Merck Exceeds Third-Quarter Estimates and Raises Profit Outlook Driven by Keytruda Sales
Merck (MRK) reported third-quarter financial results that surpassed analyst expectations for both revenue and earnings per share. The pharmaceutical giant's performance was primarily driven by its blockbuster immunotherapy, Keytruda, which generated $8.60 billion in sales. Notably, the newer injectable version, Qlex, saw significant traction with $830 million in quarterly sales, exceeding market estimates. In response to these strong results, Merck raised its adjusted profit outlook for the year and narrowed its 2026 revenue guidance. The company is aggressively pursuing a strategy to transition patients to the subcutaneous Qlex formulation to defend its market share against upcoming patent expirations in 2028. Other key contributors included Winrevair, which saw 93% year-over-year growth, and Gardasil vaccine sales.
Tickers: $MRK
Topics: earnings report immunotherapy sales pharmaceuticals revenue guidance