a median follow-up of 27.4 months, KEYTRUDA showed a DMFS hazard ratio of 0.64 and a recurrence-free survival (RFS) hazard ratio of 0.64 as well. The drug received FDA approval for adjuvant treatment of this patient group and a positive opinion from the EU CHMP. Safety data indicated a consistent profile with previous studies, though higher rates of adverse events were noted.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.69 per share for Q3 2022. This dividend will be paid on July 8, 2022, to shareholders on record as of June 15, 2022. The company continues to focus on advancing health solutions through innovative research and development in the biopharmaceutical sector.
The European Commission has approved Merck's KEYTRUDA in combination with chemotherapy for adults with high-risk early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). This decision, based on the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-522 trial, demonstrated a 37% reduction in the risk of event-free survival (EFS) events compared to chemotherapy alone. The approval represents the first immunotherapy option for this patient group in the EU and the fifth indication for KEYTRUDA in breast or gynecologic cancer in less than a year. The treatment is now available across all 27 EU member states.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) has received a positive opinion from the European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) recommending the approval of KEYTRUDA as an adjuvant treatment for stage IIB and IIC melanoma in patients aged 12 and older following complete resection. This follows successful results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-716 trial, which showed significant improvements in recurrence-free and distant metastasis-free survival compared to placebo. A final decision by the European Commission is anticipated in Q2 or Q3 of 2022.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced the presentation of data from six approved medicines and pipeline candidates targeting over 25 cancers at the 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago from June 3-7. Highlights include findings from KEYTRUDA, WELIREG, LYNPARZA, and LENVIMA, alongside investigational therapies like favezelimab and MK-0482. Key data emphasize advancements in treatment for cancers such as melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and triple-negative breast cancer. An Oncology Investor Event will occur on June 7, providing insights into Merck's oncology strategy.
Organon reported first quarter 2022 revenue of $1,567 million, a 4% increase from the previous year. Net income from continuing operations was $348 million or $1.36 per diluted share, reflecting a 12% decline year-over-year. The company’s adjusted net income was $420 million or $1.65 per diluted share, down 7%. Organon continues to grow its women's health offerings and affirmed its full-year financial guidance. A quarterly dividend of $0.28 was declared, payable on June 16, 2022.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced that Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Caroline Litchfield will take part in a fireside chat at the Bank of America Securities 2022 Healthcare Conference. This event is set for May 11 at 11:40 a.m. ET, and interested parties can listen live through the provided link.
With over 130 years of experience, Merck is committed to advancing health care through innovative medicines and vaccines. The company addresses serious diseases, including cancer and infectious diseases, aiming to enhance global health access.
The European Commission has approved Merck's KEYTRUDA for treating microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) tumors in adults. This approval applies to various cancers, including colorectal, endometrial, gastric, small intestine, and biliary cancers, post previous therapies. KEYTRUDA's efficacy was supported by two Phase 2 trials, showing objective response rates of up to 56% across indications. This marks the second approval for KEYTRUDA related to MSI-H/dMMR biomarkers in Europe, expanding treatment options for patients facing advanced cancer.
FAQ
What is the current stock price of Merck & Co (MRK)?
What is the market cap of Merck & Co (MRK)?
What are the main therapeutic areas Merck focuses on?
What is Merck for Mothers?
What are some of Merck’s key products in oncology?
How significant is Merck’s vaccine business?
Where is Merck headquartered?
What percentage of Merck’s sales comes from the United States?
What is Merck's approach to research and development?
What recent achievements has Merck announced?
Does Merck collaborate with other companies for research?
What is the historical origin of Merck & Co., Inc.?
