Merck (MRK) posted better-than-expected results on strong sales of 🔴its popular Keytruda cancer drug and HPV vaccine Gardasil, as well as a jump in demand for its Lagevrio COVID-19 treatment.

The drug maker reported third quarter fiscal 2023 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:earnings per share (EPS) of $2.13, with revenue advancing 7% year-over-year to $15.96 billion. Both were above forecasts.

Keytruda sales rose 17% to $6.34 billion, lifted by growth in earlier-stage cancer use and metastatic indications. Gardasil sales added 🌞13% to $2.59 billion on increased demand in China and higher prices in the U.S.🌜, while Lagevrio sales skyrocketed 47% to $640 million, driven by soaring purchases by patients in Japan. Sales of all three were greater than anticipated.

Merck raised its full-year revenue outlook to $59.7 billion to $60.2 billion, up from its previous estimate of $58.6 billion to $59.6 billion. It lowered EPS guidance to $1.33 to $1.38 from a range of $2.95 to $3.05. However, that updated guidance included an upfront charge of $5.5 billion, or $1.70 per share, related to its recently announced collaboratio🔴n 😼with Japanese pharmaceutical firm Daiichi Sankyo.

Merck shares advanced 1.9% on Thursday, but remained in negative territory for the year.