Merck and Co Inc (MRK)

FDA Approves KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) and KEYTRUDA QLEX™ (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph), Each With WELIREG® (belzutifan), for Adjuvant Treatment of Certain Patients With Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC)June 12, 2026 4:10 PM
Business Wire Marks the first approved combinations of a PD-1 and HIF-2a inhibitor Approvals based on Phase 3 LITESPARK-022 trial that showed KEYTRUDA in combination with WELIREG reduced the risk of disease recurrence, metastasis or death by 28% compared to KEYTRUDA plus placebo Represents the first and only global Phase 3 study to have demonstrated an improvement in disease-free survival over KEYTRUDA monotherapy in adjuvant ccRCC Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) and KEYTRUDA QLEXTM (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph), Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapies, each in combination with WELIREG® (belzutifan), Merck’s first-in-class, oral hypoxia-inducible factor-2 alpha (HIF-2a) inhibitor, for the adjuvant treatment of adult patients with renal cell carcinoma with a clear cell component (ccRCC) at intermediate-high or high risk of recurrence following nephrectomy, or following nephrectomy and resection of metastatic lesions. These approvals represent the first approval for WELIREG in earlier-stage ccRCC and the first approvals for PD-1 and HIF-2a inhibitor combination regimens. The approvals are based on results from the pivotal Phase 3 LITESPARK-022 trial. LITESPARK-022 enrolled 1,841 patients and demonstrated that KEYTRUDA in combination with WELIREG significantly improved disease-free survival (DFS), the trial’s primary endpoint, reducing the risk of disease recurrence, metastasis or death by 28% (HR=0.72 [95% CI 0.59-0.87]; p=0.0003) for patients with ccRCC at intermediate-high or high risk of recurrence following nephrectomy, or following nephrectomy and resection of metastatic lesions compared to KEYTRUDA plus placebo. The estimated 24-month DFS rate was 81% (95% CI 0.78-0.83) with KEYTRUDA plus WELIREG compared to 74% (95% CI 0.71-0.77) with KEYTRUDA plus placebo. Median DFS was not reached in either arm. Overall survival (OS) results were not yet mature at this interim analysis. The effectiveness of KEYTRUDA QLEX for its approved indications has been established based upon evidence from the adequate and well-controlled studies conducted with KEYTRUDA and additional data from MK-3475A-D77 comparing the pharmacokinetic, efficacy, and safety profiles of KEYTRUDA QLEX and KEYTRUDA. The WELIREG prescribing information contains a boxed warning that exposure to WELIREG during pregnancy can cause embryo-fetal harm. Verify pregnancy status prior to the initiation of WELIREG. Advise patients of these risks and the need for effective non-hormonal contraception. WELIREG can render some hormonal contraceptives ineffective. WELIREG can cause severe anemia that can require blood transfusion. Monitor for anemia before initiation of, and periodically throughout, treatment with WELIREG. WELIREG can cause severe hypoxia that may require discontinuation, supplemental oxygen or hospitalization. Monitor oxygen saturation before initiation of, and periodically throughout, treatment with WELIREG. For more information, see “Selected Safety Information” below. KEYTRUDA QLEX is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to berahyaluronidase alfa, hyaluronidase or to any of its excipients. KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX are associated with the following Warnings and Precautions: severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions in any or multiple organs, which can occur during or after treatment, including pneumonitis, colitis, hepatitis, endocrinopathies, nephritis, dermatologic reactions, solid organ transplant rejection, other transplant (including corneal graft) rejection; severe and life-threatening infusion or injection-related reactions; fatal and other serious complications in patients who receive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation before or after beginning treatment; embryo-fetal toxicity; and increased mortality in patients with multiple myeloma when KEYTRUDA or KEYTRUDA QLEX is added to a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone, which is not recommended outside of controlled trials. Immune-mediated adverse reactions listed here may not include all such possible severe or fatal reactions. For more information, see “Selected Safety Information” below. “Patients with earlier-stage renal cell carcinoma at high risk of recurrence after surgery may see their cancer return, frequently as metastatic disease,” said Dr. Toni K. Choueiri, director, Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Jerome and Nancy Kohlberg professor of medicine, Harvard Medical School. “The results of the LITESPARK-022 trial demonstrated the ability of pembrolizumab in combination with belzutifan to reduce the risk of disease recurrence, metastasis, or death by 28%, which represents an important new option for these patients to help keep their clear cell renal cell carcinoma from coming back.” “Reflecting on my own experience as a clinical oncologist, I know the significant impact that improved disease-free survival can have on the lives of patients,” said Dr. M. Catherine Pietanza, vice president, global clinical development, Merck Research Laboratories. “These approvals demonstrate Merck’s commitment to pursuing innovative treatment options that may help these patients experience longer periods without disease.” “The FDA approval of the novel KEYTRUDA and WELIREG combination is exciting news for the kidney cancer community,” said Bryan Lewis, CEO and co-founder, KidneyCan. “This progress reflects an important step in addressing the needs of patients with earlier-stage renal cell carcinoma.” Study design and additional data from LITESPARK-022 LITESPARK-022 is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind Phase 3 trial (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05239728) evaluating WELIREG in combination with KEYTRUDA compared to placebo plus KEYTRUDA for the adjuvant treatment of ccRCC post nephrectomy. Eligible patients had intermediate-high or high risk of recurrence of RCC, or M1 no evidence of disease (NED). Patients must have undergone a partial or radical nephrectomy, and if indicated, metastasectomy within two years of nephrectomy, within ≥4 weeks prior to the time of screening. Patients were excluded from the trial if they had received prior systemic therapy for advanced RCC. The trial enrolled 1,841 patients who were randomized (1:1) to receive either: WELIREG (120 mg orally once daily) plus KEYTRUDA (400 mg intravenously [IV] every six weeks) for up to 9 cycles (54 weeks) until disease recurrence or unacceptable toxicity (n=921), or; KEYTRUDA (400 mg IV every six weeks) plus oral placebo for up to 9 cycles (54 weeks) until disease recurrence or unacceptable toxicity (n=920). The major efficacy outcome measure was investigator-assessed DFS and an additional outcome measure was OS. The safety of WELIREG in combination with KEYTRUDA was evaluated in LITESPARK-022. A total of 915 patients received WELIREG in combination with KEYTRUDA and a total of 913 patients received oral placebo in combination with KEYTRUDA. The median duration of exposure to WELIREG was 12.4 months (range 1 day to 20.1 months). The median duration of exposure to KEYTRUDA in the treatment arm was 11.1 months (range: 1 day to 16.1 months). Serious adverse reactions occurred in 30% of patients who received WELIREG in combination with KEYTRUDA. The most frequently reported serious adverse reactions (≥1%) were pneumonia (2%), hypoxia (1.9%), pneumonitis (1.6%), arrhythmia (1.5%), diarrhea (1.1%), and acute kidney injury (1.1%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 1.1% of patients who received WELIREG in combination with KEYTRUDA, including sepsis (0.1%). WELIREG was permanently discontinued due to adverse reactions in 27% of patients. Adverse reactions which resulted in permanent discontinuation of WELIREG in ≥1% of patients included anemia (4%), fatigue (2.2%), rash (2%), increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (1.7%), hypoxia (1.6%), diarrhea (1.4%), pneumonitis (1.3%), increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (1.1%), and hepatic function abnormal (1%). KEYTRUDA was permanently discontinued due to adverse reactions in 23% of patients. Adverse reactions which resulted in permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in ≥1% of patients included increased ALT (4.5%), increased AST (3%), pneumonitis (2.4%), diarrhea (2.4%), and rash (1.5%). Dosage interruptions of WELIREG due to an adverse reaction occurred in 52% of patients. Of the patients who received WELIREG in combination with KEYTRUDA, 30% were ≥65 years old and 5% were ≥75 years old. Dose interruptions of WELIREG occurred in 57% of patients ≥65 years of age and in 49% of younger patients. Adverse reactions which required dosage interruption of WELIREG in ≥2% of patients included anemia (25%), fatigue (3.7%), increased ALT (3.5%), diarrhea (3.4%), increased AST (3.4%), COVID-19 (2.6%), hypoxia (2.5%), pyrexia (2.5%), musculoskeletal pain (2.1%), and rash (2.1%). Dose interruptions of KEYTRUDA due to an adverse reaction occurred in 29% of patients. Adverse reactions which required dosage interruption of KEYTRUDA in ≥2% of patients included anemia (3.2%), diarrhea (3%), increased ALT (3%), and increased AST (2.5%). Dose reductions of WELIREG due to an adverse reaction occurred in 34% of patients. Dose reductions of WELIREG occurred in 39% of patients ≥65 years of age and in 32% of younger patients. Adverse reactions which required dose reduction in ≥3% of patients included anemia (17%), hypoxia (3.5%), increased ALT (3.2%), and fatigue (3.1%). The most common (≥25%) adverse reactions, including laboratory abnormalities, in patients who received WELIREG in combination with KEYTRUDA were decreased hemoglobin (95%), increased ALT (57%), fatigue (49%), increased AST (46%), decreased lymphocytes (38%), and increased alkaline phosphatase (29%). About renal cell carcinoma Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common type of kidney cancer, with about nine out of 10 kidney cancer diagnoses being RCC. In 2022, there were about 435,000 new cases of kidney cancer diagnosed and approximately 156,000 deaths from the disease worldwide. In the U.S., it is estimated there will be more than 80,000 new cases of kidney cancer diagnosed and more than 15,000 deaths from the disease in 2026. Renal cell carcinoma is about twice as common in men as in women. Cases of RCC might be discovered incidentally during imaging tests for other reasons. Clear cell renal cell carcinoma, which accounts for 70% of RCC diagnoses, is the most common subtype. About Merck’s early-stage cancer clinical program Finding cancer at an earlier stage may give patients a greater chance of long-term survival. Many cancers are considered most treatable and potentially curable in their earliest stage of disease. Building on the strong understanding of the role of KEYTRUDA in later-stage cancers, Merck is evaluating our portfolio of medicines and pipeline candidates in earlier disease states, with more than 30 ongoing registrational studies across multiple types of cancer. About Merck’s research in genitourinary cancers Merck is advancing research aimed at helping transform the treatment landscape and broaden options for people with genitourinary (GU) cancers, including bladder, kidney and prostate cancers. Globally, GU cancers account for an estimated 2.6 million new cancer diagnoses each year, equaling over 1 in 8 of all cancer incidences. Through a robust clinical development program with more than 50 ongoing clinical trials evaluating more than 22,000 patients around the world, Merck is investigating the potential of several portfolio medicines and pipeline assets, leveraging multiple novel combination strategies, across various stages of disease, to help address unmet needs in GU cancers. About WELIREG® (belzutifan) 40 mg tablets, for oral use WELIREG, Merck’s first-in-class hypoxia-inducible factor 2 alpha (HIF-2a) inhibitor, is an orally administered small-molecule that in conditions of hypoxia or impairment of VHL protein function, blocks HIF-2alpha and HIF-1beta interaction, which may reduce the transcription and expression of HIF-2a target genes associated with cellular proliferation, angiogenesis and tumor growth. By inhibiting HIF-2a signaling, WELIREG may disrupt key pathways certain tumors may use to adapt to low-oxygen conditions, including those that help promote abnormal blood vessel formation and support tumor survival. WELIREG has received prior regulatory approvals in certain patients with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease-associated tumors, advanced renal cell carcinoma with a clear cell component (ccRCC) and pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma (PPGL). As part of a broader clinical program, Merck continues to research WELIREG for people with RCC and selected solid tumors across different treatment settings, to further understand where WELIREG may provide clinical benefit. Indications for WELIREG (belzutifan) in the U.S. von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease WELIREG is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease who require therapy for associated renal cell carcinoma (RCC), central nervous system (CNS) hemangioblastomas, or pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET), not requiring immediate surgery. Renal Cell Carcinoma with a Clear Cell Component (ccRCC) WELIREG, in combination with KEYTRUDA or KEYTRUDA QLEX, is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of adult patients with ccRCC at intermediate-high or high risk of recurrence following nephrectomy, or following nephrectomy and resection of metastatic lesions. WELIREG is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with advanced ccRCC following a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) or programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitor and a vascular endothelial growth factor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (VEGF-TKI). Pheochromocytoma or Paraganglioma (PPGL) WELIREG is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients 12 years and older with locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma (PPGL). Selected Safety Information for WELIREG Warning: Embryo-Fetal Toxicity Exposure to WELIREG during pregnancy can cause embryo-fetal harm. Verify pregnancy status prior to the initiation of WELIREG. Advise patients of these risks and the need for effective non-hormonal contraception as WELIREG can render some hormonal contraceptives ineffective. Anemia WELIREG can cause severe anemia that can require blood transfusion. Monitor for anemia before initiation of, and periodically throughout, treatment with WELIREG. Transfuse patients as clinically indicated. Withhold, reduce dose, or permanently discontinue WELIREG based on severity. In LITESPARK-004 (N=61), decreased hemoglobin occurred in 93% of patients with VHL disease and 7% had Grade 3 events. Median time to onset of anemia was 31 days (range: 1 day to 8.4 months). The safety of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) for treatment of anemia in patients with VHL disease treated with WELIREG has not been established. In LITESPARK-005 (n=372), decreased hemoglobin occurred in 88% of patients with advanced ccRCC and 29% had Grade 3 events. Median time to onset of anemia was 29 days (range: 1 day to 16.6 months). Of the patients with anemia, 22% received transfusions only, 20% received ESAs only, and 12% received both transfusion and ESAs. In LITESPARK-022 (n=915), decreased hemoglobin occurred in 95% of patients receiving adjuvant treatment for ccRCC and 11% had Grade 3 or higher events. Median time to onset of anemia was 42 days (range: 1 day to 11.1 months). Of the patients with anemia, 5% received transfusions only, 8% received ESAs only, and 1.3% received both transfusion and ESAs. In LITESPARK-015 (n=72), anemia occurred in 96% of patients with PPGL and 22% had Grade 3 events. Median time to onset of anemia was 29 days (range: 1 day to 22.1 months). Of the patients with anemia, 20% received transfusions only, 26% received ESAs only, and 6% received both transfusion and ESAs. Hypoxia WELIREG can cause severe hypoxia that may require discontinuation, supplemental oxygen, or hospitalization. Monitor oxygen saturation before initiation of, and periodically throughout, treatment. For decreased oxygen saturation with exercise (e.g., pulse oximeter 3% of patients were hypoxia, nausea, and fatigue (4.2% each). Dose reductions due to an adverse reaction occurred in 14% of patients. The most frequently reported adverse reaction which required dose reduction was hypoxia (4.2%). The most common (≥25%) adverse reactions, including laboratory abnormalities, that occurred in patients were anemia (96%), fatigue (56%), musculoskeletal pain (56%), decreased lymphocytes (54%), increased alanine aminotransferase (51%), increased aspartate aminotransferase (42%), increased calcium (34%), dyspnea (33%), increased potassium (31%), decreased leukocytes (30%), headache (29%), increased alkaline phosphatase (25%), dizziness (26%) and nausea (25%). Drug Interactions Coadministration of WELIREG with inhibitors of UGT2B17 or CYP2C19 increases plasma exposure of belzutifan, which may increase the incidence and severity of adverse reactions. Monitor for anemia and hypoxia and reduce the dosage of WELIREG as recommended. Coadministration of WELIREG with CYP3A4 substrates decreases concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates, which may reduce the efficacy of these substrates or lead to therapeutic failures. Avoid coadministration with sensitive CYP3A4 substrates. If coadministration cannot be avoided, increase the sensitive CYP3A4 substrate dosage in accordance with its Prescribing Information. Coadministration of WELIREG with hormonal contraceptives may lead to contraceptive failure or an increase in breakthrough bleeding. Lactation Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed children, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with WELIREG and for 1 week after the last dose. Females and Males of Reproductive Potential WELIREG can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating treatment with WELIREG. Use of WELIREG may reduce the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective non-hormonal contraception during treatment with WELIREG and for 1 week after the last dose. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with WELIREG and for 1 week after the last dose. Based on findings in animals, WELIREG may impair fertility in males and females of reproductive potential and the reversibility of this effect is unknown. Pediatric Use Use of WELIREG in pediatric patients aged 12 years and older is supported by evidence from an adequate and well-controlled study of WELIREG in adults with additional pharmacokinetic data demonstrating that belzutifan exposure is predicted to be within range of that observed in adults, and that the course of locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma is sufficiently similar in adults and pediatric patients to allow extrapolation of data in adults to pediatric patients. The safety and effectiveness of WELIREG have not been established in patients with VHL or ccRCC, or in pediatric patients younger than 12 years of age with PPGL. Renal Impairment For patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR 15-29 mL/min estimated by MDRD), monitor for increased adverse reactions and modify the dosage as recommended. Hepatic Impairment For patients with moderate and severe hepatic impairment, monitor for increased adverse reactions and modify the dosage as recommended. About KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) injection for intravenous use, 100 mg KEYTRUDA is an anti-programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) therapy that works by increasing the ability of the body’s immune system to help detect and fight tumor cells. KEYTRUDA is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD- L1 and PD-L2, thereby activating T lymphocytes which may affect both tumor cells and healthy cells. Merck has the industry’s largest immuno-oncology clinical research program. There are currently more than 2,800 trials studying KEYTRUDA across a wide variety of cancers and treatment settings. The KEYTRUDA clinical program seeks to understand the role of KEYTRUDA across cancers and the factors that may predict a patient's likelihood of benefitting from treatment with KEYTRUDA, including exploring several different biomarkers. About KEYTRUDA QLEX™ (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph) injection for subcutaneous use, 165 mg + 2,000 units/mL KEYTRUDA QLEX is a fixed-combination drug product of pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa. Pembrolizumab is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) blocking antibody and berahyaluronidase alfa enhances dispersion and permeability to enable subcutaneous administration of pembrolizumab. KEYTRUDA QLEX is administered as a subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdomen, avoiding the 5 cm area around the navel, over one minute every three weeks (2.4 mL) or over two minutes every six weeks (4.8 mL). Selected Indications in the U.S. for KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) and KEYTRUDA QLEX™ (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph) Renal Cell Carcinoma KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX are each indicated, in combination with axitinib, for the first-line treatment of adult patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX are each indicated for the adjuvant treatment of adult patients with RCC at intermediate-high or high risk of recurrence following nephrectomy, or following nephrectomy and resection of metastatic lesions. KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX are each indicated, in combination with WELIREG, for the adjuvant treatment of adult patients with RCC with a clear cell component (ccRCC) at intermediate-high or high risk of recurrence following nephrectomy, or following nephrectomy and resection of metastatic lesions. See additional selected KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX indications in the U.S. after the Selected Safety Information. Selected Safety Information for KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX Contraindications KEYTRUDA QLEX is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to berahyaluronidase alfa, hyaluronidase or to any of its excipients. Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX are monoclonal antibodies that belong to a class of drugs that bind to either the programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) or the programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, thereby removing inhibition of the immune response, potentially breaking peripheral tolerance and inducing immune-mediated adverse reactions. Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue, can affect more than one body system simultaneously, and can occur at any time after starting treatment or after discontinuation of treatment. Important immune-mediated adverse reactions listed here may not include all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions. Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Early identification and management are essential to ensure safe use of anti–PD-1/PD-L1 treatments. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment. For patients with TNBC treated with KEYTRUDA or KEYTRUDA QLEX in the neoadjuvant setting, monitor blood cortisol at baseline, prior to surgery, and as clinically indicated. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate. Withhold or permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX depending on severity of the immune-mediated adverse reaction. In general, if KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX require interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy. Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. The incidence is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3.4% (94/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including fatal (0.1%), Grade 4 (0.3%), Grade 3 (0.9%), and Grade 2 (1.3%) reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 67% (63/94) of patients. Pneumonitis led to permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 1.3% (36) and withholding in 0.9% (26) of patients. All patients who were withheld reinitiated KEYTRUDA after symptom improvement; of these, 23% had recurrence. Pneumonitis resolved in 59% of the 94 patients. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 5% (13/251) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA QLEX in combination with chemotherapy, including fatal (0.4%), Grade 3 (2%), and Grade 2 (1.2%) adverse reactions. Pneumonitis occurred in 7% (41/580) of adult patients with resected NSCLC who received KEYTRUDA as a single agent for adjuvant treatment of NSCLC, including fatal (0.2%), Grade 4 (0.3%), and Grade 3 (1%) adverse reactions. Patients received high-dose corticosteroids for a median duration of 10 days (range: 1 day to 2.3 months). Pneumonitis led to discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 26 (4.5%) of patients. Of the patients who developed pneumonitis, 54% interrupted KEYTRUDA, 63% discontinued KEYTRUDA, and 71% had resolution. Immune-Mediated Colitis KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may present with diarrhea. Cytomegalovirus infection/reactivation has been reported in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies. Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 1.7% (48/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 4 (

Merck Animal Health to Acquire TARGANJune 11, 2026 6:45 AM
Business Wire TARGAN’s innovative high-speed biodevice technology, including its gender identification product WingScan™, delivers enhanced poultry performance Merck Animal Health, known as MSD Animal Health outside of the United States and Canada, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (NYSE:MRK), today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire TARGAN, a privately held innovator in developing and commercializing biodevice solutions to improve performance outcomes for the poultry industry, for an undisclosed purchase price. Merck Animal Health has invested in TARGAN since 2017 and has been one of the company’s largest shareholders. The proposed acquisition is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2026, subject to approvals from applicable regulatory authorities and other customary closing conditions. “The acquisition of TARGAN’s best-in-class biodevice technology for use in commercial hatcheries complements and accelerates our growing biopharmaceutical presence in poultry and increases our ability to deliver significant customer value globally,” said Rick DeLuca, president, Merck Animal Health. “Additionally, TARGAN brings device development capabilities that will further strengthen our ability to provide animal health solutions across species. This transaction, coupled with our commercial and scientific expertise, is another example of how we deliver meaningful innovation to our customers while creating new opportunities for the future.” Upon closing, the acquisition is expected to broaden Merck Animal Health’s portfolio in commercial poultry operations with WingScan™, an automated solution that uses vision technology to identify and sort chicks by gender, processing up to 160,000 chicks per hour. The technology, which can scale to any size hatchery operation, captures high-resolution images of each chick’s feathers and analyzes them in real-time using advanced engineering capabilities and proprietary algorithms. This acquisition also brings the capability for a high-speed precision ocular spray technology, which administers respiratory and coccidiosis vaccines, among others, to day-old chicks. Additionally, TARGAN has the potential to develop additional biodevices within poultry and other livestock species, which may shape the next frontier in the animal health industry. TARGAN Founder and CEO Ramin Karimpour said, “Merck Animal Health has been a foundational partner of TARGAN since our inception through its belief and commitment to scientific excellence and a common goal of bringing technological innovation to the livestock industry. Through this proposed acquisition, TARGAN will be able to access resources and infrastructure of Merck Animal Health, which will be critical in deploying TARGAN’s innovative biodevice technology along with their broad portfolio of poultry vaccines for customers. Many colleagues over the years have made valuable contributions to the growth of our business, including our employees, venture capital investors and debt finance providers.” About TARGAN
TARGAN is an innovative animal AgTech systems company focused on transforming animal protein production industries worldwide. Founded in 2015 and based in Raleigh, North Carolina, the company's mission is to provide affordable, individualized technologies that will improve speed, accuracy and animal welfare. For more information, visit TARGAN.com. About Merck Animal Health
Merck Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA, is a global animal health business committed to The Science of Healthier Animals™. For more than 130 years, we have pioneered groundbreaking science. Today, we are driven by continuous innovation to develop breakthrough medicines, vaccines and technology. Rooted in direct experience on the farm and in the clinic, we work hand in hand with our customers every step of the way. Our singular focus is to empower those who care for animals, helping them manage their vital responsibility with confidence. Because when it comes to animal health, no one sees it like we do. For more information, visit www.merck-animal-health.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA
This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260610672968/en/ Media Contacts:
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peter.dannenbaum@merck.com Original: Merck Animal Health to Acquire TARGAN

Merck and Gilead Provide Update on Phase 3 KEYNOTE-D46/EVOKE-03 StudyJune 8, 2026 4:30 PM
Business Wire Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, and Gilead Sciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: GILD) today announced the discontinuation of the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-D46/EVOKE-03 study investigating Gilead’s Trodelvy® (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) in combination with KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab), Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, compared to KEYTRUDA monotherapy in certain patients with previously untreated metastatic non-small cell lung cancer, whose tumors expressed PD-L1 (tumor proportion score [TPS] ≥50%). The decision is based on the recommendation from the external Data Monitoring Committee (eDMC) following their review of the data from the pre-specified final analysis of progression-free survival (PFS) and interim analysis of overall survival (OS). This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260608789974/en/ A numerical improvement in PFS was observed, but did not reach statistical significance. The probability of achieving statistically significant OS is unlikely at the planned final analysis. The safety profile of Trodelvy in combination with KEYTRUDA was consistent with the known safety of each agent. No new safety signals were identified with the combination. These data will be presented at a future medical meeting. Regulatory authorities have been informed. Merck will inform study investigators of the recommendation from the DMC and advise patients in the study to speak to their physician regarding treatment. There are no changes to ongoing Trodelvy or Merck studies. The companies are grateful to the patients, families, and healthcare professionals who participated in the KEYNOTE-D46/EVOKE-03 study and contributed to this important work. Trodelvy is a registered trademark of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. KEYTRUDA® is a registered trademark of Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA. About Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with an estimated 2.5 million new cases reported globally in 2022. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 80% to 85% of lung cancers, and nearly half of these NSCLC patients are diagnosed only after the disease has spread, when treatment options are more limited and long-term survival remains low. Despite treatment advances, the 5-year survival rate for metastatic NSCLC is less than 10%. While immunotherapy, with or without chemotherapy, is a standard first treatment option, it does not work for everyone, and new treatment options are needed. About KEYNOTE-D46/EVOKE-03 The KEYNOTE-D46/EVOKE-03 study is a global, open-label, randomized Phase 3 trial, sponsored by Merck, evaluating the efficacy and safety of Trodelvy (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) in combination with KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) compared with KEYTRUDA monotherapy in patients with previously untreated metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) whose tumors express PD-L1 with a tumor proportion score (TPS) ≥50% and do not have sensitizing EGFR, ALK or ROS1 genomic alterations. Approximately 620 patients were enrolled across study sites worldwide. Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either Trodelvy (10 mg/kg intravenously on Days 1 and 8 of a 21-day cycle) plus KEYTRUDA (200 mg intravenously on Day 1 of a 21-day cycle), or KEYTRUDA monotherapy (200 mg intravenously on Day 1 of a 21-day cycle). KEYTRUDA was administered for up to 35 cycles, and Trodelvy was continued until disease progression, death, unacceptable toxicity or another treatment discontinuation criterion was met. The dual primary endpoints of the study are progression-free survival (PFS) as assessed by blinded independent central review (BICR) according to RECIST v1.1, and overall survival (OS). Secondary endpoints include objective response rate (ORR), duration of response (DOR), patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and safety. More information about the study is available at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05609968. About Trodelvy Trodelvy (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) is a first-in-class Trop-2-directed antibody-drug conjugate. Trop-2 is a cell surface antigen highly expressed in multiple tumor types, including in more than 90% of breast and lung cancers. Trodelvy is intentionally designed with a proprietary hydrolyzable linker attached to SN-38, a topoisomerase I inhibitor payload. This unique combination delivers potent activity to both Trop-2 expressing cells and the tumor microenvironment through a bystander effect. Trodelvy is currently approved in more than 60 countries for second-line or later metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and in more than 50 countries for certain patients with pre-treated HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer (mBC). Healthcare professionals have well-established experience with Trodelvy, which has shown generally consistent outcomes across both clinical trials and real-world use in more than 75,000 breast cancer patients across 60+ countries. Trodelvy is currently being evaluated in multiple ongoing Phase 3 trials across a range of tumor types with high Trop-2 expression. These studies with Trodelvy, both in monotherapy and in combination with pembrolizumab, involve earlier lines of treatment for TNBC and HR+/HER2- breast cancer—including in curative settings—as well as in small cell lung and gynecologic cancers, where previous proof-of-concept studies have demonstrated clinical activity. Indications for Trodelvy TRODELVY® (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) is a Trop-2-directed antibody and topoisomerase inhibitor conjugate indicated for the treatment of adult patients with: Unresectable locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC) who have received two or more prior systemic therapies, at least one of them for metastatic disease. Unresectable locally advanced or metastatic hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative (IHC 0, IHC 1+ or IHC 2+/ISH–) breast cancer who have received endocrine-based therapy and at least two additional systemic therapies in the metastatic setting. U.S. Important safety information FOR TRODELVY BOXED WARNING: NEUTROPENIA AND DIARRHEA TRODELVY can cause severe, life-threatening, or fatal neutropenia. Withhold TRODELVY for absolute neutrophil count below 1500/mm3 or neutropenic fever. Monitor blood cell counts periodically during treatment. Primary prophylaxis with G-CSF is recommended for all patients at increased risk of febrile neutropenia. Initiate anti-infective treatment in patients with febrile neutropenia without delay. TRODELVY can cause severe diarrhea. Monitor patients with diarrhea and give fluid and electrolytes as needed. At the onset of diarrhea, evaluate for infectious causes and, if negative, promptly initiate loperamide. If severe diarrhea occurs, withhold TRODELVY until resolved to ≤ Grade 1 and reduce subsequent doses. CONTRAINDICATIONS Severe hypersensitivity reaction to TRODELVY. WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Neutropenia: Severe, life-threatening, or fatal neutropenia can occur as early as the first cycle of treatment and may require dose modification. Neutropenia occurred in 64% of patients treated with TRODELVY. Grade 3-4 neutropenia occurred in 49% of patients. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 6%. Neutropenic colitis occurred in 1.4%. Primary prophylaxis with G-CSF is recommended starting in the first cycle of treatment in all patients at increased risk of febrile neutropenia, including older patients, patients with previous neutropenia, poor performance status, organ dysfunction, or multiple comorbidities. Monitor absolute neutrophil count (ANC) during treatment. Withhold TRODELVY for ANC below 1500/mm3 on Day 1 of any cycle or below 1000/mm3 on Day 8 of any cycle. Withhold TRODELVY for neutropenic fever. Treat neutropenia with G-CSF and administer prophylaxis in subsequent cycles as clinically indicated or indicated in Table 2 of USPI. Diarrhea: Diarrhea occurred in 64% of all patients treated with TRODELVY. Grade 3-4 diarrhea occurred in 11% of patients. One patient had intestinal perforation following diarrhea. Diarrhea that led to dehydration and subsequent acute kidney injury occurred in 0.7% of all patients. Withhold TRODELVY for Grade 3-4 diarrhea and resume when resolved to ≤ Grade 1. At onset, evaluate for infectious causes and if negative, promptly initiate loperamide, 4 mg initially followed by 2 mg with every episode of diarrhea for a maximum of 16 mg daily. Discontinue loperamide 12 hours after diarrhea resolves. Additional supportive measures (e.g., fluid and electrolyte substitution) may also be employed as clinically indicated. Patients who exhibit an excessive cholinergic response to treatment can receive appropriate premedication (e.g., atropine) for subsequent treatments. Hypersensitivity and Infusion-Related Reactions: TRODELVY can cause serious hypersensitivity reactions including life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. Severe signs and symptoms included cardiac arrest, hypotension, wheezing, angioedema, swelling, pneumonitis, and skin reactions. Hypersensitivity reactions within 24 hours of dosing occurred in 35% of patients. Grade 3-4 hypersensitivity occurred in 2% of patients. The incidence of hypersensitivity reactions leading to permanent discontinuation of TRODELVY was 0.2%. The incidence of anaphylactic reactions was 0.2%. Pre-infusion medication is recommended. Have medications and emergency equipment to treat such reactions available for immediate use. Observe patients closely for hypersensitivity and infusion-related reactions during each infusion and for at least 30 minutes after completion of each infusion. Permanently discontinue TRODELVY for Grade 4 infusion-related reactions. Nausea and Vomiting: TRODELVY is emetogenic and can cause severe nausea and vomiting. Nausea occurred in 64% of all patients treated with TRODELVY and Grade 3-4 nausea occurred in 3% of these patients. Vomiting occurred in 35% of patients and Grade 3-4 vomiting occurred in 2% of these patients. Premedicate with a two or three drug combination regimen (e.g., dexamethasone with either a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist or an NK1 receptor antagonist as well as other drugs as indicated) for prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Withhold TRODELVY doses for Grade 3 nausea or Grade 3-4 vomiting and resume with additional supportive measures when resolved to Grade ≤ 1. Additional antiemetics and other supportive measures may also be employed as clinically indicated. All patients should be given take-home medications with clear instructions for prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting. Increased Risk of Adverse Reactions in Patients with Reduced UGT1A1 Activity: Patients homozygous for the uridine diphosphate-glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1)*28 allele are at increased risk for neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, and anemia and may be at increased risk for other adverse reactions with TRODELVY. The incidence of Grade 3-4 neutropenia was 58% in patients homozygous for the UGT1A1*28, 49% in patients heterozygous for the UGT1A1*28 allele, and 43% in patients homozygous for the wild-type allele. The incidence of Grade 3-4 anemia was 21% in patients homozygous for the UGT1A1*28 allele, 10% in patients heterozygous for the UGT1A1*28 allele, and 9% in patients homozygous for the wild-type allele. Closely monitor patients with known reduced UGT1A1 activity for adverse reactions. Withhold or permanently discontinue TRODELVY based on clinical assessment of the onset, duration and severity of the observed adverse reactions in patients with evidence of acute early-onset or unusually severe adverse reactions, which may indicate reduced UGT1A1 function. Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Based on its mechanism of action, TRODELVY can cause teratogenicity and/or embryo-fetal lethality when administered to a pregnant woman. TRODELVY contains a genotoxic component, SN-38, and targets rapidly dividing cells. Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with TRODELVY and for 6 months after the last dose. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with TRODELVY and for 3 months after the last dose. ADVERSE REACTIONS In the pooled safety population, the most common (≥ 25%) adverse reactions including laboratory abnormalities were decreased leukocyte count (84%), decreased neutrophil count (75%), decreased hemoglobin (69%), diarrhea (64%), nausea (64%), decreased lymphocyte count (63%), fatigue (51%), alopecia (45%), constipation (37%), increased glucose (37%), decreased albumin (35%), vomiting (35%), decreased appetite (30%), decreased creatinine clearance (28%), increased alkaline phosphatase (28%), decreased magnesium (27%), decreased potassium (26%), and decreased sodium (26%). In the ASCENT study (locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer), the most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥25%) were fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, alopecia, constipation, vomiting, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (SAR) (>1%) were neutropenia (7%), diarrhea (4%), and pneumonia (3%). SAR were reported in 27% of patients, and 5% discontinued therapy due to adverse reactions. The most common Grade 3-4 lab abnormalities (incidence ≥25%) in the ASCENT study were reduced neutrophils, leukocytes, and lymphocytes. In the TROPiCS-02 study (locally advanced or metastatic HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer), the most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥25%) were diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, alopecia, and constipation. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (SAR) (>1%) were diarrhea (5%), febrile neutropenia (4%), neutropenia (3%), abdominal pain, colitis, neutropenic colitis, pneumonia, and vomiting (each 2%). SAR were reported in 28% of patients, and 6% discontinued therapy due to adverse reactions. The most common Grade 3-4 lab abnormalities (incidence ≥25%) in the TROPiCS-02 study were reduced neutrophils and leukocytes. DRUG INTERACTIONS UGT1A1 Inhibitors: Concomitant administration of TRODELVY with inhibitors of UGT1A1 may increase the incidence of adverse reactions due to potential increase in systemic exposure to SN-38. Avoid administering UGT1A1 inhibitors with TRODELVY. UGT1A1 Inducers: Exposure to SN-38 may be reduced in patients concomitantly receiving UGT1A1 enzyme inducers. Avoid administering UGT1A1 inducers with TRODELVY. Please see full Prescribing Information, including BOXED WARNING. About KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) injection for intravenous use, 100 mg KEYTRUDA is an anti-programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) therapy that works by increasing the ability of the body’s immune system to help detect and fight tumor cells. KEYTRUDA is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, thereby activating T lymphocytes which may affect both tumor cells and healthy cells. Merck has the industry’s largest immuno-oncology clinical research program. There are currently more than 2,800 trials studying KEYTRUDA across a wide variety of cancers and treatment settings. The KEYTRUDA clinical program seeks to understand the role of KEYTRUDA across cancers and the factors that may predict a patient's likelihood of benefitting from treatment with KEYTRUDA, including exploring several different biomarkers. Selected KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) Indications in the U.S. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer KEYTRUDA, in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations. KEYTRUDA, in combination with carboplatin and either paclitaxel or paclitaxel protein-bound, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC. KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with NSCLC expressing PD-L1 [Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) ≥1%] as determined by an FDA-authorized test, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations, and is: Stage III where patients are not candidates for surgical resection or definitive chemoradiation, or metastatic. KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors express PD-L1 (TPS ≥1%) as determined by an FDA-authorized test, with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy. Patients with EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations should have disease progression on FDA-approved therapy for these aberrations prior to receiving KEYTRUDA. KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with resectable (tumors ≥4 cm or node positive) NSCLC in combination with platinum-containing chemotherapy as neoadjuvant treatment, and then continued as a single agent as adjuvant treatment after surgery. KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated as adjuvant treatment following resection and platinum-based chemotherapy for adult patients with Stage IB (T2a ≥4 cm), II, or IIIA NSCLC. See additional selected KEYTRUDA indications in the U.S. after the Selected Important Safety Information. Selected Important Safety Information for KEYTRUDA Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions KEYTRUDA is a monoclonal antibody that belongs to a class of drugs that bind to either the programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) or the programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, thereby removing inhibition of the immune response, potentially breaking peripheral tolerance and inducing immune-mediated adverse reactions. Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue, can affect more than one body system simultaneously, and can occur at any time after starting treatment or after discontinuation of treatment. Important immune-mediated adverse reactions listed here may not include all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions. Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Early identification and management are essential to ensure safe use of anti–PD-1/PD-L1 treatments. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment. For patients with TNBC treated with KEYTRUDA in the neoadjuvant setting, monitor blood cortisol at baseline, prior to surgery, and as clinically indicated. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate. Withhold or permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA depending on severity of the immune-mediated adverse reaction. In general, if KEYTRUDA requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy. Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. The incidence is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3.4% (94/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including fatal (0.1%), Grade 4 (0.3%), Grade 3 (0.9%), and Grade 2 (1.3%) reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 67% (63/94) of patients. Pneumonitis led to permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 1.3% (36) and withholding in 0.9% (26) of patients. All patients who were withheld reinitiated KEYTRUDA after symptom improvement; of these, 23% had recurrence. Pneumonitis resolved in 59% of the 94 patients. Pneumonitis occurred in 8% (31/389) of adult patients with cHL receiving KEYTRUDA as a single agent, including Grades 3-4 in 2.3% of patients. Patients received high-dose corticosteroids for a median duration of 10 days (range: 2 days to 53 months). Pneumonitis rates were similar in patients with and without prior thoracic radiation. Pneumonitis led to discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 5.4% (21) of patients. Of the patients who developed pneumonitis, 42% interrupted KEYTRUDA, 68% discontinued KEYTRUDA, and 77% had resolution. Pneumonitis occurred in 7% (41/580) of adult patients with resected NSCLC who received KEYTRUDA as a single agent for adjuvant treatment of NSCLC, including fatal (0.2%), Grade 4 (0.3%), and Grade 3 (1%) adverse reactions. Patients received high-dose corticosteroids for a median duration of 10 days (range: 1 day to 2.3 months). Pneumonitis led to discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 26 (4.5%) of patients. Of the patients who developed pneumonitis, 54% interrupted KEYTRUDA, 63% discontinued KEYTRUDA, and 71% had resolution. Immune-Mediated Colitis KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may present with diarrhea. Cytomegalovirus infection/reactivation has been reported in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies. Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 1.7% (48/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 4 (

Gilead and Merck Announce Positive Topline Results From Two Phase 3 Studies Evaluating Islatravir/Lenacapavir, an Oral Once-Weekly HIV TreatmentJune 8, 2026 4:35 PM
Business Wire – Novel Investigational Combination Pairs Merck’s Islatravir, a Next-Generation Nucleoside Analog with Distinct Mechanisms of Action, Including Reverse Transcriptase Translocation Inhibition, with Gilead’s Lenacapavir, a First-in-Class Capsid Inhibitor that Disrupts HIV at Multiple Stages of its Lifecycle – – Islatravir/Lenacapavir has the Potential to be the First Approved Long-Acting Oral HIV Treatment Taken Once-Weekly – Gilead Sciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: GILD) and Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced that the primary efficacy endpoint at Week 48 was met in both the Phase 3 ISLEND-1 and ISLEND-2 trials with the investigational oral once-weekly single-tablet HIV treatment regimen of islatravir/lenacapavir. The ISLEND trials are evaluating the efficacy and safety of islatravir 2 mg/lenacapavir 300 mg (ISL/LEN) in people with HIV who are virologically suppressed and switched from BIKTARVY® (bictegravir 50 mg/emtricitabine 200 mg/tenofovir alafenamide 25 mg tablets, B/F/TAF) (ISLEND-1) or standard of care antiretroviral regimens (ISLEND-2). The safety profile of ISL/LEN was generally comparable to the comparator regimens studied in the ISLEND trials, and no new safety concerns were identified. Gilead and Merck plan to file the Phase 3 data from the ISLEND trials with regulatory authorities globally and submit the detailed findings for presentation at a future scientific congress. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260608276598/en/ “Long-acting oral therapies represent a new wave of transformational innovation in HIV drug development, with the potential to reshape the landscape of care,” said Jared Baeten, MD, PhD, Senior Vice President, Clinical Development, Virology Therapeutic Area Head, Gilead Sciences. “Innovative oral HIV treatment options that allow for less frequent dosing may make a meaningful difference in the lives of people living with the virus, potentially offering more flexibility and discretion.” The primary efficacy endpoint of ISLEND-1 and ISLEND-2 was the percentage of participants with HIV-1 RNA levels ≥ 50 copies/mL at Week 48, defined by the FDA snapshot algorithm. In the double-blind ISLEND-1 trial, the once-weekly, single-tablet regimen of ISL/LEN was found to be statistically non-inferior to BIKTARVY. In the open-label ISLEND-2 trial, ISL/LEN was found to be statistically non-inferior to standard of care daily oral antiretroviral therapy regimens. The safety profile of ISL/LEN was generally comparable to BIKTARVY in ISLEND-1 and to standard of care antiretroviral regimens in ISLEND-2. “These results underscore the shared focus and commitment that we and our collaborators at Gilead have on continuing research to help people living with HIV. By advancing this investigational novel once-weekly oral regimen of islatravir and lenacapavir, we aim to bring forward a new long-acting oral option that, if approved, would represent the first of its kind with less frequent dosing and further expand options for people living with HIV,” said Dr. Eliav Barr, Senior Vice President, Head of Global Clinical Development and Chief Medical Officer, Merck Research Laboratories. The combination of islatravir and lenacapavir targets multiple stages of HIV-1 replication, potentially offering people with HIV who are virologically suppressed a novel, long-acting oral single-tablet regimen. The potency and pharmacokinetic profiles of islatravir and lenacapavir enable long-acting dosing as a once-weekly tablet for HIV treatment, if approved. Islatravir and lenacapavir in combination are investigational and not approved for use. There is currently no cure for HIV or AIDS. About ISLEND-1 ISLEND-1 (NCT06630286) is a Gilead-sponsored, multicenter Phase 3 randomized, double-blind, active-controlled trialdesigned to evaluate the safety and efficacy of switching to a once-weekly tablet of islatravir/lenacapavir (ISL/LEN) versus continuing treatment with BIKTARVY (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) in people with virologically suppressed HIV (HIV-1 RNA levels < 50 copies/mL) on BIKTARVY for ≥ 6 months prior to screening. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive initial doses of ISL/LEN on Day 1 and Day 2 followed by once-weekly ISL/LEN from Day 8 to Week 96 plus placebo-to-match BIKTARVY daily, or BIKTARVY daily plus placebo-to-match initial doses of ISL/LEN on Day 1 and Day 2 and placebo-to-match once-weekly ISL/LEN from Day 8 to Week 96. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants with HIV-1 RNA ≥ 50 copies/mL at Week 48, as determined by the US FDA-defined snapshot algorithm. Key secondary endpoints included the proportion of participants with HIV-1 RNA ≥ 50 copies/mL at Week 96, as determined by the US FDA-defined snapshot algorithm; the proportion of participants with virologic suppression (HIV viral load < 50 copies/mL per US FDA Snapshot) at Week 48 and Week 96; change from baseline in CD4 cell count at Week 48 and Week 96; and the proportion of participants treated with ISL/LEN who discontinued treatment due to treatment-emergent adverse events. About ISLEND-2 ISLEND-2 (NCT06630299) is a Gilead-sponsored, multicenter Phase 3 randomized, open-label, active-controlled trialevaluating the safety and efficacy of switching to a once-weekly tablet of ISL/LEN versus continuation of standard of care treatment in people with virologically suppressed HIV (HIV-1 RNA levels < 50 copies/mL) on a stable standard of care antiretroviral regimen for ≥ 6 months prior to screening. A standard of care regimen included two or three antiretroviral medicines, including integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTI), nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), boosted protease inhibitors (PI) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI). Participants either received an initial dose of ISL/LEN followed by once-weekly ISL/LEN from Day 8 to Week 96, or continued their standard of care treatment with two/three antiretroviral medicines up to Week 96. The primary endpoint is the proportion of participants with HIV-1 RNA ≥ 50 copies/mL at Week 48 by FDA-defined Snapshot Algorithm. Key secondary endpoints included the proportion of participants with HIV-1 RNA ≥ 50 copies/mL at Week 96, as determined by the US FDA-defined snapshot algorithm; the proportion of participants with virologic suppression (HIV viral load < 50 copies/mL per US FDA Snapshot) at Week 48 and Week 96; change from baseline in CD4 cell count at Week 48 and Week 96; and the proportion of participants treated with ISL/LEN who discontinued treatment due to treatment-emergent adverse events. About Lenacapavir The multi-stage mechanism of action of lenacapavir is distinguishable from other approved classes of antiretroviral agents. While most antiretrovirals act on one stage of viral replication, lenacapavir is designed to inhibit HIV at multiple stages of its lifecycle and has no known exhibited cross-resistance in vitro to other existing drug classes. Lenacapavir is being evaluated as a long-acting option in multiple ongoing and planned early and late-stage clinical studies in Gilead’s HIV treatment and prevention research program. Lenacapavir is being developed as a foundation for potential future HIV therapies to offer both long-acting oral and injectable options with several dosing frequencies, in combination or as a mono-agent, that help address the individual needs and preferences of people and communities affected by HIV. For an overview of Gilead’s HIV treatment and prevention clinical development program, please click here. About Islatravir (MK-8591) Islatravir (MK-8591) is Merck’s potent, next-generation nucleoside analog that blocks HIV-1 replication by multiple mechanisms including inhibition of reverse transcriptase translocation, resulting in immediate chain termination, and induction of structural changes in the viral DNA (delayed chain termination). Islatravir is anchoring multiple ongoing early and late-stage clinical trials of two-drug regimens in combination with other Merck antiretrovirals for potential treatments for HIV-1. Islatravir is being studied in Phase 3 in combination with Merck’s doravirine (DOR/ISL) as a once-daily pill for treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults with no prior antiviral treatment history and in Phase 2b in combination with Merck’s investigational non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) ulonivirine (MK-8507) as an oral once-weekly treatment for HIV-1. For an overview of Merck’s HIV treatment and prevention clinical development program, please click here. About Gilead HIV For almost 40 years, Gilead has been a leading innovator in the field of HIV, driving advances in treatment, prevention and cure research. Gilead researchers have developed 13 HIV medications, including the first single-tablet regimen to treat HIV, the first antiretroviral for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to help reduce new HIV infections, and the first long-acting injectable HIV prevention medication administered twice-yearly. Our advances in medical research have helped to transform HIV into a treatable, preventable, chronic condition for millions of people. Gilead is committed to continued scientific innovation to provide solutions for the evolving needs of people affected by HIV around the world. Through partnerships, collaborations and charitable giving, the company also aims to improve education, expand access and address barriers to care, with the goal of ending the HIV epidemic worldwide. Gilead has been repeatedly recognized as one of the top two leading philanthropic funders of HIV-related programs in a report released by Funders Concerned About AIDS. Discover more about Gilead’s unique collaborations worldwide and the work to help end the HIV epidemic. About Gilead Sciences Gilead Sciences, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company that has pursued and achieved breakthroughs in medicine for more than three decades, with the goal of creating a healthier world for all people. The company is committed to advancing innovative medicines to prevent and treat life-threatening diseases, including HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, cancer and inflammation. In 2025, Gilead announced a planned $32 billion investment to further strengthen its U.S. footprint to power the next era of discovery, job creation and public health preparedness – while continuing to invest globally to ensure patients everywhere benefit from its scientific innovation. Gilead operates in more than 35 countries worldwide, with headquarters in Foster City, Calif. Merck’s Commitment to HIV For 40 years, Merck has been committed to scientific research and discovery in HIV leading to scientific breakthroughs that have helped change HIV treatment. Our work has helped pioneer the development of new options across multiple drug classes to help those impacted by HIV. Today, we are developing a series of antiviral options designed to help people manage HIV and protect people from HIV. We are researching for real life and want to ensure people are not defined by HIV. Our work focuses on transformational innovations, collaborations with others in the global HIV community, and access initiatives aimed at helping to end the HIV epidemic for everyone. About Merck At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. Gilead Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, including Gilead’s ability to initiate, progress or complete clinical trials or studies within currently anticipated timelines or at all, and the possibility of unfavorable results from ongoing and additional clinical trials or studies, including those involving lenacapavir (such as ISLEND-1 and ISLEND-2); uncertainties relating to regulatory applications and related filing and approval timelines, including potential applications for programs and/or indications currently under evaluation, such as oral once-weekly single-tablet HIV treatment regimen of islatravir/lenacapavir, and the risk that any regulatory approvals, if granted, may be subject to significant limitations on use or subject to withdrawal or other adverse actions by the applicable regulatory authority; the possibility that Gilead may make a strategic decision to discontinue development of these programs and, as a result, these programs may never be successfully commercialized for the indications currently under evaluation; and any assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. These and other risks, uncertainties and factors are described in detail in Gilead’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These risks, uncertainties and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those referred to in the forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties and is cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are based on information currently available to Gilead, and Gilead assumes no obligation and disclaims any intent to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees with respect to pipeline candidates that the candidates will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov). BIKTARVY, Gilead and the Gilead logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. For more information about Gilead, please visit the company’s website at www.gilead.com, follow Gilead on X (@Gilead Sciences) and LinkedIn, or contact Gilead Public Affairs. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260608276598/en/ GILEAD CONTACTS:
Priscilla White, Media
public_affairs@gilead.com Jacquie Ross, Investors
investor_relations@gilead.com MERCK CONTACTS:
Melissa Moody, Media
mediarelations@merck.com Damini Chokshi, Investors
investor_relations@merck.com Original: Gilead and Merck Announce Positive Topline Results From Two Phase 3 Studies Evaluating Islatravir/Lenacapavir, an Oral Once-Weekly HIV Treatment

Tech Sector Pressure Points to Lower Start for Wall Street: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, FuturesJune 5, 2026 9:16 AM
IH Market News U.S. stock futures indicated a weaker opening on Friday, with technology stocks expected to remain under pressure following renewed concerns over valuations and growth expectations in the semiconductor sector. The negative tone was particularly evident in Nasdaq 100 futures, which declined 1.3%, signaling potential weakness among large-cap technology names at the opening bell. Chip Stocks Continue to Weigh on Sentiment Selling pressure in semiconductor stocks remained a key focus after investors reacted negatively to Broadcom’s (NASDAQ:AVGO) latest outlook. Although the company delivered quarterly results ahead of expectations, its guidance failed to satisfy investors accustomed to increasingly ambitious projections tied to artificial intelligence demand. Daniela Hathorn, Senior Market Analyst at Capital.com, said: “The market is no longer asking whether AI demand is strong, that has largely been established.” She added: “Instead, investors are beginning to question how much of that growth is already reflected in valuations.” According to Hathorn, “In that sense, Broadcom’s results may not have been disappointing, but they were perhaps not enough to justify another leg higher immediately after such a powerful rally.” Strong Jobs Data Raises Interest Rate Concerns Futures extended their losses after the release of the latest U.S. employment report, which showed job creation significantly exceeding market expectations in May. The Labor Department reported that nonfarm payrolls increased by 172,000 positions during the month, following an upwardly revised gain of 179,000 jobs in April. Economists had forecast an increase of 85,000 jobs, compared with the originally reported gain of 115,000 in the prior month. The stronger-than-expected labor market data pushed Treasury yields higher as investors reassessed the likelihood that the Federal Reserve could maintain elevated interest rates for longer than previously anticipated. Dow Reaches New Record Despite Tech Weakness Despite technology sector headwinds, U.S. equities finished mostly higher on Thursday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average led the gains, rising 874.86 points, or 1.7%, to close at a record 51,561.93. The S&P 500 advanced 30.63 points, or 0.4%, ending at 7,584.31. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq Composite lagged behind its peers, slipping 23.02 points, or 0.1%, to finish at 26,830.98. UnitedHealth Drives Dow Higher A major contributor to the Dow’s strong performance was UnitedHealth (NYSE:UNH), whose shares jumped 5.2%. The rally followed an upgrade from Bank of America, which raised its recommendation on the health insurer to Buy from Neutral. Other Dow components also posted solid gains, including American Express (NYSE:AXP), Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) and Merck (NYSE:MRK). Broadcom Sell-Off Hits Technology Stocks Technology shares remained under pressure throughout Thursday’s session, largely because of Broadcom’s sharp decline. The semiconductor company fell 12.6% despite reporting fiscal second-quarter earnings that exceeded analyst forecasts. Investors appeared disappointed that Chief Executive Officer Hock Tan did not increase the company’s projection for annual AI-related chip sales, which remains at $100 billion. AJ Bell Head of Markets Dan Coatsworth commented: “Broadcom may have emerged as a key player in the booming AI infrastructure market, with a particular expertise in the custom chips increasingly being used by the likes of Alphabet and Meta.” He added: “However, just like its rival Nvidia, Broadcom is finding that meeting and even slightly beating forecasts is not enough when the market is holding it to such a high standard.” Financial and Healthcare Shares Outperform While technology struggled, several other sectors posted strong gains. Banking stocks rallied sharply, lifting the KBW Bank Index by 3.7% to its highest closing level in nearly four months. Healthcare and pharmaceutical shares also performed strongly, with the NYSE Arca Pharmaceutical Index rising 3.5% and the Dow Jones U.S. Health Care Index advancing 3%. Brokerage firms, biotechnology companies and commercial real estate stocks also finished higher, helping offset weakness in semiconductor and computer hardware shares. Broadcom stock price UnitedHealth Group stock price American Express stock price Goldman Sachs Group stock price Merck stock price Original: Tech Sector Pressure Points to Lower Start for Wall Street: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Futures

Merck to Participate in the Goldman Sachs 47th Annual Global Healthcare ConferenceJune 2, 2026 6:45 AM
Business Wire Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, announced today that Robert M. Davis, chairman and chief executive officer, and Dr. Dean Y. Li, executive vice president and president, Merck Research Laboratories, are scheduled to participate in a fireside chat at the Goldman Sachs 47th Annual Global Healthcare Conference on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 11:20 a.m. ET. Investors, analysts, members of the media and the general public are invited to listen to a live audio webcast of the presentation at this weblink. About Merck
At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA
This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov).  View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260602290094/en/ Media Contacts: John Cummins
john.cummins2@merck.com Michael Levey
michael.levey @Edwin48 Damini Chokshi
(732) 594-1577 Original: Merck to Participate in the Goldman Sachs 47th Annual Global Healthcare Conference

Moderna and Merck Present 5-Year Data for Intismeran Autogene in Combination With KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) in Patients With High-Risk Stage III/IV Melanoma Following Complete Resection at the 2026 ASCO Annual MeetingJune 1, 2026 8:00 AM
ACCESS NewswireAt a median 5-year (60.3 months) planned follow-up of the Phase 2b KEYNOTE-942/mRNA-4157-P201 study, intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA demonstrated a 49% reduction in the risk of recurrence or death and a 59% reduction in the risk of distant metastasis or death compared to KEYTRUDA aloneIntismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA demonstrated an encouraging trend toward overall survival in an exploratory analysis compared to KEYTRUDA alone (HR=0.471; [95% CI, 0.165-1.345])CAMBRIDGE, MA AND RAHWAY, NJ / ACCESS Newswire / June 1, 2026 / Moderna, Inc. (NASDAQ:MRNA) and Merck (NYSE:MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced detailed results from a planned five-year follow-up analysis of the Phase 2b randomized KEYNOTE-942/mRNA-4157-P201 study evaluating intismeran autogene (mRNA-4157 or V940), an investigational mRNA-based individualized neoantigen therapy (INT), in combination with KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab), Merck's anti-PD-1 therapy, in patients with high-risk melanoma (stage III/IV) following complete resection. These data will be presented today at the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting (May 29-June 2) and published simultaneously in ASCO's Journal of Clinical Oncology.With a median follow-up of 60.3 months (range, 50.5-76.4), adjuvant treatment with intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA continued to prolong recurrence-free survival (RFS), the study's primary endpoint, reducing the risk of recurrence or death by 49% (HR=0.51; [95% CI, 0.294-0.887]) compared to KEYTRUDA alone. Intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA also continued to demonstrate a meaningful improvement in distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), a key secondary endpoint of the study, reducing the risk of distant metastasis or death by 59% (HR=0.411; [95% CI, 0.200-0.843]) compared to KEYTRUDA alone. The exploratory endpoint of overall survival (OS) also demonstrated an encouraging trend toward improved OS (HR=0.471; [95% CI, 0.165-1.345]; n=14) with intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA compared to KEYTRUDA alone. Together, these findings indicate a sustained improvement in RFS and DMFS at five years."With each year of continued follow-up of our Phase 2b study, we gain a more complete picture of the durability of intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA. Now, with a median follow-up of five years, the sustained recurrence-free survival and distant metastasis-free survival demonstrate the potential long-term benefit of intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA in melanoma patients at high risk of recurrence," said David Berman, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Development Officer of Moderna. "These findings add to our confidence in the potentially transformative impact of this novel, personalized approach to cancer care made possible by mRNA technology.""The risk of disease recurrence remains high for patients with stage III/IV melanoma following surgery, so we are encouraged by these long-term findings showing that intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA provided sustained and durable reductions in the risk of recurrence," said Dr. Majorie Green, Senior Vice President and Head of Oncology, Global Clinical Development, Merck Research Laboratories. "These data further reinforce the potential of this individualized approach to address critical gaps in the adjuvant setting and reflect our continued commitment to advancing innovative therapies for patients."The safety profile of intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA remained consistent with prior analyses. The most common adverse events attributed to intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA were fatigue (59.6%), injection site pain (59.6%), and chills (51.0%). The majority of the adverse events attributed to intismeran autogene were Grade 1 (31.7%) and Grade 2 (51.9%), with fatigue being the most common Grade 3 event (4.8%) and no Grade 4-5 events. Immune-related adverse events occurred in 45.2% of patients receiving the combination and 44% receiving KEYTRUDA alone. Intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA did not result in potentiation of immune-related AEs.The findings build on the primary analysis and supportive analysis at an approximately three-year follow-up (34.9 months), presented at the 2024 ASCO Annual Meeting, in which intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA resulted in a 49% RFS risk reduction and 62% DMFS risk reduction compared to KEYTUDA alone.Additional subgroup and translational dataData from an exploratory subgroup analysis continued to indicate that improvement in RFS was maintained with intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA across subpopulations, including age, sex, disease state (Stage III/IV), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) status, BRAF status, tumor mutation burden (TMB) or circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) status, compared to KEYTRUDA alone.Intismeran autogene plus KEYTRUDA increased T-cell clonal expansion and promoted the emergence of new T-cell clonotypes compared with KEYTRUDA alone. At long-term follow-up, patients receiving the combination demonstrated an approximately 2-fold higher proportion of novel expanded T-cell clonotypes versus KEYTRUDA monotherapy (0.030 vs 0.016 median summed frequency). Higher magnitude increases of these novel T-cell clones was associated with remaining recurrence-free; recurrence-free patients in the combination arm had approximately twice the number of unique novel expanded clonotypes at long-term follow-up (median number 42 vs 20 in recurrence-free vs recurrence patients, respectively). Additional data presented at ASCO (abstract #9564) found that, in a subset of melanoma patients receiving adjuvant combination therapy, these novel clonotypes were linked to intismeran-encoded neoantigens, supporting intismeran's proposed mechanism of action and association with clinical benefit.[1]Ongoing clinical development programsModerna and Merck have nine total Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials underway investigating intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA across multiple tumor types, including melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), bladder cancer and renal cell carcinoma. This includes the recent initiation of a Phase 3 study of intismeran autogene as a monotherapy and in combination with KEYTRUDA for the treatment of high-risk Stage I NSCLC (INTerpath-014, NCT07513376).The Phase 3 clinical trial for adjuvant melanoma (INTerpath-001, NCT05933577) and a randomized Phase 2 study for adjuvant renal cell carcinoma (INTerpath-004, NCT06307431) are fully enrolled. Two NSCLC Phase 3 studies, evaluating adjuvant treatment in patients with completely resected NSCLC (INTerpath-002, NCT06077760) and evaluating adjuvant treatment for patients with resectable NSCLC after receiving neoadjuvant KEYTRUDA plus platinum-based chemotherapy (INTerpath-009, NCT06623422), are enrolling. Randomized Phase 2 studies for patients with resected muscle invasive bladder cancer (INTerpath-005, NCT06305767) and resected non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (INTerpath-011, NCT06833073) are enrolling, a Phase 2 study of first-line treatment for patients with metastatic melanoma (INTerpath-012, NCT06961006) and a Phase 2 study of first-line treatment for patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC (INTerpath-013, NCT07221474) are also enrolling.About intismeran autogene (mRNA-4157 or V940)Intismeran autogene is a novel investigational messenger RNA (mRNA)-based individualized neoantigen therapy (INT) consisting of a synthetic mRNA coding for up to 34 neoantigens that is designed and produced based on the unique mutational signature of the DNA sequence of the patient's tumor. Upon administration into the body, the algorithmically derived and RNA-encoded neoantigen sequences are endogenously translated and undergo natural cellular antigen processing and presentation, a key step in adaptive immunity. Individualized neoantigen therapies are designed to train and activate an antitumor immune response by generating specific T-cell responses based on the unique mutational signature of a patient's tumor.About KEYNOTE-942/mRNA-4157-P201 (NCT03897881)KEYNOTE-942 is an ongoing randomized, open-label Phase 2b trial that enrolled 157 patients with high-risk stage III/IV melanoma. Following complete surgical resection, patients were assigned 2:1 (stratified by stage) to receive intismeran autogene (1 mg every three weeks for nine doses) and KEYTRUDA (200 mg every three weeks up to 18 cycles [for approximately one year]) versus KEYTRUDA alone for approximately one year until disease recurrence or unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoint is RFS, defined as the time from first dose of KEYTRUDA until the date of first recurrence (local, regional or distant metastasis), a new primary melanoma, or death from any cause in the intention-to-treat population. Secondary endpoints include distant metastasis-free survival and safety, and exploratory endpoints include distribution of TMB expression in baseline tumor samples across study arms and their association with the primary RFS endpoint.Key eligibility criteria for the trial included: patients with resectable cutaneous melanoma metastatic to a lymph node and at high risk of recurrence, patients with complete resection within 13 weeks prior to the first dose of KEYTRUDA, patients were disease free at study entry (after surgery) with no loco-regional relapse or distant metastasis and no clinical evidence of brain metastases, patients had a formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tumor sample available suitable for sequencing, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Performance Status 0 or 1 and patients with normal organ and marrow function reported at screening.About melanomaMelanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells. The rates of melanoma have been rising over the past few decades, with more than 330,000 new cases diagnosed worldwide in 2022. In the U.S., skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed, and melanoma accounts for a large majority of skin cancer deaths. It is estimated there will be about 112,000 new cases of melanoma diagnosed and over 8,500 deaths resulting from the disease in the U.S. in 2026.About KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) injection for intravenous use, 100 mgKEYTRUDA is an anti-programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) therapy that works by increasing the ability of the body's immune system to help detect and fight tumor cells. KEYTRUDA is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, thereby activating T lymphocytes which may affect both tumor cells and healthy cells.Merck has the industry's largest immuno-oncology clinical research program. There are currently more than 2,800 trials studying KEYTRUDA across a wide variety of cancers and treatment settings. The KEYTRUDA clinical program seeks to understand the role of KEYTRUDA across cancers and the factors that may predict a patient's likelihood of benefitting from treatment with KEYTRUDA, including exploring several different biomarkers.Selected KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) Indications in the U.S.MelanomaKEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma.KEYTRUDA is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of adult and pediatric (12 years and older) patients with Stage IIB, IIC, or III melanoma following complete resection.See additional selected KEYTRUDA indications in the U.S. after the Selected Important Safety Information.Selected Important Safety Information for KEYTRUDASevere and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse ReactionsKEYTRUDA is a monoclonal antibody that belongs to a class of drugs that bind to either the programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) or the programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, thereby removing inhibition of the immune response, potentially breaking peripheral tolerance and inducing immune-mediated adverse reactions. Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue, can affect more than one body system simultaneously, and can occur at any time after starting treatment or after discontinuation of treatment. Important immune-mediated adverse reactions listed here may not include all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions.Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Early identification and management are essential to ensure safe use of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 treatments. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment. For patients with TNBC treated with KEYTRUDA in the neoadjuvant setting, monitor blood cortisol at baseline, prior to surgery, and as clinically indicated. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate.Withhold or permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA depending on severity of the immune-mediated adverse reaction. In general, if KEYTRUDA requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy.Immune-Mediated PneumonitisKEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. The incidence is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3.4% (94/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including fatal (0.1%), Grade 4 (0.3%), Grade 3 (0.9%), and Grade 2 (1.3%) reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 67% (63/94) of patients. Pneumonitis led to permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 1.3% (36) and withholding in 0.9% (26) of patients. All patients who were withheld reinitiated KEYTRUDA after symptom improvement; of these, 23% had recurrence. Pneumonitis resolved in 59% of the 94 patients.Pneumonitis occurred in 8% (31/389) of adult patients with cHL receiving KEYTRUDA as a single agent, including Grades 3-4 in 2.3% of patients. Patients received high-dose corticosteroids for a median duration of 10 days (range: 2 days to 53 months). Pneumonitis rates were similar in patients with and without prior thoracic radiation. Pneumonitis led to discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 5.4% (21) of patients. Of the patients who developed pneumonitis, 42% interrupted KEYTRUDA, 68% discontinued KEYTRUDA, and 77% had resolution.Pneumonitis occurred in 7% (41/580) of adult patients with resected NSCLC who received KEYTRUDA as a single agent for adjuvant treatment of NSCLC, including fatal (0.2%), Grade 4 (0.3%), and Grade 3 (1%) adverse reactions. Patients received high-dose corticosteroids for a median duration of 10 days (range: 1 day to 2.3 months). Pneumonitis led to discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 26 (4.5%) of patients. Of the patients who developed pneumonitis, 54% interrupted KEYTRUDA, 63% discontinued KEYTRUDA, and 71% had resolution.Immune-Mediated ColitisKEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may present with diarrhea. Cytomegalovirus infection/reactivation has been reported in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies. Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 1.7% (48/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 4 (

FDA Grants Breakthrough Therapy Designation for Calderasib (MK-1084), an Investigational KRAS G12C Inhibitor, for Certain Patients with Newly Diagnosed Metastatic KRAS G12C-Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)May 29, 2026 6:45 AM
Business Wire First Breakthrough Therapy designation for calderasib, supported by positive data from the Phase 1 KANDLELIT-001 trial Calderasib is an investigational, highly potent and specific next-generation KRAS G12C covalent inhibitor Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, announced that calderasib (MK-1084), an investigational oral specific KRAS G12C inhibitor, in combination with KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab), Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, has been granted Breakthrough Therapy designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the first-line treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with KRAS G12C-mutation and expressing PD-L1 (tumor proportion score [TPS] ≥1%). This is the first Breakthrough Therapy designation for calderasib and was supported by positive data from the Phase 1 KANDLELIT-001 trial. “As our understanding of cancer biology and precision medicine continues to advance, we’re encouraged by the potential of new approaches, like calderasib, to help address the underlying drivers of cancer growth,” said Dr. Shweta Jain, vice president, global clinical development, Merck Research Laboratories. “The Breakthrough Therapy designation for calderasib underscores the promising potential of this medicine and unmet need for certain patients with KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC.” The KRAS G12C mutation is the most frequently observed KRAS mutation in patients, occurring in approximately 14% of patients with NSCLC (adenocarcinoma). The FDA’s Breakthrough Therapy designation is granted to expedite the development and review of medicines that are intended to treat serious or life-threatening conditions. To qualify for this designation, preliminary clinical evidence must indicate that the product may demonstrate substantial improvement on a clinically significant endpoint(s) over available therapies. The benefits of this Breakthrough Therapy designation include more intensive guidance from the FDA on an efficient development program, organizational commitment involving senior managers and experienced review staff, rolling review and potential eligibility for Priority Review. The KANDLELIT clinical development program for calderasib includes five Phase 3 trials across a range of tumor types and stages, including: KANDLELIT-004, evaluating calderasib in combination with KEYTRUDA for patients with newly diagnosed metastatic NSCLC with KRAS G12C-mutation and PD-L1 TPS ≥50%. KANDLELIT-007, evaluating calderasib in combination with KEYTRUDA QLEX (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph) in patients with newly diagnosed advanced or metastatic nonsquamous NSCLC with KRAS G12C-mutation, regardless of PD-L1 expression. KANDLELIT-012, evaluating calderasib in combination with cetuximab and mFOLFOX6 for the first-line treatment of certain patients with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic CRC who have KRAS G12C-mutated tumors. KANDLELIT-013, evaluating calderasib in combination with KEYTRUDA QLEX for certain patients with locally advanced KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC following receipt of either neoadjuvant KEYTRUDA plus chemotherapy or adjuvant chemotherapy. KANDLELIT-015, evaluating calderasib in combination with durvalumab in certain patients with locally advanced, KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC after chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Calderasib is being developed through a collaboration with Taiho Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. and Astex Pharmaceuticals (UK), a wholly owned subsidiary of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. This collaboration was announced in January 2020. About calderasib
Calderasib (MK-1084) is an investigational, highly potent and specific next-generation KRAS G12C covalent inhibitor. Mutations in KRAS are among the most prevalent mutations found in cancer, occurring with high frequency in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), pancreatic, urogenital and colorectal cancers. The KRAS G12C mutation is the most frequently observed KRAS mutation in patients, occurring in approximately 14% of patients with NSCLC (adenocarcinoma). Despite decades of research and recognition of the therapeutic importance of targeting KRAS, the development of small molecule inhibitors targeting KRAS mutations has been challenging. About lung cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. In 2022 alone, there were approximately 2.4 million new cases and 1.8 million deaths from lung cancer globally. Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases. In 2025, the overall five-year survival rate for patients diagnosed with lung cancer was nearly 30% in the United States. Improved survival rates are due, in part, to earlier detection and screening, reduction in smoking, advances in diagnostic and surgical procedures, as well as the introduction of new therapies. Early detection and screening remain an important unmet need, as 43% of lung cancer cases are not found until they are advanced. About KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) injection for intravenous use, 100 mg
KEYTRUDA is an anti-programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) therapy that works by increasing the ability of the body’s immune system to help detect and fight tumor cells. KEYTRUDA is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, thereby activating T lymphocytes which may affect both tumor cells and healthy cells. Merck has the industry’s largest immuno-oncology clinical research program. There are currently more than 2,800 trials studying KEYTRUDA across a wide variety of cancers and treatment settings. The KEYTRUDA clinical program seeks to understand the role of KEYTRUDA across cancers and the factors that may predict a patient's likelihood of benefitting from treatment with KEYTRUDA, including exploring several different biomarkers. About KEYTRUDA QLEX™ (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph) injection for subcutaneous use, 165 mg + 2,000 units/mL
KEYTRUDA QLEX is a fixed-combination drug product of pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa. Pembrolizumab is a programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) blocking antibody and berahyaluronidase alfa enhances dispersion and permeability to enable subcutaneous administration of pembrolizumab. KEYTRUDA QLEX is administered as a subcutaneous injection into the thigh or abdomen, avoiding the 5 cm area around the navel, over one minute every three weeks (2.4 mL) or over two minutes every six weeks (4.8 mL). Selected KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) and KEYTRUDA QLEX™ (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph) Indications in the U.S. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX are each indicated, in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy, for the first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic nonsquamous non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations. KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX are each indicated, in combination with carboplatin and either paclitaxel or paclitaxel protein-bound, for the first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC. KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX, as single agents, are each indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with NSCLC expressing PD-L1 [tumor proportion score (TPS) ≥1%] as determined by an FDA-authorized test, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations, and is: stage III where patients are not candidates for surgical resection or definitive chemoradiation, or metastatic. KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX, as single agents, are each indicated for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors express PD-L1 (TPS ≥1%) as determined by an FDA-authorized test, with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy. Patients with EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations should have disease progression on FDA-approved therapy for these aberrations prior to receiving KEYTRUDA or KEYTRUDA QLEX. KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX are each indicated for the treatment of adult patients with resectable (tumors ≥4 cm or node positive) NSCLC in combination with platinum containing chemotherapy as neoadjuvant treatment, and then continued as a single agent as adjuvant treatment after surgery. KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX, as single agents, are each indicated as adjuvant treatment following resection and platinum-based chemotherapy for adult patients with stage IB (T2a ≥4 cm), II, or IIIA NSCLC. Colorectal Cancer KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX are each indicated for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic MSI-H or dMMR colorectal cancer (CRC) as determined by an FDA-authorized test. See additional selected KEYTRUDA indications in the U.S. after the Selected Important Safety Information. Selected Safety Information for KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX Contraindications KEYTRUDA QLEX is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to berahyaluronidase alfa, hyaluronidase or to any of its excipients. Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX are monoclonal antibodies that belong to a class of drugs that bind to either the programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) or the programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, thereby removing inhibition of the immune response, potentially breaking peripheral tolerance and inducing immune-mediated adverse reactions. Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue, can affect more than one body system simultaneously, and can occur at any time after starting treatment or after discontinuation of treatment. Important immune-mediated adverse reactions listed here may not include all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions. Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Early identification and management are essential to ensure safe use of anti–PD-1/PD-L1 treatments. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment. For patients with TNBC treated with KEYTRUDA or KEYTRUDA QLEX in the neoadjuvant setting, monitor blood cortisol at baseline, prior to surgery, and as clinically indicated. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate. Withhold or permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX depending on severity of the immune-mediated adverse reaction. In general, if KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX require interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy. Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. The incidence is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3.4% (94/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including fatal (0.1%), Grade 4 (0.3%), Grade 3 (0.9%), and Grade 2 (1.3%) reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 67% (63/94) of patients. Pneumonitis led to permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 1.3% (36) and withholding in 0.9% (26) of patients. All patients who were withheld reinitiated KEYTRUDA after symptom improvement; of these, 23% had recurrence. Pneumonitis resolved in 59% of the 94 patients. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 5% (13/251) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA QLEX in combination with chemotherapy, including fatal (0.4%), Grade 3 (2%), and Grade 2 (1.2%) adverse reactions. Pneumonitis occurred in 7% (41/580) of adult patients with resected NSCLC who received KEYTRUDA as a single agent for adjuvant treatment of NSCLC, including fatal (0.2%), Grade 4 (0.3%), and Grade 3 (1%) adverse reactions. Patients received high-dose corticosteroids for a median duration of 10 days (range: 1 day to 2.3 months). Pneumonitis led to discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 26 (4.5%) of patients. Of the patients who developed pneumonitis, 54% interrupted KEYTRUDA, 63% discontinued KEYTRUDA, and 71% had resolution. Immune-Mediated Colitis KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may present with diarrhea. Cytomegalovirus infection/reactivation has been reported in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies. Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 1.7% (48/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 4 (

Merck to Participate in the Jefferies Global Healthcare ConferenceMay 28, 2026 6:45 AM
Business Wire Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, announced today that Dr. Marjorie Green, senior vice president and head of oncology, global clinical development, Merck Research Laboratories, is scheduled to participate in a fireside chat at the Jefferies Global Healthcare Conference on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. ET. Investors, analysts, members of the media and the general public are invited to listen to a live audio webcast of the presentation at this weblink. About Merck
At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA
This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260528272528/en/ Media Contacts: John Cummins
john.cummins2@merck.com Michael Levey
michael.levey @Edwin48 Steven Graziano
(732) 594-1583 Original: Merck to Participate in the Jefferies Global Healthcare Conference

Merck Announces Third-Quarter 2026 DividendMay 26, 2026 1:28 PM
Business Wire Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, announced today that the Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.85 per share of the company’s common stock for the third quarter of 2026. Payment will be made on July 8, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 15, 2026. About Merck At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260526058758/en/ Media Contacts: John Cummins
john.cummins2@merck.com Michael Levey
michael.levey@merck.com Investor Contacts: Peter Dannenbaum
(732) 594-1579 Steven Graziano
(732) 594-1583 Original: Merck Announces Third-Quarter 2026 Dividend

Merck Receives Positive EU CHMP Opinion for KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) Plus Padcev® (enfortumab vedotin-ejfv) as Perioperative Treatment for Adults With Cisplatin-Ineligible Resectable Muscle-Invasive Bladder CancerMay 22, 2026 7:55 AM
Business Wire Opinion granted based on positive event-free survival, overall survival and pathologic complete response rate results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-905 trial If approved, this combination would become the first and only PD-1 inhibitor plus antibody-drug conjugate regimen for this patient population in the European Union Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced the European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) adopted a positive opinion recommending approval of KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab), Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, in combination with Padcev® (enfortumab vedotin-ejfv), an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), as neoadjuvant treatment and then continued after radical cystectomy as adjuvant treatment, for adults with resectable muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) who are ineligible for cisplatin-containing chemotherapy. This recommendation, which also includes KEYTRUDA SC® [known as KEYTRUDA QLEX™ (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph) in the U.S.], will now be reviewed by the European Commission (EC) for marketing authorization in the European Union (EU), Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, and a final decision is expected by the third quarter of 2026. “Patients in Europe with resectable muscle-invasive bladder cancer who are ineligible for cisplatin-containing chemotherapy have limited treatment options and are at high risk for disease recurrence,” said Dr. Marjorie Green, senior vice president and head of oncology, global clinical development, Merck Research Laboratories. “This positive CHMP recommendation brings us closer to a new chapter of patient care – one that could address this significant unmet need by offering a KEYTRUDA-based regimen both before and after surgery, based on the compelling results from KEYNOTE-905.” The recommendation is based on results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-905 trial (also known as EV-303), which was conducted in collaboration with Pfizer and Astellas. In the study, KEYTRUDA plus Padcev, as perioperative treatment, demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in event-free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS) and pathologic complete response (pCR) rate versus surgery alone in patients with MIBC who are not eligible for or declined cisplatin-based chemotherapy. The KEYTRUDA plus Padcev regimen reduced the risk of EFS events by 60% (HR=0.40 [95% CI, 0.28-0.57]; p

Synergis Software lance Adept Cloud, une plateforme de gestion de documents d'ingénierie native du nuage conçue pour les industries à forte intensité d'actifsMay 21, 2026 1:42 PM
PR Newswire (Canada) La plateforme primée Adept, maintenant offerte sous forme de solution SaaS entièrement gérée, avec des capacités d'IA intégréesQUAKERTOWN, Pennsylvanie, 21 mai 2026 /CNW/ - Synergis Software a annoncé la disponibilité générale d'Adept Cloud, une plateforme infonuagique de gestion de documents d'ingénierie SaaS conçue pour les entreprises du secteur manufacturier, des services publics, du pétrole et du gaz, des produits chimiques, des produits pharmaceutiques et de l'exploitation minière, où l'exactitude de la documentation d'ingénierie est une question de sécurité opérationnelle, de conformité réglementaire et de résultats de projet. Adept Cloud offre toutes les capacités de la plateforme primée Adept dans un environnement basé sur un navigateur hébergé, entretenu et mis à jour en continu par Synergis. Aucune infrastructure locale, aucun VPN ni frais généraux de TI n'est requis.« Nous avons créé Adept Cloud parce que nos clients nous ont dit où ils devaient aller, et nous nous sommes engagés à les y conduire. Ce que nous avons construit n'est pas seulement une version nuagique d'Adept. Il s'agit d'une plateforme infonuagique moderne conçue pour la sécurité, la fiabilité et l'extensibilité dont les entreprises à forte intensité d'actifs ont besoin pour la décennie à venir. Adept Cloud est également le lieu où nous continuerons d'innover : l'intelligence artificielle est intégrée, d'autres fonctionnalités suivront. Et au fur et à mesure que cette plateforme évoluera, elle servira également de base aux déploiements sur site, en veillant à ce que chaque client Adept ait accès aux mêmes capacités, quelle que soit la façon dont il choisit de déployer. Voilà ce que signifie atteindre ce jalon pour nous. Il s'agit d'une étape importante pour Synergis, et nos clients obtiennent une plateforme avec laquelle ils peuvent évoluer pour les années à venir. »— Kristen Tomasic, présidente, Synergis SoftwareApprenez-en davantage sur Adept Cloud.Conçu pour les entreprises qui ne peuvent pas se permettre de se tromperDans les secteurs à actifs élevés, la mauvaise révision de document n'est pas seulement un inconvénient : il s'agit d'un risque pour la sécurité, d'un manquement à la conformité, d'un ordre de changement coûteux et d'un retard dans les projets. Adept Cloud est conçu pour des environnements où la précision compte, offrant un accès rapide aux bons documents, une intégration CAO, une protection de la propriété intellectuelle et une traçabilité à chaque décision.« La question que nous entendons le plus souvent des sociétés d'ingénierie était de savoir si un EDMS infonuagique pouvait vraiment gérer la complexité de leurs activités. Les relations CAO, les flux de travail contrôlés, les exigences d'audit, l'échelle. Adept Cloud a été conçu pour répondre à cette question en toute confiance. La réponse est oui. » — Todd Cummings, vice-président, stratégie des produits, Synergis SoftwareUtilisateurs illimités. Aucun coût par siège.Chaque forfait Adept Cloud (Essentials, Professional et Enterprise) comprend un nombre illimité d'utilisateurs. Aucun coût par siège et aucune limite quant aux personnes qui peuvent accéder au système, qu'il s'agisse d'ingénieurs à leur bureau ou d'équipes sur le terrain ou sur le plancher de l'usine.Synergis tiendra un webinaire Adept Cloud pour les clients le 4 juin et un webinaire de présentation Adept Cloud ouvert à toutes les entreprises intéressées le 17 juin.Adept AI : l'intelligence où vivent vos données d'ingénierieAdept AI est conçu pour la plateforme Adept Cloud - des capacités d'intelligence artificielle qui aident les entreprises d'ingénierie à extraire l'information plus rapidement, à accélérer le travail exigeant des documents et à générer davantage de valeur des données d'ingénierie déjà présentes dans leur système.« L'information d'ingénierie est l'un des actifs les plus précieux et sous-utilisés de toute organisation industrielle — contexte critique enfoui dans des dizaines ou des centaines de milliers de documents, largement inaccessibles. Adept AI change cela en mettant l'intelligence au service de la couche plateforme - à l'intérieur du système où vivent déjà les données, avec la gouvernance et la sécurité dont les industries à actifs importants ont besoin. »— Scott Lamond, vice-président, marketing, Synergis SoftwarePremiers pas avec Adept CloudAdept Cloud est disponible dès aujourd'hui. Les nouveaux clients travaillent avec leur gestionnaire de la réussite client dédié via un plan d'intégration qui s'harmonise avec leur Adept Cloud Plan et rationalise le délai de rentabilité. Les clients actuels d'Adept peuvent passer à Adept Cloud grâce à un plan personnalisé conçu pour minimiser les perturbations et maximiser la continuité.Reconnaissance et confiance des clientsSynergis Adept a été nommée meilleure plateforme de gestion des documents d'ingénierie aux Best Software Awards 2026 de G2. La plateforme détient les distinctions G2 pour le meilleur soutien, la meilleure relation et la plus grande adoption par les utilisateurs, et 95 % des avis G2 vérifiés sont évalués à quatre ou cinq étoiles.À propos de Synergis SoftwareSynergis Software est le créateur d'Adept, une plateforme de gestion de documents d'ingénierie de premier plan reconnue par des entreprises mondiales comme Dow, Con Edison, Merck et General Mills. La société a été nommée meilleure plateforme de gestion de documents d'ingénierie par G2 en 2026. Depuis plus de 35 ans, Synergis aide les industries à forte intensité d'actifs, y compris la fabrication, les produits chimiques, les services publics, le pétrole et le gaz, les sciences de la vie et l'exploitation minière, à centraliser, à régir et à exploiter l'information sur l'ingénierie pour accélérer les projets, renforcer la conformité et réduire les risques opérationnels. Adept est offert en tant que plateforme SaaS entièrement gérée et en tant que solution sur site.Pour en savoir plus, visitez SynergisSoftware.com.PERSONNE-RESSOURCE POUR LES MÉDIAS
Scott Lamond
Vice-président, marketing, Synergis Software
scott.lamond@synergis.com   Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2983727/Adept_Cloud_On_Light.jpg
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Synergis Software Launches Adept Cloud, a Cloud-Native Engineering Document Management Platform Built for Asset-Intensive IndustriesMay 21, 2026 6:02 AM
PR Newswire (US) The award-winning Adept platform, now delivered as a fully managed SaaS solution — with AI capabilities built inQUAKERTOWN, Pa., May 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Synergis Software announced the general availability of Adept Cloud, a cloud-native SaaS engineering document management platform built for organizations in manufacturing, utilities, oil and gas, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and mining — where the accuracy of engineering documentation is a matter of operational safety, regulatory compliance, and project outcomes. Adept Cloud delivers the full capabilities of the award-winning Adept platform in a browser-based environment that is hosted, maintained, and continuously updated by Synergis — no local infrastructure, no VPN, and no IT overhead required. "We built Adept Cloud because our customers told us where they needed to go — and we made a commitment to get them there. What we built isn't just a cloud version of Adept. It's a modern, cloud-native platform — architected for the security, reliability, and scalability that asset-intensive organizations require for the decade ahead. Adept Cloud is also where we'll continue to innovate — AI is built in, with more to come. And as this platform evolves, it will serve as the foundation for on-premise deployments as well, ensuring every Adept customer has access to the same capabilities, regardless of how they choose to deploy. That's what reaching this moment means to us — it's a milestone for Synergis, and our customers get a platform they can grow with for years to come."— Kristen Tomasic, President, Synergis SoftwareLearn more about Adept Cloud.Built for the Organizations That Can't Afford to Get It WrongIn asset-intensive industries, the wrong document revision isn't just an inconvenience — it is a safety risk, a compliance failure, an expensive change order, and a project delay. Adept Cloud is built for environments where precision matters — delivering fast access to the right documents, CAD integration, intellectual property protection, and traceability across every decision."The question we heard most from engineering organizations was whether a cloud EDMS could really handle the complexity of what they do. The CAD relationships, the controlled workflows, the audit requirements, the scale. Adept Cloud was built to answer that question with confidence. The answer is yes." — Todd Cummings, Vice President of Product Strategy, Synergis SoftwareUnlimited Users. No Per-Seat Costs.Every Adept Cloud plan — Essentials, Professional, and Enterprise — includes unlimited users. No per-seat costs, and no limits on who can access the system, from engineers at their desks to teams in the field or on the plant floor.Synergis will host an Adept Cloud webinar for customers on June 4, and an Adept Cloud introduction webinar open to all interested organizations on June 17.Adept AI: Intelligence Where Your Engineering Data LivesAdept AI is built for the Adept Cloud platform — artificial intelligence capabilities that help engineering organizations surface information faster, accelerate document-intensive work, and extract more value from the engineering data already in their system."Engineering information is one of the most valuable and underutilized assets in any industrial organization — critical context buried within tens or hundreds of thousands of documents, largely inaccessible. Adept AI changes that by putting intelligence to work at the platform layer — inside the system where the data already lives, with the governance and security that asset-intensive industries require."— Scott Lamond, Vice President of Marketing, Synergis SoftwareGetting Started with Adept CloudAdept Cloud is available today. New customers work with their dedicated customer success manager through an onboarding plan that aligns with their Adept Cloud Plan and streamlines time to value. Existing Adept customers can transition to Adept Cloud through a personalized plan designed to minimize disruption and maximize continuity.Recognition and Customer TrustSynergis Adept was named to G2's 2026 Best Software Awards as the top-ranked engineering document management platform. The platform holds G2 distinctions for Best Support, Best Relationship, and Highest User Adoption. 95% of verified G2 reviews are rated four or five stars.About Synergis SoftwareSynergis Software is the creator of Adept, a leading engineering document management platform trusted by global organizations including Dow, Con Edison, Merck, and General Mills — and named to G2's 2026 Best Software Awards as the top-ranked engineering document management platform. For more than 35 years, Synergis has helped asset-intensive industries — including manufacturing, chemicals, utilities, oil and gas, life sciences, and mining — centralize, govern, and leverage engineering information to accelerate projects, strengthen compliance, and reduce operational risk. Adept is available both as a fully managed SaaS platform and as an on-premise solution.For more information, visit SynergisSoftware.com.MEDIA CONTACT
Scott Lamond
Vice President of Marketing, Synergis Software
scott.lamond@synergis.com   Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2983727/Adept_Cloud_On_Light.jpg
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Synergis Software Launches Adept Cloud, a Cloud-Native Engineering Document Management Platform Built for Asset-Intensive IndustriesMay 20, 2026 11:02 AM
PR Newswire (Canada) The award-winning Adept platform, now delivered as a fully managed SaaS solution — with AI capabilities built inQUAKERTOWN, Pa., May 20, 2026 /CNW/ -- Synergis Software announced the general availability of Adept Cloud, a cloud-native SaaS engineering document management platform built for organizations in manufacturing, utilities, oil and gas, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and mining — where the accuracy of engineering documentation is a matter of operational safety, regulatory compliance, and project outcomes. Adept Cloud delivers the full capabilities of the award-winning Adept platform in a browser-based environment that is hosted, maintained, and continuously updated by Synergis — no local infrastructure, no VPN, and no IT overhead required. Adept Cloud — a fully managed, cloud-native SaaS engineering document management system is now generally available."We built Adept Cloud because our customers told us where they needed to go — and we made a commitment to get them there. What we built isn't just a cloud version of Adept. It's a modern, cloud-native platform — architected for the security, reliability, and scalability that asset-intensive organizations require for the decade ahead. Adept Cloud is also where we'll continue to innovate — AI is built in, with more to come. And as this platform evolves, it will serve as the foundation for on-premise deployments as well, ensuring every Adept customer has access to the same capabilities, regardless of how they choose to deploy. That's what reaching this moment means to us — it's a milestone for Synergis, and our customers get a platform they can grow with for years to come."— Kristen Tomasic, President, Synergis SoftwareLearn more about Adept Cloud.Built for the Organizations That Can't Afford to Get It WrongIn asset-intensive industries, the wrong document revision isn't just an inconvenience — it is a safety risk, a compliance failure, an expensive change order, and a project delay. Adept Cloud is built for environments where precision matters — delivering fast access to the right documents, CAD integration, intellectual property protection, and traceability across every decision."The question we heard most from engineering organizations was whether a cloud EDMS could really handle the complexity of what they do. The CAD relationships, the controlled workflows, the audit requirements, the scale. Adept Cloud was built to answer that question with confidence. The answer is yes." — Todd Cummings, Vice President of Product Strategy, Synergis SoftwareUnlimited Users. No Per-Seat Costs.Every Adept Cloud plan — Essentials, Professional, and Enterprise — includes unlimited users. No per-seat costs, and no limits on who can access the system, from engineers at their desks to teams in the field or on the plant floor.Synergis will host an Adept Cloud webinar for customers on June 4, and an Adept Cloud introduction webinar open to all interested organizations on June 17.Adept AI: Intelligence Where Your Engineering Data LivesAdept AI is built for the Adept Cloud platform — artificial intelligence capabilities that help engineering organizations surface information faster, accelerate document-intensive work, and extract more value from the engineering data already in their system."Engineering information is one of the most valuable and underutilized assets in any industrial organization — critical context buried within tens or hundreds of thousands of documents, largely inaccessible. Adept AI changes that by putting intelligence to work at the platform layer — inside the system where the data already lives, with the governance and security that asset-intensive industries require."— Scott Lamond, Vice President of Marketing, Synergis SoftwareGetting Started with Adept CloudAdept Cloud is available today. New customers work with their dedicated customer success manager through an onboarding plan that aligns with their Adept Cloud Plan and streamlines time to value. Existing Adept customers can transition to Adept Cloud through a personalized plan designed to minimize disruption and maximize continuity.Recognition and Customer TrustSynergis Adept was named to G2's 2026 Best Software Awards as the top-ranked engineering document management platform. The platform holds G2 distinctions for Best Support, Best Relationship, and Highest User Adoption. 95% of verified G2 reviews are rated four or five stars.About Synergis SoftwareSynergis Software is the creator of Adept, a leading engineering document management platform trusted by global organizations including Dow, Con Edison, Merck, and General Mills — and named to G2's 2026 Best Software Awards as the top-ranked engineering document management platform. For more than 35 years, Synergis has helped asset-intensive industries — including manufacturing, chemicals, utilities, oil and gas, life sciences, and mining — centralize, govern, and leverage engineering information to accelerate projects, strengthen compliance, and reduce operational risk. Adept is available both as a fully managed SaaS platform and as an on-premise solution.For more information, visit SynergisSoftware.com.MEDIA CONTACT
Scott Lamond
Vice President of Marketing, Synergis Software
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Merck Announces TroFuse-005 Trial Evaluating Sacituzumab Tirumotecan (Sac-TMT) Met Primary Endpoints of Overall Survival (OS) and Progression-Free Survival (PFS) in Certain Patients With Advanced or Recurrent Endometrial CancerMay 18, 2026 6:45 AM
Business Wire Sac-TMT is the first TROP2 ADC to improve OS and PFS compared to chemotherapy in patients with advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer who have progressed after platinum-based chemotherapy and anti-PD-1/L1 immunotherapy in a global Phase 3 study Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced the pivotal Phase 3 TroFuse-005 trial evaluating sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT), an investigational TROP2-directed antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) being developed in collaboration with Kelun-Biotech, met its primary endpoints of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in certain patients with advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer. TroFuse-005 is the first global Phase 3 trial to demonstrate statistically significant improvement in both OS and PFS compared to chemotherapy for these patients and the first and only ADC to do so for patients with endometrial cancer in this setting. At a pre-specified interim analysis, sac-TMT demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in OS and PFS compared to treatment of physician’s choice (TPC, consisting of doxorubicin or paclitaxel) for patients with endometrial cancer who have previously received platinum-based chemotherapy and anti-PD-1/L1 immunotherapy either together or separately. The study also reached its key secondary endpoint of objective response rate. These data will be presented at an upcoming medical meeting and discussed with regulatory authorities worldwide. The safety profile was consistent with what has been observed in previously reported studies of sac-TMT; no new safety signals were observed. “These results show sac-TMT may be able to address a critical unmet need for certain patients with advanced endometrial cancer, one of the only cancers increasing in both incidence and mortality worldwide,” said Dr. Domenica Lorusso, the study’s global lead investigator, lead investigator for ENGOT and professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Humanitas University and Humanitas San Pio X, Milan. “Despite recent advances, patients whose disease progresses following treatment with platinum and immunotherapy are urgently in need of new options, and these findings show for the first time that a TROP2 ADC may be an effective option in this setting.” “The scale and ambition of our expansive TroFuse program reflects our deep commitment to advancing one of the industry’s leading ADC pipelines to make a difference for more people facing cancer and builds on our legacy of leadership in gynecologic cancer research,” said Dr. Dean Y. Li, president, Merck Research Laboratories. “These findings reinforce our belief that sac-TMT, with its proprietary bifunctional linker designed with the intent to maximize payload delivery to tumors while minimizing impact on healthy cells in the body, has the potential to become a cornerstone in the treatment of certain patients with advanced endometrial cancer. We thank the patients and investigators for participating in our studies as well as our collaborators at Kelun-Biotech for helping us advance this important treatment.” TroFuse-005 also marks the first positive Phase 3 results from Merck’s TroFuse clinical development program for sac-TMT. The program currently consists of 17 ongoing global Phase 3 trials across multiple tumor types, the broadest range of disease and treatment settings compared to any TROP2-directed ADC to date, including 10 Phase 3 trials in women’s cancers. The program is evaluating sac-TMT across a diverse range of tumor types, including endometrial, bladder, breast, cervical, gastric, non-small cell lung and ovarian cancers, and it spans early-to-late-stage disease as both monotherapy and in combination with immunotherapies. This includes the ongoing TroFuse-033 trial in first line mismatch repair proficient endometrial cancer. About TroFuse-005 TroFuse-005 is a randomized, active-controlled, open-label, multicenter, global Phase 3 trial (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06132958) evaluating sac-TMT versus TPC in patients with endometrial carcinoma and carcinosarcoma who have received prior platinum-based chemotherapy and anti-PD-1/anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy either together or separately. The trial enrolled 776 patients who were randomized to receive either sac-TMT or TPC, consisting of doxorubicin or paclitaxel. Sac-TMT (4 mg/kg) was administered on Day 1 of each two-week treatment cycle. Doxorubicin (60 mg/m²) was administered on Day 1 of each three-week treatment cycle and paclitaxel (80 mg/m²) was administered on Days 1, 8 and 15 of each four-week treatment cycle. The study has dual primary endpoints: PFS by blinded independent central review (BICR), defined as the time from randomization to the first documented disease progression or death from any cause, and OS, defined as the time from randomization to death from any cause. A key secondary endpoint is objective response rate, and other secondary endpoints include duration of response, incidence of adverse events, treatment discontinuation due to adverse events and change from baseline in global health status/quality-of-life scores. About sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT) Sac-TMT is an investigational TROP2-directed ADC with a belotecan-derived topoisomerase I inhibitor payload and a bifunctional linker designed with the potential to maximize payload delivery to tumor cells and minimize payload loss while circulating in the body. Sac-TMT is the only TROP2 ADC designed with a focus on both ends of the linker. TROP2 is overexpressed on tumor cells compared to healthy cells in many common cancers, and through the TroFuse clinical development program, Merck is evaluating sac-TMT in 17 ongoing global Phase 3 trials across multiple tumor types, the broadest range of disease and treatment settings compared to any TROP2-directed ADC to date. The TroFuse development program spans early-to-late-stage disease in more than nine disease areas and includes more than 15,000 patients worldwide. Numerous Phase 3 trials are exploring sac-TMT as monotherapy and in combination with immunotherapies, aiming to improve survival and quality of life for patients with advanced and earlier-stage cancers. About endometrial cancer Endometrial cancer (also referred to as endometrial carcinoma) begins in the inner lining of the uterus, which is known as the endometrium, and is the most common type of cancer in the uterus. More than 90% of uterine body cancers occur in the endometrium. In the U.S., it is estimated there will be approximately 68,270 patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer and approximately 14,450 patient deaths from the disease in 2026. Globally, endometrial cancer is the sixth most common cancer in women and the 15th most common cancer overall. Following primary treatment, patients face a risk of their cancer returning, often as distant metastasis, which is associated with poorer outcomes. About Merck’s research in women’s cancers Merck is advancing research aimed at expanding treatment options for certain breast and gynecologic (ovarian, cervical and endometrial) cancers, with a goal of improving outcomes for more patients affected by these diseases. Breast cancer and gynecologic cancers are the first and second most commonly occurring cancer types among women worldwide, respectively, and Merck aims to provide options to patients facing these devastating diseases. With more than 20 clinical trials in nearly 20,000 patients around the world, Merck is driving innovative research to purposefully advance standards of care in women’s cancers. Merck’s research efforts include trials focused on evaluating its medicines in earlier stages, as well as identifying novel mechanisms and new combinations with these treatments. Through our portfolio and pipeline, Merck is working to address the impact of women’s cancers on patients, their families and communities globally. About the Merck and Kelun-Biotech strategic collaboration Sac-TMT was developed by Kelun-Biotech. Kelun-Biotech (6990.HK) is a holding subsidiary of Kelun Pharmaceutical (002422.SZ), which focuses on the R&D, manufacturing, commercialization and global collaboration of innovative biological drugs and small molecule drugs. Under a collaboration agreement, Kelun-Biotech has granted Merck the exclusive rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize sac-TMT in all territories outside of Greater China (which includes Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan). Merck’s focus on cancer Every day, we follow the science as we work to discover innovations that can help patients, no matter what stage of cancer they have. As a leading oncology company, we are pursuing research where scientific opportunity and medical need converge, underpinned by our diverse pipeline of more than 25 novel mechanisms. With one of the largest clinical development programs across more than 30 tumor types, we strive to advance breakthrough science that will shape the future of oncology. By addressing barriers to clinical trial participation, screening and treatment, we work with urgency to reduce disparities and help ensure patients have access to high-quality cancer care. Our unwavering commitment is what will bring us closer to our goal of bringing life to more patients with cancer. For more information, visit https://www.merck.com/research/oncology. About Merck At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees with respect to pipeline candidates that the candidates will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov).  View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260518302676/en/ Media Contacts: Julie Cunningham
julie.cunningham@merck.com John Infanti
john.infanti @Edwin48 Steven Graziano
(732) 594-1583 Original: Merck Announces TroFuse-005 Trial Evaluating Sacituzumab Tirumotecan (Sac-TMT) Met Primary Endpoints of Overall Survival (OS) and Progression-Free Survival (PFS) in Certain Patients With Advanced or Recurrent Endometrial Cancer

Next-Generation GLP-1 Innovation Could Unlock Massive Metabolic Healthcare Market OpportunitiesMay 13, 2026 9:00 AM
InvestorsHub NewsWireNext-Generation GLP-1 Innovation Could Unlock Massive Metabolic Healthcare Market OpportunitiesBioMedWire Editorial Coverage: Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus ("T2DM") rank among the most urgent and costly healthcare problems facing the world today, contributing to surging rates of cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, kidney complications and ballooning healthcare expenses. What once represented a specialized class of diabetes treatments has grown into one of the most consequential therapeutic categories in modern medicine, with GLP-1 receptor agonists now fundamentally restructuring how obesity, metabolic disease and potentially even neurodegeneration are treated. Operating in this environment is SureNano Science Ltd. (CSE: SURE) (OTCQB: SURNF) (Profile), which through its subsidiary GlucaPharm Inc. is developing a distinct next-generation GLP-1 platform built around GEP-44, a novel triple agonist peptide engineered to improve efficacy, tolerability, and delivery flexibility within one of the most commercially dynamic pharmaceutical markets in history. SureNano is one of the emerging microcap companies active in the GLP-1 space, operating alongside established leaders including Merck & Co. Inc. (NYSE: MRK), AbbVie Inc. (NYSE: ABBV), Viking Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: VKTX) and Altimmune Inc. (NASDAQ: ALT).SureNano Science is developing GEP-44 as a patented next-generation metabolic therapy designed to address the limitations of first-generation GLP-1 drugs.The commercial potential tied to GLP-1 therapies is expanding quickly, with the global GLP-1 market forecast to potentially reach $190 billion by 2035.SureNano Science is also eyeing differentiated drug-delivery technologies designed to improve patient accessibility and long-term adherence.Preclinical data from SureNano Science suggest that GEP-44 may offer substantive differentiation relative to earlier-generation GLP therapies.Beyond its primary GLP-1 metabolic platform, SureNano Science is also evaluating early-stage opportunities that could expand the long-term scope of its therapeutic and delivery technology portfolio.Click here to view the custom infographic of the SureNano Science editorial. Rewriting the Rules of Metabolic MedicineThe global obesity crisis shows no sign of plateauing. According to the World Health Organization ("WHO"), a reported one billion people globally are currently living with obesity, while type 2 diabetes rates continue to climb across both high-income and developing economies. The WHO further notes that obesity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and T2DM, while further research has linked obesity to chronic kidney disease and rising healthcare expenditures, placing substantial and growing pressure on health systems around the world.GLP-1 receptor agonists have rapidly risen to become one of the defining breakthroughs in metabolic medicine. Originally introduced to manage blood glucose levels in diabetes patients, these drugs are now recognized for their capacity to drive meaningful weight reduction and deliver broad improvements in metabolic health. Market leaders Novo Nordisk A/S and Eli Lilly and Company have come to dominate the space through their blockbuster injectable franchises, including Ozempic(R), Wegovy(R), Mounjaro(R) and Zepbound(R).Commercial momentum in this space is increasing. JPMorgan Chase & Co. forecasts that the general obesity drug market could reach $200 billion by 2030 as global adoption expands and indications stretch beyond diabetes and weight management. Additional industry projections suggest GLP-1 therapies are on track to become one of the most commercially successful drug categories ever, with annual sales projections of $150 billion or more by the end of the decade.The industry is already pivoting toward the next generation of incretin therapies, with a focus on improved efficacy, tolerability and patient convenience. Needle-free, including oral, formulas, expanded indications and combination metabolic approaches have emerged as major priorities across the sector. SureNano Science is positioning itself in this scenario as a nimble participant pursuing differentiated innovation through GEP-44, a patented triple agonist peptide licensed from Syracuse University and designed to advance through the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") regulatory route.A Next-Gen Candidate Built for Better OutcomesSureNano Science is developing GEP-44 as a patented next-generation metabolic therapy designed to address the limitations of first-generation GLP-1 drugs, positioning this up-and-coming microcap as a small but strategically focused company moving through the FDA process. Unlike traditional GLP-1 agonists, which act on a single receptor pathway, GEP-44 functions as a triple agonist targeting GLP-1 alongside peptide YY receptors Y1 and Y2. This combined mechanism is designed to simultaneously regulate glucose metabolism, reduce appetite and improve tolerability within a single therapeutic molecule.The compound originated at Syracuse University and has generated promising results in preclinical settings. According to research, GEP-44 produced meaningful reductions in food intake and decreased body weight while also enhancing glycemic control in preclinical models. In addition, the compound did not trigger the nausea, malaise and gastrointestinal adverse effects commonly seen with many first-generation GLP-1 therapies, a distinction that could become increasingly significant as patient populations and adherence demands grow.The broader pharmaceutical industry is investing aggressively in incretin therapies that can address tolerability and long-term adherence challenges. PwC reports that the next segment of the obesity drug market will most likely be characterized by expanded indications, more patient-friendly delivery formats and therapies with stronger adherence profiles. This lends itself to a supportive environment for companies pursuing second-generation GLP innovation.Despite being smaller than more-established pharmaceutical players, SureNano Science operates with a lean development model and cost-efficient structure built for flexibility and development speed. The company is involved in substantial research in Australia, where government incentive programs may provide research tax credits of up to 43.5% on qualifying expenditures. Should GEP-44 continue producing favorable results through clinical development, the company could emerge as an attractive acquisition, licensing or partnership candidate within the fast-expanding GLP ecosystem.Market Scale and the Commercial Case for GLP-1 InnovationThe commercial potential tied to GLP-1 therapies is expanding quickly. According to Morgan Stanley, the global GLP-1 market could reach $190 billion by 2035 as patient adoption broadens and therapeutic applications extend into new disease areas. Industry forecasts from BCC Research also forecast significant long-term growth, with the GLP-1 analogue market estimated to reach $268.4 billion by 2030.Patient uptake estimates that between 25 and 30 million Americans could be using GLP-1 therapies by 2030, up from approximately 10 million in 2026. Increasing insurance coverage along with obesity prevalence and growing physician familiarity are all driving the rapid mainstreaming of these treatments.At the same time, the competitive setting is shifting toward the next wave of products. IQVIA calls 2026 the "year of the orals," with oral GLP-1 formulations projected to meaningfully enhance accessibility, compliance and long-term maintenance therapy adoption. The anticipated off-patent expansion of semaglutide across major global markets is also expected to intensify competition while broadening overall patient access.As GEP-44 advances through IND-enabling studies and moves toward eventual phase 1 trials, SureNano Science stands as one of a small number of microcap public companies offering direct exposure to the expanding GLP-1 market. This positioning may represent a meaningful valuation gap relative to large-cap pharmaceutical incumbents and late-stage obesity therapy developers, particularly if the company achieves key clinical and regulatory milestones.Delivery Innovation as a Second Engine of ValueAlongside its core therapeutic development efforts, SureNano Science is also eyeing differentiated drug-delivery technologies designed to improve patient accessibility and long-term adherence. The company's platform strategy includes evaluating oral, sublingual and intranasal delivery approaches that could eventually reduce reliance on injectable administration.Convenience and adherence have emerged as increasingly important competitive dimensions within the GLP-1 market. The dominant therapies today are injection-based, creating barriers for some patients due to administration complexity, refrigeration requirements and long-term compliance challenges. Noninvasive and oral alternatives are widely regarded as representing one of the most significant near-term commercial opportunities in obesity and diabetes treatment.Industry analysts increasingly view delivery innovation as potentially as consequential as efficacy improvements. IQVIA notes that oral obesity therapies could substantially boost long-term maintenance adoption while simplifying supply chains by removing cold-chain requirements, factors that could meaningfully expand patient access in international markets.By combining therapeutic development with delivery innovation, SureNano Science is working to build a vertically integrated metabolic disease platform rather than advancing a single injectable drug candidate. This broader strategy may generate additional long-term optionality and commercial flexibility as the obesity treatment market continues to evolve.Preclinical Data Point to a Meaningful Competitive EdgePreclinical data from SureNano Science suggest that GEP-44 may offer substantive differentiation relative to earlier-generation GLP therapies. According to the company, the compound demonstrated approximately 15% weight loss in preclinical testing, compared with roughly 9% observed with liraglutide, while food intake reductions reached approximately 39% versus around 20% for the comparator.In addition to weight reduction, GEP-44 produced improvements in glycemic control while reportedly avoiding nausea and vomiting during testing. Gastrointestinal side effects remain among the most frequently cited challenges associated with currently marketed GLP-1 therapies and represent a significant driver of discontinuation. Improved tolerability could therefore become a meaningful competitive advantage if these preclinical findings are validated in human studies.The pharmaceutical industry continues to pour resources into next-generation obesity therapies capable of delivering better outcomes and patient experiences. The Pharma Letter reports that obesity drug pipelines are increasingly oriented toward differentiation through combination receptor pathways, improved tolerability profiles, and expanded delivery options as the competitive field intensifies.While GEP-44 remains in preclinical development, these early findings place SureNano Science within a strategically important segment of the obesity treatment landscape. If subsequent studies continue to support these results, the company could establish itself as a distinctive participant in one of the largest and most rapidly expanding therapeutic categories in contemporary healthcare.Exploring Broader Platform Opportunities for Long-Term GrowthBeyond its primary GLP-1 metabolic platform, SureNano Science is also evaluating early-stage opportunities that could expand the long-term scope of its therapeutic and delivery technology portfolio. These discussions include nonbinding opportunities involving ibogaine-related intellectual property concentrated on formulation and delivery technologies.While still exploratory and not considered a core asset at this stage, the initiative reflects a broader strategic aim of building diversified platform capabilities across multiple high-growth therapeutic areas. Scientific and investor interest in ibogaine and related psychedelic-derived therapeutics has grown considerably in recent years, as researchers examine their potential applications in addiction treatment, mental health conditions, and neurological disorders.CNN recently reported on the growing scientific and regulatory attention being directed at ibogaine research, particularly in areas related to opioid addiction and treatment-resistant mental health conditions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has also signaled increasing openness to accelerating development pathways for treatments targeting serious mental illnesses and areas of significant unmet medical need.SureNano's interest in formulation and delivery technologies within these emerging areas fits naturally with the company's broader emphasis on drug-delivery innovation and platform versatility. Rather than treating ibogaine-related opportunities as a standalone commercial priority, the company appears to be assessing how specialized delivery technologies and intellectual property could complement its existing capabilities in metabolic therapeutics and nontraditional administration. This kind of optionality may provide incremental long-term strategic value if the regulatory landscape surrounding psychedelic-based therapies continues to evolve.These initiatives remain early stage and are subject to meaningful scientific, clinical and regulatory uncertainty. However, by selectively evaluating expansion opportunities alongside its primary GLP-1 development program, SureNano Science is aligning itself with a broader trend toward diversified therapeutic platforms capable of competing across multiple large and evolving healthcare markets. As pharmaceutical innovation increasingly converges around metabolic health, neuroscience, and advanced delivery technologies, strategic flexibility may prove to be a growing differentiator for emerging biotechnology companies.Advances Continue Across the GLP-1 LandscapeMomentum across the GLP-1 and metabolic disease sector continues to accelerate as leading biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies expand development programs targeting obesity, diabetes, liver disease and broader cardiometabolic conditions. Recent news from the GLP-1 space highlights continued investment in next-generation therapies, late-stage clinical development, strategic partnerships and regulatory progress as the rapidly evolving space remains one of the most closely watched areas in healthcare and biotechnology.Merck & Co. Inc. (NYSE: MRK) expanded into the GLP-1 and obesity-treatment market through an exclusive global licensing agreement with Hansoh Pharma for an investigational oral GLP-1 receptor agonist. Merck stated that the candidate is being developed for cardiometabolic diseases and described the agreement as part of the company's strategy to strengthen its presence in metabolic disorders. The company noted that it will receive exclusive rights outside China to develop, manufacture and commercialize the therapy, reflecting a growing industry focus on oral GLP-1 treatments for obesity and related conditions.AbbVie Inc. (NYSE: ABBV) announced positive topline results from a phase 1 multiple ascending dose study evaluating ABBV-295, its long-acting amylin analog being developed for obesity and metabolic disease treatment. AbbVie reported that ABBV-295 demonstrated "clinically meaningful" body weight reduction ranging from approximately 7.75% to 9.79% over the treatment period, while also showing a "favorable tolerability profile" with no serious adverse events reported. The company emphasized that the data support continued advancement of its metabolic disease pipeline amid increasing interest in next-generation obesity therapies that may complement or compete with GLP-1 drugs.Viking Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: VKTX) reported completion of enrollment in its phase 3 VANQUISH-2 trial evaluating VK2735, its dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist candidate for obesity treatment. Viking stated that the study is assessing subcutaneous VK2735 in adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes, while concurrent phase 3 development is also ongoing in broader obesity populations. The company noted that VK2735 is being developed in both oral and injectable formulations for metabolic disorders, underscoring its position in the rapidly expanding GLP-1 obesity-treatment landscape.Altimmune Inc. (NASDAQ: ALT) announced that pemvidutide received FDA Breakthrough Therapy designation for the treatment of MASH, further advancing development of the company's GLP-1/glucagon dual receptor agonist platform. Altimmune stated that pemvidutide has demonstrated improvements in liver fat reduction, weight loss and fibrosis-related measures, while the company plans to initiate a Phase 3 trial evaluating multiple doses over a 52-week treatment period. The announcement reinforces Altimmune's ongoing efforts to position pemvidutide within the broader GLP-1 and metabolic disease sector spanning obesity, liver disease and related cardiometabolic conditions.Collectively, these developments underscore the growing importance of GLP-1-related therapies as companies compete to address some of the world's largest and fastest-growing chronic health challenges. With ongoing advances in oral formulations, combination therapies and expanded metabolic disease applications, the sector continues to attract significant scientific, clinical and investor attention while reshaping the future landscape of obesity and cardiometabolic treatment.For further information about SureNano Science Ltd., visit the SureNano Science profile.About BioMedWireBioMedWire ("BMW") is a specialized communications platform with a focus on the latest developments in the Biotechnology (BioTech), Biomedical Sciences (BioMed) and Life Sciences sectors. 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Merck Highlights New Long-Term Data and Advancements Across Broad Oncology Portfolio and Pipeline Research at ASCO 2026May 12, 2026 6:45 AM
Business Wire Five-year follow-up data from KEYNOTE-942 underscore the continued potential of intismeran autogene (mRNA-4157 or V940) in combination with KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) for patients with resected high-risk melanoma Results from the final analysis of KEYNOTE-522, evaluating KEYTRUDA in combination with chemotherapy, demonstrate continued survival benefit for patients with high-risk early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) New data for sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT), an investigational TROP2-directed antibody-drug conjugate, add to ongoing research of novel treatment approaches for patients with non-small cell lung cancer Data from ASCENT-04/KEYNOTE-D19, evaluating KEYTRUDA plus Trodelvy® (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) for patients with metastatic TNBC, will be featured in the official ASCO 2026 Press Program Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced new research from more than 100 abstracts across over 25 types of cancer from the company’s comprehensive oncology portfolio and pipeline will be presented at the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting (May 29-June 2). The data reinforce the long-term impact of KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab), Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, and Merck’s rapidly advancing pipeline across multiple tumor types and stages of disease, highlighting the company’s leadership in oncology and commitment to advancing innovative oncology research. “During ASCO, we will present data that showcase the strong momentum in our oncology pipeline, including long-term data for intismeran autogene, our investigational individualized neoantigen therapy (INT),” said Dr. Marjorie Green, senior vice president and head of oncology global clinical development, Merck Research Laboratories. “We look forward to sharing new research for our oncology medicines and novel treatment approaches, such as our INT and antibody-drug conjugates, which may help address significant unmet medical needs for patients living with cancer.” Key data from Merck’s portfolio and pipeline to be presented: Five-year follow-up data from the Phase 2b KEYNOTE-942 trial evaluating intismeran autogene in combination with KEYTRUDA for patients with high-risk melanoma following complete resection (Abstract #9500, Oral abstract session: Melanoma/skin cancers).1 Final analysis results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-522 trial evaluating KEYTRUDA in combination with chemotherapy as pre-operative treatment and then continuing as a single agent after surgery for the treatment of patients with high-risk early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) (Abstract #507, Oral abstract session: Breast cancer – local/regional/adjuvant). Data from the Phase 3 OptiTROP-Lung05 trial conducted in China, led by Kelun-Biotech, evaluating sac-TMT plus KEYTRUDA in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (Abstract #8506, Oral abstract session: Lung cancer – non-small cell metastatic).2 Progression-free survival data from the Phase 3 ASCENT-04/KEYNOTE-D19 study evaluating KEYTRUDA plus Trodelvy (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) in previously untreated PD-L1-positive metastatic TNBC ??(Abstract #LBA1000, Oral abstract session: Breast cancer – metastatic).?3 Merck investor event Merck will hold an Oncology Investor Event to coincide with the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting on Monday, June 1, 2026, 6 p.m. CT, during which senior management will provide an update on the company’s oncology strategy and program. The event will take place in Chicago, Ill., and will be accessible via webcast. Investors, analysts, members of the media and the general public are invited to listen to a webcast of the presentation via this weblink. All participants may join the call by dialing (800) 369-2154 (U.S. and Canada Toll-Free) or (517) 308-9422 and using the access code 8711041. Details on abstracts listed above and additional key abstracts for Merck Breast cancer Neoadjuvant pembrolizumab or placebo plus chemotherapy followed by adjuvant pembrolizumab or placebo for high-risk early-stage TNBC: Final analysis results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-522 study. P. Schmid. Abstract #507, Oral abstract session:
Breast cancer – local/regional/adjuvant Progression-free survival after next line of treatment (PFS2) and subsequent therapies (subs tx) in the ASCENT-04 study of participants (pts) with previously untreated PD-L1+ metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC) treated with sacituzumab govitecan (SG) plus pembrolizumab (pembro) vs chemotherapy (chemo) plus pembro. K. Kalinsky.?3 Abstract #LBA1000, Oral abstract session:
Breast cancer – metastatic Gastrointestinal cancers   KEYNOTE-811: 6-year median follow-up of pembrolizumab plus trastuzumab and chemotherapy for previously untreated advanced HER2-positive gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. A. Kawazoe. Abstract #4040, Poster session:
Gastrointestinal cancer – gastroesophageal, pancreatic and hepatobiliary Genitourinary cancers Enfortumab vedotin plus pembrolizumab (EV+P) vs chemotherapy for previously untreated locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC): 3.5-year follow-up and response analyses from the Phase 3 EV-302 study. T. Powles.4 Abstract #4507, Oral abstract session:
Genitourinary cancer – kidney and bladder Extended follow up (6-years) of the Phase 2 LITESPARK-004 study of belzutifan in participants with von Hippel-Lindau disease-associated neoplasms. R. Srinivasan. Abstract #4550, Poster session:
Genitourinary cancer – kidney and bladder Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) with neoadjuvant and adjuvant (neoadj-adj) enfortumab vedotin (EV) plus pembrolizumab (pembro) in participants (pts) with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) who are cisplatin ineligible: Phase 3 KEYNOTE-905 study. P. O’Donnell.4 Abstract #4510, Clinical science symposium:
New approaches to curing bladder and kidney cancer Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) with pembrolizumab or observation for high-risk muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma after surgery: Results from the AMBASSADOR randomized trial (Alliance A031501). R. Chen.?5 Abstract #4513, Oral abstract session:
Genitourinary cancer – kidney and bladder Belzutifan in docetaxel-pretreated metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC): Phase 1b/2 KEYNOTE-365 cohort J. J. Arranz.? Abstract #5058, Poster session:
Genitourinary cancer – prostate, testicular and penile Gynecologic cancers   Updated overall survival analysis and examination of subsequent therapy in endometrial cancer (EC) patients (pts) treated with pembrolizumab plus carboplatin/paclitaxel (CP) as compared to CP plus placebo (PBO) in the NRG-GY018 trial. R. Eskander.6 Abstract #5502, Oral abstract session:
Gynecologic cancer Exposure-response (E-R) analyses of efficacy and safety with raludotatug deruxtecan (R-DXd), a CDH6-directed antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), to inform dose selection for Phase (Ph) 3 development in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC). F. Hurtado.7 Abstract #5570, Poster session:
Gynecologic cancer Lung cancer Sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT) plus pembrolizumab (P) versus pembrolizumab(P) as first-line treatment for PD-L1-positive advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Results from the randomized Phase 3 OptiTROP-Lung05 study. C. Zhou.?2 Abstract #8506, Oral abstract session:
Lung cancer – non-small cell metastatic Melanoma Individualized neoantigen therapy intismeran autogene (intismeran) plus pembrolizumab (pembro) in resected melanoma: 5-year update of the KEYNOTE-942 study. M. Carlino.?1 Abstract #9500, Oral abstract session:
Melanoma/skin cancers Biomarkers Development and evaluation of a novel digital pathology image analysis pipeline for prediction of clinical outcomes with the TROP2-directed antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). S. Tolaney.? Abstract #1026, Poster session:
Breast cancer – metastatic 1 In collaboration with Moderna
2 Led by Kelun-Biotech, conducted in China
3 In collaboration with Gilead. Trodelvy is a registered trademark of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies.
4 In collaboration with Astellas/Pfizer
5 Sponsored by U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI)/led by Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology
6 Sponsored by U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI)/led by NRG Oncology
7 In collaboration with Daiichi Sankyo About intismeran autogene (mRNA-4157 or V940) Intismeran autogene is a novel investigational messenger RNA (mRNA)-based individualized neoantigen therapy (INT) consisting of a synthetic mRNA coding for up to 34 neoantigens that is designed and produced based on the unique mutational signature of the DNA sequence of the patient’s tumor. Upon administration into the body, the algorithmically derived and RNA-encoded neoantigen sequences are endogenously translated and undergo natural cellular antigen processing and presentation, a key step in adaptive immunity. Individualized neoantigen therapies are designed to train and activate an antitumor immune response by generating specific T-cell responses based on the unique mutational signature of a patient’s tumor. About sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT) Sac-TMT is an investigational TROP2-directed ADC with a belotecan-derived topoisomerase I inhibitor payload and a bifunctional linker designed with the potential to maximize payload delivery to tumor cells and minimize payload loss while circulating in the body. Sac-TMT is the only TROP2 ADC designed with a focus on both ends of the linker. TROP2 is overexpressed on tumor cells compared to healthy cells in many common cancers, and through the TroFuse clinical development program, Merck is evaluating sac-TMT in 17 ongoing global Phase 3 trials across multiple tumor types, the broadest range of disease and treatment settings compared to any TROP2-directed ADC to date. The TroFuse development program spans early-to-late-stage disease in more than nine disease areas and includes more than 15,000 patients worldwide. Numerous Phase 3 trials are exploring sac-TMT as monotherapy and in combination with immunotherapies, aiming to improve survival and quality of life for patients with advanced and earlier-stage cancers. About raludotatug deruxtecan (R-DXd) Raludotatug deruxtecan is an investigational, potential first-in-class CDH6 directed ADC. Designed using Daiichi Sankyo’s proprietary DXd ADC Technology, raludotatug deruxtecan is comprised of a humanized anti-CDH6 IgG1 monoclonal antibody attached to a number of topoisomerase I inhibitor payloads (an exatecan derivative, DXd) via tetrapeptide-based cleavable linkers. About KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) injection for intravenous use, 100 mg KEYTRUDA is an anti-programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) therapy that works by increasing the ability of the body’s immune system to help detect and fight tumor cells. KEYTRUDA is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, thereby activating T lymphocytes which may affect both tumor cells and healthy cells. Merck has the industry’s largest immuno-oncology clinical research program. There are currently more than 2,800 trials studying KEYTRUDA across a wide variety of cancers and treatment settings. The KEYTRUDA clinical program seeks to understand the role of KEYTRUDA across cancers and the factors that may predict a patient's likelihood of benefitting from treatment with KEYTRUDA, including exploring several different biomarkers. Selected KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) Indications in the U.S. Melanoma KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma. KEYTRUDA is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of adult and pediatric (12 years and older) patients with Stage IIB, IIC, or III melanoma following complete resection. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer KEYTRUDA, in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations. KEYTRUDA, in combination with carboplatin and either paclitaxel or paclitaxel protein-bound, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC. KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with NSCLC expressing PD-L1 [Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) ≥1%] as determined by an FDA-authorized test, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations, and is: Stage III where patients are not candidates for surgical resection or definitive chemoradiation, or metastatic. KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors express PD-L1 (TPS ≥1%) as determined by an FDA-authorized test, with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy. Patients with EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations should have disease progression on FDA-approved therapy for these aberrations prior to receiving KEYTRUDA. KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with resectable (tumors ≥4 cm or node positive) NSCLC in combination with platinum-containing chemotherapy as neoadjuvant treatment, and then continued as a single agent as adjuvant treatment after surgery. KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated as adjuvant treatment following resection and platinum-based chemotherapy for adult patients with Stage IB (T2a ≥4 cm), II, or IIIA NSCLC. Urothelial Cancer KEYTRUDA, in combination with enfortumab vedotin, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer. KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma: who are not eligible for any platinum-containing chemotherapy, or who have disease progression during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy or within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy. KEYTRUDA, in combination with enfortumab vedotin, as neoadjuvant treatment and then continued after cystectomy as adjuvant treatment, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) who are ineligible for cisplatin-containing chemotherapy. KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of patients with Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG)-unresponsive, high-risk, non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) with carcinoma in situ (CIS) with or without papillary tumors who are ineligible for or have elected not to undergo cystectomy. Gastric Cancer KEYTRUDA, in combination with trastuzumab, fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adults with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS ≥1) as determined by an FDA-authorized test. KEYTRUDA, in combination with fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adults with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic HER2-negative gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS ≥ 1) as determined by an FDA-authorized test. Renal Cell Carcinoma KEYTRUDA, in combination with axitinib, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). KEYTRUDA is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of patients with RCC at intermediate-high or high risk of recurrence following nephrectomy, or following nephrectomy and resection of metastatic lesions. Endometrial Carcinoma KEYTRUDA, in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel, followed by KEYTRUDA as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with primary advanced or recurrent endometrial carcinoma. KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with advanced endometrial carcinoma that is MSI-H or dMMR, as determined by an FDA-authorized test, who have disease progression following prior systemic therapy in any setting and are not candidates for curative surgery or radiation. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with high-risk early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) in combination with chemotherapy as neoadjuvant treatment, and then continued as a single agent as adjuvant treatment after surgery. KEYTRUDA, in combination with chemotherapy, is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally recurrent unresectable or metastatic TNBC whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS ≥10) as determined by an FDA-authorized test. Ovarian Cancer KEYTRUDA, in combination with paclitaxel, with or without bevacizumab, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal carcinoma whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS ≥1) as determined by an FDA-authorized test, and who have received one or two prior systemic treatment regimens. See additional selected KEYTRUDA indications in the U.S. after the Selected Important Safety Information. Selected Important Safety Information for KEYTRUDA Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions KEYTRUDA is a monoclonal antibody that belongs to a class of drugs that bind to either the programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) or the programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, thereby removing inhibition of the immune response, potentially breaking peripheral tolerance and inducing immune-mediated adverse reactions. Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue, can affect more than one body system simultaneously, and can occur at any time after starting treatment or after discontinuation of treatment. Important immune-mediated adverse reactions listed here may not include all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions. Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Early identification and management are essential to ensure safe use of anti–PD-1/PD-L1 treatments. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment. For patients with TNBC treated with KEYTRUDA in the neoadjuvant setting, monitor blood cortisol at baseline, prior to surgery, and as clinically indicated. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate. Withhold or permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA depending on severity of the immune-mediated adverse reaction. In general, if KEYTRUDA requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy. Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. The incidence is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3.4% (94/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including fatal (0.1%), Grade 4 (0.3%), Grade 3 (0.9%), and Grade 2 (1.3%) reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 67% (63/94) of patients. Pneumonitis led to permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 1.3% (36) and withholding in 0.9% (26) of patients. All patients who were withheld reinitiated KEYTRUDA after symptom improvement; of these, 23% had recurrence. Pneumonitis resolved in 59% of the 94 patients. Pneumonitis occurred in 8% (31/389) of adult patients with cHL receiving KEYTRUDA as a single agent, including Grades 3-4 in 2.3% of patients. Patients received high-dose corticosteroids for a median duration of 10 days (range: 2 days to 53 months). Pneumonitis rates were similar in patients with and without prior thoracic radiation. Pneumonitis led to discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 5.4% (21) of patients. Of the patients who developed pneumonitis, 42% interrupted KEYTRUDA, 68% discontinued KEYTRUDA, and 77% had resolution. Pneumonitis occurred in 7% (41/580) of adult patients with resected NSCLC who received KEYTRUDA as a single agent for adjuvant treatment of NSCLC, including fatal (0.2%), Grade 4 (0.3%), and Grade 3 (1%) adverse reactions. Patients received high-dose corticosteroids for a median duration of 10 days (range: 1 day to 2.3 months). Pneumonitis led to discontinuation of KEYTRUDA in 26 (4.5%) of patients. Of the patients who developed pneumonitis, 54% interrupted KEYTRUDA, 63% discontinued KEYTRUDA, and 71% had resolution. Immune-Mediated Colitis KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may present with diarrhea. Cytomegalovirus infection/reactivation has been reported in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies. Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 1.7% (48/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 4 (

Merck Scientists Publish Landmark Paper on Novel Method for Large-Scale Biocatalytic Synthesis of Investigational Oral PCSK9 Inhibitor, Enlicitide DecanoateMay 7, 2026 2:05 PM
Business Wire Publication in Science magazine outlines blueprint for the scalable synthesis of complex orally available macrocyclic peptides Enlicitide, a novel macrocyclic peptide, has the potential to be the first approved oral PCSK9 inhibitor Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, announced today the publication of work describing the large-scale synthesis of enlicitide decanoate, the company’s investigational oral PCSK9 inhibitor, using a tailored suite of enzymes in the latest issue of the peer reviewed journal Science. “Macrocyclic peptides have the potential to unlock new opportunities to develop oral treatment options for challenging therapeutic targets and broaden patient access,” said Dr. Dean Y. Li, president, Merck Research Laboratories. “The scalable production process for enlicitide described in this publication showcases Merck’s scientific capabilities and underscores our sustained commitment to helping address the global cardiovascular epidemic.” In this publication, Merck scientists detail the biocatalytic assembly of enlicitide using a suite of enzymes that catalyze selective peptide fragment formation, coupling, and macrocyclization. Together with efficient purifications using crystallization, this strategy enabled the manufacture of a product that would not be possible with traditional synthetic methods. The method described offers a sustainable blueprint for the scalable development of complex macrocyclic peptide therapeutics, environmental advantages and manufacturing efficiencies that support efforts to expand patient access. About biocatalysis Biocatalysis describes the process of using enzymes to conduct chemical synthesis. Biocatalysis offers environmental sustainability advantages over chemical catalyst methods. For more than 25 years Merck has invested in the development of biocatalysis including the generation of novel enzymes for the synthesis and novel manufacturing of pharmaceutical products at scale. About macrocyclic peptides Over a decade ago, an interdisciplinary team of Merck scientists were challenged to create a type of medicine that may provide the potency and selectivity of a biologic therapy but in the form of a pill. Macrocyclic peptides are intricate ring-shaped molecules with the ability to target and disrupt protein-protein interactions while retaining oral bioavailability. For more information regarding our approach to macrocyclic peptides, visit merck.com About enlicitide and PCSK9 Enlicitide has the potential to be the first approved oral PCSK9 inhibitor. It is designed to lower LDL-C via the same biological mechanism as currently approved monoclonal antibody, injectable PCSK9 inhibitors but in a daily pill form. Enlicitide is a novel macrocyclic peptide candidate that binds to PCSK9 and inhibits the interaction of PCSK9 with LDL receptors. PCSK9 plays a key role in cholesterol homeostasis by regulating levels of the LDL receptor, which is responsible for the uptake of cholesterol into cells. Inhibition of PCSK9 is designed to prevent the interaction of PCSK9 with LDL receptors. This results in greater numbers of LDL receptors available on the cell surface to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood. About the CV epidemic and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease The silent CV epidemic is the leading cause of deaths globally, contributing to the majority of heart attacks and strokes, and deaths related to CV continue to rise. ASCVD accounts for 85% of CV deaths. It is caused by the buildup of plaque within the arteries, leading to narrowed or blocked blood vessels that can result in serious CV events such as heart attacks and strokes as well as coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease and cerebrovascular disease. About Merck At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees with respect to pipeline candidates that the candidates will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260507354410/en/ Media Contacts:
Julie Cunningham
(617) 519-6264 Kimberly Petrillo
(267) 742-2813 Investor Contacts:
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(732) 594-1579 Ayn Wisler
(917) 691-6218 Original: Merck Scientists Publish Landmark Paper on Novel Method for Large-Scale Biocatalytic Synthesis of Investigational Oral PCSK9 Inhibitor, Enlicitide Decanoate

Merck tops Q1 estimates on strong oncology demand; shares riseApril 30, 2026 8:41 AM
IH Market News
Shares of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) climbed more than 4% in premarket trading on Thursday after the company reported first-quarter results that exceeded analyst expectations, supported by solid performance in oncology and animal health.The drugmaker posted an adjusted loss per share of $1.28, beating the consensus estimate of a $1.48 loss. Revenue came in at $16.29 billion, above the $15.89 billion forecast and marking a 5% increase year-over-year, or 3% excluding foreign exchange effects, compared with $15.53 billion in the same quarter last year.Both adjusted and GAAP results included a $3.62 per share charge related to the acquisition of Cidara Therapeutics.Sales of KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX reached $8.03 billion, rising 12% from a year earlier, or 8% on a constant currency basis. Growth was driven by stronger global demand in metastatic treatments and continued expansion in earlier-stage indications.WINREVAIR sales jumped 88% to $525 million, reflecting ongoing uptake in the U.S. and initial international launches. The Animal Health division also delivered strong results, with sales increasing 13% to $1.79 billion.“We are moving with speed to transform our portfolio to one with a diversified set of growth drivers across a broad set of therapeutic areas,” said Robert M. Davis, chairman and chief executive officer.For full-year 2026, Merck raised and tightened its revenue outlook to a range of $65.8 billion to $67.0 billion, compared with the previous $65.5 billion to $67.0 billion.The company also increased its adjusted EPS guidance to between $5.04 and $5.16, up from the prior range of $5.00 to $5.15. This outlook includes the $3.62 per share impact from the Cidara acquisition but excludes the planned acquisition of Terns Pharmaceuticals, expected to close in May, which would result in an additional one-time charge of about $2.35 per share.The midpoint of $5.10 for adjusted EPS reflects the company’s updated expectations for the year.Merck stock price

Original: Merck tops Q1 estimates on strong oncology demand; shares rise

Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA Announces First-Quarter 2026 Financial Results; Highlights Significant Regulatory Approvals and Clinical MilestonesApril 30, 2026 6:30 AM
Business Wire
Sales Growth Driven by Continued Strength in Oncology and Animal Health, Plus Increasing Contributions From Launches



Total Worldwide Sales Were $16.3 Billion (5% Growth; 3% Growth ex-FX)


KEYTRUDA/KEYTRUDA QLEX1 Sales Were $8.0 Billion (12% Growth; 8% Growth ex-FX); Includes KEYTRUDA QLEX Sales of $128 Million



WINREVAIR Sales Were $525 Million (88% Growth; 87% Growth ex-FX)



Animal Health Sales Were $1.8 Billion (13% Growth; 6% Growth ex-FX)






GAAP Loss per Share Was $1.72; Non-GAAP Loss per Share Was $1.28; GAAP and Non-GAAP Loss per Share Include a Charge of $3.62 per Share for the Acquisition of Cidara



Presented New Data From Cardio-Pulmonary Pipeline at ACC.26, Including Positive Results From Phase 3 CORALreef AddOn Trial



Received U.S. FDA Approval for IDVYNSO, a Once-Daily, Oral Treatment for Certain Adults With Virologically Suppressed HIV-1



Achieved Multiple Significant Regulatory and Clinical Milestones Across Oncology Pipeline



Announced Agreement To Acquire Terns Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Expand Hematology Pipeline With TERN-701, a Novel Candidate for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia; Transaction Expected To Close in May



Full-Year 2026 Financial Outlook


Narrows and Raises the Midpoint of Worldwide Sales Range; Now Expects Sales To Be Between $65.8 Billion and $67.0 Billion



Narrows and Raises Expected Non-GAAP EPS Range To Be Between $5.04 and $5.16



Outlook Does Not Reflect Any Impact From Proposed Acquisition of Terns Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Which Is Expected To Close in May and Result in a One-Time Charge of Approximately $5.8 Billion or Approximately $2.35 per Share






Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, today announced financial results for the first quarter of 2026.


“We are moving with speed to transform our portfolio to one with a diversified set of growth drivers across a broad set of therapeutic areas,” said Robert M. Davis, chairman and chief executive officer. “During the first quarter, we continued to strengthen our pipeline with science-led business development, including our planned acquisition of Terns. We also achieved several important milestones, such as the FDA approval of IDVYNSO – which marks a new chapter in our longstanding commitment to people living with HIV. I am pleased with our progress and excited for what’s ahead, as we enter a particularly robust period of Phase 3 data readouts and deliver on the promise of our pipeline for patients.”


Financial Summary




$ in millions, except EPS amounts






First Quarter








2026 






2025 






Change 






Change 

Ex- 

Exchange 








Sales






$16,286 






$15,529 






5% 






3% 








GAAP net (loss) income2






(4,240) 






5,079 






N/M 






N/M 








Non-GAAP net (loss) income that excludes certain items2,3*






(3,156) 






5,611 






N/M 






N/M 








GAAP EPS






(1.72) 






2.01 






N/M 






N/M 








Non-GAAP EPS that excludes certain items3*






(1.28) 






2.22 






N/M 






N/M 








*Refer to table on page 7.








N/M - Not meaningful.







For the first quarter of 2026, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) loss / earnings per share (EPS) assuming dilution was a loss per share of $1.72 and non-GAAP loss per share was $1.28. Both the GAAP and non-GAAP loss per share were due to a charge for the acquisition of Cidara Therapeutics, Inc. (Cidara) of $3.62 per share.


Non-GAAP EPS excludes acquisition- and divestiture-related costs and costs related to restructuring programs, as well as income and losses from investments in equity securities.


First-Quarter Sales Performance

The following table reflects sales of the Company’s top products and significant performance drivers.




 






First Quarter








$ in millions






2026 






2025 






Change 






Change 

Ex- 

Exchange 






Commentary








Total Sales






$16,286 






$15,529 






5% 






3% 






 








Pharmaceutical






14,349 






13,638 






5% 






2% 






Increase primarily driven by growth in oncology as well as cardiometabolic and respiratory, partially offset by declines in vaccines, diabetes and infectious diseases.








KEYTRUDA/ KEYTRUDA QLEX






8,034 






7,205 






12% 






8% 






Growth primarily driven by higher global demand in metastatic indications including urothelial cancer, as well as strong global uptake in earlier-stage indications, including triple-negative breast cancer, cervical cancer and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Sales growth benefited from the timing of wholesaler purchases in the U.S. Sales of KEYTRUDA QLEX were $128 million.








GARDASIL/

GARDASIL 9






1,069 






1,327 






-19% 






-22% 






Decline primarily due to lower demand in China as well as lower sales in Japan following the national catch-up immunization program. Decline also reflects lower sales in the U.S. primarily due to unfavorable public-sector purchasing patterns, partially offset by higher net pricing.








JANUVIA/JANUMET






574 






796 






-28% 






-29% 






Decline primarily due to lower demand and net pricing in the U.S., as well as lower demand in China and most other international markets due to generic competition.








PROQUAD, M-M-R II and VARIVAX






538 






539 






0% 






-2% 






Sales were flat, primarily driven by unfavorable private sector purchasing patterns for M-M-R II and lower demand for M-M-R II and VARIVAX in the U.S., offset by higher PROQUAD sales in the U.S. due to borrowing of doses in 2025 from a U.S. government stockpile, which lowered sales in that period.








WINREVAIR






525 






280 






88% 






87% 






Growth primarily reflects continued uptake in the U.S. and early launch uptake in certain international markets, particularly in Japan and Europe.








BRIDION






472 






441 






7% 






7% 






Growth primarily due to higher demand in the U.S., partially offset by lower demand in most international markets due to ongoing generic competition.








Lynparza*






341 






312 






9% 






6% 






Growth primarily due to higher demand in the U.S. and many international markets.








PREVYMIS






272 






208 






31% 






26% 






Increase primarily due to higher demand in the U.S. and certain European markets, reflecting in part the launch of new indications.








Lenvima*






256 






258 






-1% 






-2% 






Relatively flat compared with prior year.








ROTATEQ






206 






228 






-10% 






-11% 






Decrease primarily driven by lower demand in China.








VAXNEUVANCE






202 






230 






-12% 






-16% 






Decrease primarily driven by lower demand in the U.S. and most international markets due to competitive pressure.








WELIREG






199 






137 






45% 






43% 






Growth primarily driven by higher demand in the U.S. and continued launch uptake in several international markets, particularly in Japan and certain European markets.








CAPVAXIVE






142 






107 






33% 






31% 






Increase primarily driven by launch uptake in certain European markets and continued uptake in the U.S. U.S. sales growth was partially offset by a reduction in wholesaler inventory.








OHTUVAYRE






131 






- 






- 






- 






Product obtained as part of the Company’s October 2025 acquisition of Verona Pharma plc (Verona Pharma).








LAGEVRIO






28 






102 






-73% 






-73% 






Decline largely due to lower demand in Japan and the U.S.








Animal Health






1,791 






1,588 






13% 






6% 






Growth attributable to performance in both Livestock and Companion Animal product portfolios.








Livestock






1,064 






924 






15% 






8%






Growth primarily driven by higher demand for ruminant and poultry products as well as price.








Companion Animal






727 






664 






9% 






4% 






Growth from new product launches and price was partially offset by lower demand for other products in portfolio, reflecting a reduction in veterinary visits. Sales of BRAVECTO line of products were $379 million and $327 million in current and prior-year quarters, respectively, which represents an increase of 16%, or 9% excluding impact of foreign exchange.








Other Revenues**






146 






303 






-52% 






4% 






Decline primarily due to unfavorable impact of revenue-hedging activities and lower revenue from third-party manufacturing arrangements, partially offset by higher milestones received for out-licensing arrangements and higher royalty income.








*Alliance revenue for this product represents the Company’s share of profits, which are product sales net of cost of sales and commercialization costs.








**Other revenues are comprised primarily of revenues from third-party manufacturing arrangements and miscellaneous corporate revenues, including revenue-hedging activities.







In addition, Koselugo alliance revenue was $161 million for the first quarter of 2026 compared with $44 million for the first quarter of 2025. The increase was due to a $150 million payment received in the first quarter of 2026 in connection with an amendment to the collaboration agreement with AstraZeneca in 2025, which (subject to an annual election by AstraZeneca) discontinued the provisions whereby the Company shared revenue and costs with AstraZeneca, and revised the payment structure.


First-Quarter Expense and Related Information

The table below presents selected expense information.




$ in millions






GAAP 






Acquisition- 

and 

Divestiture- 

Related Costs4 






Restructuring 

Costs 






(Income) 

Loss From 

Investments 

in Equity 

Securities 






Non- 

GAAP3 








First Quarter 2026













Cost of sales






$4,195 






$1,014 






$237 






$ - 






$2,944 








Selling, general and administrative






2,700 






32 






- 






- 






2,668 








Research and development






12,592 






- 






34 






- 






12,558 








Restructuring costs






195 






- 






195 






- 






- 








Other (income) expense, net






138 






- 






- 






(180) 






318 








 






 






 






 






 






 








First Quarter 2025







 






 






 






 








Cost of sales






$3,419 






$620 






$36 






$- 






$2,763 








Selling, general and administrative






2,552 






23 






- 






- 






2,529 








Research and development






3,621 






7 






- 






- 






3,614 








Restructuring costs






69 






- 






69 






- 






- 








Other (income) expense, net






(35) 






(3) 






- 






(107) 






75 







GAAP Expense, EPS and Related Information

Gross margin was 74.2% for the first quarter of 2026 compared with 78.0% for the first quarter of 2025. The decrease was primarily due to higher amortization of intangible assets, higher restructuring costs, the recognition of inventory fair value step-up related to the 2025 Verona Pharma acquisition and the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange, partially offset by favorable product mix.


Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses were $2.7 billion in the first quarter of 2026, an increase of 6% compared with the first quarter of 2025. The increase was primarily due to higher administrative costs and the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange.


Research and development (R&D) expenses were $12.6 billion in the first quarter of 2026 compared with $3.6 billion in the first quarter of 2025. The increase was primarily due to a $9.0 billion charge for the acquisition of Cidara, higher clinical development spending, the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange and restructuring costs, partially offset by a $200 million reduction in R&D expenses as part of the funding agreement with Blackstone Life Sciences (Blackstone) and a $100 million charge in the first quarter of 2025 for the achievement of a developmental milestone related to the 2024 acquisition of EyeBiotech Limited (EyeBio).


Other (income) expense, net, was $138 million of expense in the first quarter of 2026 compared with $35 million of income in the first quarter of 2025. The unfavorability was primarily due to higher net interest expense, partially offset by higher net income from investments in equity securities.


The income tax provision for the first quarter of 2026 was $709 million on a pretax loss of $3.5 billion, resulting in an effective income tax rate of (20.1)%. This effective income tax rate includes a 33.1 percentage point unfavorable impact of the charge for the acquisition of Cidara, for which no tax benefit was recorded.


GAAP loss per share was $1.72 for the first quarter of 2026 compared with earnings per share of $2.01 for the first quarter of 2025, primarily driven by a $3.62 per share charge included in the first quarter of 2026 for the acquisition of Cidara.


Non-GAAP Expense, EPS and Related Information

Non-GAAP gross margin was 81.9% for the first quarter of 2026 compared with 82.2% for the first quarter of 2025. The decrease was primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange, partially offset by favorable product mix.


Non-GAAP SG&A expenses were $2.7 billion in the first quarter of 2026, an increase of 5% compared with the first quarter of 2025. The increase was primarily due to higher administrative costs and the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange.


Non-GAAP R&D expenses were $12.6 billion in the first quarter of 2026 compared with $3.6 billion in the first quarter of 2025. The increase was primarily due to a $9.0 billion charge for the acquisition of Cidara, higher clinical development spending and the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange, partially offset by a $200 million reduction in R&D expenses as part of the funding agreement with Blackstone and a $100 million charge in the first quarter of 2025 for the achievement of a developmental milestone related to the 2024 acquisition of EyeBio.


Non-GAAP other (income) expense, net, was $318 million of expense in the first quarter of 2026 compared with $75 million of expense in the first quarter of 2025. The unfavorability was primarily due to higher net interest expense.


The non-GAAP income tax provision for the first quarter of 2026 was $957 million on a pretax loss of $2.2 billion, resulting in a non-GAAP effective income tax rate of (43.5)%. This effective income tax rate includes a 57.6 percentage point unfavorable impact of the charge for the acquisition of Cidara, for which no tax benefit was recorded.


Non-GAAP loss per share was $1.28 for the first quarter of 2026 compared with earnings per share of $2.22 for the first quarter of 2025, primarily driven by a $3.62 per share charge included in the first quarter of 2026 for the acquisition of Cidara.


A reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP net (loss) income and EPS is provided in the table that follows.





First Quarter








$ in millions, except EPS amounts






2026 






2025 








EPS







 








GAAP EPS






$(1.72) 






$2.01 








Difference






0.44 






0.21 








Non-GAAP EPS that excludes items listed below3






$(1.28) 






$2.22 








 






 






 








Net (Loss) Income







 








GAAP net (loss) income2






$(4,240) 






$5,079 








Difference






1,084 






532 








Non-GAAP net (loss) income that excludes items listed below2,3






$(3,156) 






$5,611 








 






 






 








Excluded Items:







 








Acquisition- and divestiture-related costs4






$1,046 






$647 








Restructuring costs






466 






105 








Income from investments in equity securities






(180) 






(107) 








Increase to net loss / decrease to net income before taxes






1,332 






645 








Estimated income tax benefit5






(248) 






(113) 








Increase to net loss / decrease to net income






$1,084 






$532 







Pipeline and Portfolio Highlights

In the first quarter, the Company continued to advance its pipeline, achieving significant regulatory and clinical milestones across a broad range of therapeutic areas.



Oncology:


U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX plus paclitaxel, with or without bevacizumab, for the treatment of certain adults with PD-L1+ (combined positive score [CPS] ≥1) platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, based on Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B96 trial.


The European Commission (EC) also approved this KEYTRUDA regimen for this population.






In April, FDA approved a label update for KEYTRUDA QLEX based on results from Phase 2 MK-3475A-F11 trial, which evaluated patient-reported preference for subcutaneous administration of KEYTRUDA QLEX over intravenous administration of KEYTRUDA in participants with multiple tumor types.



In April, FDA granted priority review for ifinatamab deruxtecan (I-DXd) for certain adults with previously treated extensive-stage small cell lung cancer, based on Phase 2 Ideate-Lung01 trial. I-DXd is part of the Company’s collaboration with Daiichi Sankyo.


FDA set Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) date of Oct. 10, 2026.






FDA accepted for priority review supplemental applications for WELIREG in combination with KEYTRUDA or KEYTRUDA QLEX for the adjuvant treatment of certain patients with RCC, based on the Phase 3 LITESPARK-022 trial.


FDA set PDUFA date of June 19, 2026.






FDA accepted supplemental applications for WELIREG plus Lenvima in certain previously treated patients with advanced RCC, based on the Phase 3 LITESPARK-011 trial. Lenvima is being developed as part of a collaboration with Eisai Co., Ltd (Eisai).


FDA set PDUFA date of Oct. 4, 2026.






Announced positive results from Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B15 trial (also known as EV-304) demonstrating KEYTRUDA plus Padcev reduced the risk of event-free survival (EFS) events by 47% and reduced the risk of death by 35% in cisplatin-eligible patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) when given before and after surgery.


KEYNOTE-B15 is the sixth study demonstrating overall survival (OS) with a KEYTRUDA-based regimen in an earlier-stage cancer.






In April, FDA granted priority review for KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX, each with Padcev, for cisplatin-eligible patients with MIBC, based on the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B15 trial.


FDA set PDUFA date of Aug. 17, 2026.






In a pre-specified interim analysis of the Phase 3 LITESPARK-012 study, compared to KEYTRUDA plus Lenvima, the triplet combination therapy of KEYTRUDA plus Lenvima plus WELIREG, as well as the combination of MK-1308A (an investigational fixed dose coformulation of KEYTRUDA and the anti-CTLA-4 antibody quavonlimab) plus Lenvima, did not show a statistically significant improvement in the primary endpoints of progression-free survival and OS in patients with advanced clear cell RCC.



In the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-975 study, compared to placebo plus definitive chemoradiotherapy (dCRT), KEYTRUDA plus dCRT did not show a statistically significant improvement in the primary endpoint of EFS in certain patients with locally advanced unresectable esophageal carcinoma.



In a prespecified interim analysis of the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-866 study, compared to perioperative placebo plus neoadjuvant chemotherapy, perioperative KEYTRUDA plus neoadjuvant chemotherapy did not show a statistically significant improvement in the primary endpoint of EFS in patients with cisplatin-eligible MIBC who underwent radical cystectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection.







Vaccines and Infectious Diseases:


In April, FDA approved once-daily IDVYNSO, an oral, two-drug, single-tablet regimen of doravirine/islatravir (DOR/ISL) for the treatment of certain adults with virologically suppressed HIV-1, based on Phase 3 MK-8591A-051 and MK-8591A-052 trials. IDVYNSO was also approved in Japan for these patients in March.



Presented data from three Phase 3 trials evaluating DOR/ISL at the 33rd Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI), including:


Results from Phase 3 MK-8591A-053 trial demonstrated that DOR/ISL is the first two-drug regimen that does not include an integrase strand transfer inhibitor to demonstrate non-inferiority and similar safety profile at Week 48 versus bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide6 [(50 mg/200 mg/25 mg) (BIC/FTC/TAF)] in adults living with HIV-1 who had not previously received antiretroviral treatment.



Results from the Phase 3 MK-8591A-052 and MK-8591A-051 trials demonstrated that DOR/ISL maintained virologic suppression at Week 96 in adults with virologically suppressed HIV-1 who switched from other antiretroviral therapies, including BIC/FTC/TAF.






In April, EC approved ENFLONSIA for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease in newborns and infants during their first RSV season, based on Phase 2b/3 CLEVER and Phase 3 SMART trials.



Announced positive second RSV season results from Phase 3 SMART trial evaluating the safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics of ENFLONSIA in infants and children at increased risk for severe RSV disease over two RSV seasons.



European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) adopted positive opinion for an expanded indication for CAPVAXIVE for active immunization against invasive pneumococcal disease and pneumococcal pneumonia in certain children and adolescents at increased risk of pneumococcal disease.







Cardiometabolic and Respiratory:


Presented new data at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session and Expo (ACC.26) including:


Positive results from Phase 3 CORALreef AddOn trial demonstrated significantly greater LDL-C reductions at eight weeks compared to guideline-recommended oral non-statin therapies when added to background statins. This is the third positive Phase 3 study of enlicitide.



Positive data from Phase 2 CADENCE trial provided definitive proof-of-concept for WINREVAIR in adults with the syndrome of combined post- and precapillary pulmonary hypertension and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (CpcPH-HFpEF). Totality of evidence supports advancing development of WINREVAIR for this distinct patient population into a registrational Phase 3 study.










Animal Health:


FDA approved NUMELVI for dogs, the first and only second-generation Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor indicated for the control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis in dogs 6 months of age and older.







Business Development:


Announced an agreement to acquire Terns Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Terns) through a subsidiary.


Expands hematology pipeline with the addition of TERN-701, an investigational oral allosteric BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor currently in Phase 1/2 development for certain patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).



Transaction expected to close in May.









Notable recent news releases on the Company’s pipeline and portfolio are provided in the table that follows. Visit the News Releases section of the Company’s website to read the releases.*




Oncology






KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX, Plus Paclitaxel ± Bevacizumab, FDA Approved for Certain Adults With PD-L1+ (CPS ≥1) Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Carcinoma as Second- or Third-Line Treatment; Based on Results From Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B96 Trial








EC Approved KEYTRUDA Plus Paclitaxel ± Bevacizumab for Treatment of Adults With PD-L1 (CPS ≥1) Platinum-Resistant Recurrent Ovarian Carcinoma Who Have Received One or Two Prior Systemic Treatment Regimens; Based on Results From Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B96 Trial 








I-DXd Granted Priority Review in U.S. for Adult Patients With Previously Treated Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer Who Experienced Disease Progression on or After Platinum-Based Chemotherapy; Based on Results From Phase 2 Ideate-Lung01 Trial; FDA Set PDUFA Date of Oct. 10, 2026








FDA Granted Priority Review for KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX, Each With Padcev, for Cisplatin-Eligible Patients With MIBC; Based on Results From Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B15 Trial; FDA Set PDUFA Date of Aug. 17, 2026








KEYTRUDA Plus Padcev Reduced Risk of EFS Events by 47% and Risk of Death by 35% for Cisplatin-Eligible Patients With MIBC When Given Before and After Surgery; Results From Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B15 Trial








KEYTRUDA Plus Paclitaxel With or Without Bevacizumab Significantly Improved Key Secondary Endpoint of OS Versus Paclitaxel With or Without Bevacizumab in Patients With Platinum-Resistant Recurrent Ovarian Cancer; Results From Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B96 Trial








KEYTRUDA Plus WELIREG Given as Adjuvant Therapy Reduced Risk of Disease Recurrence or Death by 28% Compared to KEYTRUDA Monotherapy in Certain Patients With Earlier-Stage RCC; Results From Phase 3 LITESPARK-022 Trial; FDA Set PDUFA Date of June 19, 2026 for WELIREG in combination with KEYTRUDA or KEYTRUDA QLEX








WELIREG Plus Lenvima Reduced the Risk of Disease Progression or Death by 30% Compared to Cabozantinib in Certain Previously Treated Patients With RCC; Results From Phase 3 LITESPARK-011 Trial; FDA Set PDUFA Date of Oct. 4, 2026








The Company and Eisai Provided Update on Phase 3 LITESPARK-012 Trial Evaluating First-Line Combination Treatments for Certain Patients With Advanced RCC








Vaccines and

Infectious Diseases






FDA Approved the Company’s Once-Daily IDVYNSO for Adults With Virologically Suppressed HIV-1; Based on Results From Phase 3 MK-8591A-051 and MK-8591A-052 Trials








The Company Announced Late-Breaking Data From Three Phase 3 Trials Evaluating DOR/ISL, an Investigational, Once-Daily, Two-Drug Regimen for the Treatment of Adults Living With HIV-1, at CROI 2026








EC Approved ENFLONSIA for the Prevention of RSV Lower Respiratory Tract Disease in Infants During Their First RSV Season; Based on Results From Phase 2b/3 CLEVER and Phase 3 SMART Trials








The Company Announced Positive New Data for ENFLONSIA for Infants and Children Under 2 Years of Age at Increased Risk for Severe RSV Disease Over Two RSV Seasons; Results From Phase 3 SMART Trial








The Company Presented New Data Reinforcing Long-Term Efficacy of GARDASIL 9 and GARDASIL at the EUROGIN International Multidisciplinary HPV Congress 2026








Cardiometabolic and

Respiratory






Enlicitide Decanoate, an Investigational Oral PCSK9 Inhibitor, Demonstrated Significantly Greater LDL-C Reductions at Eight Weeks Compared to Guideline-Recommended Oral Non-Statin Therapies When Added to Background Statins; Results From Phase 3 CORALreef AddOn Trial








Positive Data From Phase 2 CADENCE Trial Provided Definitive Proof-of-Concept for WINREVAIR in Adults With the Syndrome of CpcPH-HFpEF








Ophthalmology






The Company Initiated Pivotal Phase 2b/3 Trial Evaluating MK-8748, an Investigational Bispecific Tie2 Agonist/VEGF Inhibitor, for the Treatment of Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration








Animal Health






FDA Approved NUMELVI for Dogs – First and Only Second-Generation JAK Inhibitor for the Control of Pruritus Associated With Allergic Dermatitis








Research






The Company and Mayo Clinic Announced New Research and Development Collaboration to Support AI-Enabled Drug Discovery and Precision Medicine








The Company and Google Cloud Partnered To Accelerate Agentic AI Enterprise Transformation








*References to the Company’s name in the above news release titles have been modified for the purpose of this announcement.







Upcoming Investor Event

The Company will hold an Oncology Investor Event to coincide with the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting on Monday, June 1, 2026, 6 p.m. CT, during which senior management will provide an update on the Company’s oncology strategy and program. The event will take place in Chicago and will be accessible via live audio webcast at this weblink.


Full-Year 2026 Financial Outlook

The following table summarizes the Company’s full-year financial outlook.




 






Full Year 2026








 






Updated






Prior








Sales*






$65.8 billion to $67.0 billion






$65.5 billion to $67.0 billion








Non-GAAP Gross margin3






Approximately 82%






Approximately 82%








Non-GAAP Operating expenses3**






$36.0 billion to $36.8 billion






$35.9 billion to $36.9 billion








Non-GAAP Other (income) expense, net3






Approximately $1.3 billion expense






Approximately $1.3 billion expense








Non-GAAP Effective income tax rate3






23.5% to 24.5%






23.5% to 24.5%








Non-GAAP EPS3***






$5.04 to $5.16






$5.00 to $5.15








Share count (assuming dilution)






Approximately 2.48 billion






Approximately 2.48 billion








*The Company does not have any non-GAAP adjustments to sales.








**Includes a one-time charge of $9.0 billion for the acquisition of Cidara. Outlook does not reflect the proposed acquisition of Terns or assume any additional significant potential business development transactions.








***Includes a one-time charge of $3.62 per share for the acquisition of Cidara.







The Company has not provided a reconciliation of forward-looking non-GAAP gross margin, non-GAAP operating expenses, non-GAAP other (income) expense, net, non-GAAP effective income tax rate and non-GAAP EPS to the most directly comparable GAAP measures, given it cannot predict with reasonable certainty the amounts necessary for such a reconciliation, including intangible asset impairment charges, legal settlements, and income and losses from investments in equity securities either owned directly or through ownership interests in investment funds, without unreasonable effort. These items are inherently difficult to forecast and could have a significant impact on the Company’s future GAAP results.


The Company now anticipates full-year 2026 sales to be between $65.8 billion and $67.0 billion, including a positive impact from foreign exchange of approximately 1% at mid-April 2026 exchange rates.


The Company continues to expect the full-year non-GAAP effective income tax rate to be between 23.5% and 24.5% including the impact of the non-tax-deductible one-time charge for the acquisition of Cidara.


The Company now expects full-year 2026 non-GAAP EPS to be between $5.04 and $5.16, including a positive impact from foreign exchange of approximately $0.10 per share at mid-April 2026 exchange rates. This range includes a one-time charge of $9.0 billion, or $3.62 per share, related to the acquisition of Cidara. In 2025, non-GAAP EPS of $8.98 was negatively impacted by one-time charges of $0.20 per share in the aggregate related to certain business development transactions.


In April 2026, the Company announced a tender offer to acquire Terns. The Company’s financial outlook does not reflect this transaction, which is expected to be accounted for as an asset acquisition and result in a one-time charge of approximately $5.8 billion, or approximately $2.35 per share. In addition, taking into consideration operational investment to advance TERN-701, as well as the cost of financing the transaction, the Company also anticipates EPS will be negatively impacted by approximately $0.12 over the remainder of 2026 following the close, which is expected in May.


The financial outlook does not assume additional significant potential business development transactions.


Earnings Conference Call

Investors, journalists and the general public may access a live audio webcast of the call on Thursday, April 30, at 9 a.m. ET via this weblink. A replay of the webcast, along with the sales and earnings news release, supplemental financial disclosures and slides highlighting the results, will be available on the Company’s website.


All participants may join the call by dialing (800) 369-3351 (U.S. and Canada Toll-Free) or (517) 308-9448 and using the access code 9818590.


About Our Company

At Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities.


Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA

This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “Company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the Company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees with respect to pipeline candidates that the candidates will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.


Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the Company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the Company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.


The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov).


Appendix

Generic product names are provided below.


Pharmaceutical

BRIDION (sugammadex)

CAPVAXIVE (Pneumococcal 21-valent Conjugate Vaccine)

ENFLONSIA (clesrovimab-cfor)

GARDASIL (Human Papillomavirus Quadrivalent [Types 6, 11, 16 and 18] Vaccine, Recombinant)

GARDASIL 9 (Human Papillomavirus 9-valent Vaccine, Recombinant)

IDVYNSO (doravirine/islatravir)

JANUMET (sitagliptin and metformin HCl)

JANUVIA (sitagliptin)

KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab)

KEYTRUDA QLEX (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph)

LAGEVRIO (molnupiravir)

Lenvima (lenvatinib)

Lynparza (olaparib)

M-M-R II (Measles, Mumps and Rubella Virus Vaccine Live)

OHTUVAYRE (ensifentrine)

PREVYMIS (letermovir)

PROQUAD (Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella Virus Vaccine Live)

VARIVAX (Varicella Virus Vaccine Live)

ROTATEQ (Rotavirus Vaccine, Live, Oral, Pentavalent)

WELIREG (belzutifan)

WINREVAIR (sotatercept-csrk)


Animal Health

BRAVECTO (fluralaner)

NUMELVI (atinvicitinib tablets)



________________________________ 



1 Available in some markets as KEYTRUDA SC.








2 Net (loss) income attributable to the Company.








3 The Company is providing certain 2026 and 2025 non-GAAP information that excludes certain items because of the nature of these items and the impact they have on the analysis of underlying business performance and trends. Management believes that providing this information enhances investors’ understanding of the Company’s results because management uses non-GAAP results to assess performance. Management uses non-GAAP measures internally for planning and forecasting purposes and to measure the performance of the Company along with other metrics. In addition, annual employee compensation, including senior management’s compensation, is derived in part using a non-GAAP pretax income metric. This information should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for or superior to, information prepared in accordance with GAAP. For a description of the non-GAAP adjustments, see Table 2a attached to this release.








4 Reflects expenses related to business combinations, including the amortization of intangible assets, intangible asset impairment charges, and expense or income related to changes in the estimated fair value measurement of liabilities for contingent consideration. Also includes integration, transaction and certain other costs associated with acquisitions and divestitures, as well as amortization of intangible assets related to collaborations, licensing arrangements and asset acquisitions, and recognition of fair value step-up to inventories for asset acquisitions.








5 Includes the estimated income tax impacts on the reconciling items based on applying the statutory rate of the originating territory of the non-GAAP adjustments for all periods presented.








6 Bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (BIKTARVY) is a registered trademark of Gilead Sciences, Inc.








(AMOUNTS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE FIGURES)


(UNAUDITED)


Table 1


 





 





GAAP






 






% Change











 





 





1Q26






1Q25






 











 





 


 





 


Sales


$






16,286






 






$






15,529






 







5%








 





 





 


Costs, Expenses and Other





 








Cost of sales


 






4,195






 






 






3,419






 







23%








Selling, general and administrative


 






2,700






 






 






2,552






 







6%








Research and development


 






12,592






 






 






3,621






 







*








Restructuring costs


 






195






 






 






69






 







*








Other (income) expense, net


 






138






 






 






(35






)







*








(Loss) Income Before Taxes


 






(3,534






)






 






5,903






 







*








Income Tax Provision


 






709






 






 






818






 







 








Net (Loss) Income


 






(4,243






)






 






5,085






 







*








Less: Net (Loss) Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests


 






(3






)






 






6






 







 








Net (Loss) Income Attributable to Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA


$






(4,240






)






$






5,079






 







*








 





 





 


(Loss) Earnings per Common Share Assuming Dilution (1)


$






(1.72






)






$






2.01






 







*








 





 


Average Shares Outstanding Assuming Dilution (1)


 






2,472






 






 






2,531






 










Tax Rate


 






-20.1






%






 






13.9






%










 





 


* 100% or greater








 


(1) Because the Company recorded a net loss in the first quarter of 2026, no potential dilutive common shares were used in the computation of loss per common share assuming dilution as the effect would have been anti-dilutive.




MERCK & CO., INC., RAHWAY, N.J., USA


FIRST QUARTER 2026 GAAP TO NON-GAAP RECONCILIATION


(AMOUNTS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE FIGURES)


(UNAUDITED)


Table 2a


 





GAAP






 






Acquisition- and

Divestiture-Related

Costs (1)






 






Restructuring

Costs (2)






 






(Income) Loss

from Investments

in Equity Securities






 






Adjustment

Subtotal






 






Non-GAAP










 






 






 






 






 







First Quarter














Cost of sales


$






4,195






 







1,014






 







237






 









1,251






 







$






2,944






 







Selling, general and administrative


 






2,700






 







32






 











32






 







 






2,668






 







Research and development


 






12,592






 









34






 









34






 







 






12,558






 







Restructuring costs


 






195






 









195






 









195






 







 






–






 







Other (income) expense, net


 






138






 











(180






)







(180






)







 






318






 







Loss Before Taxes


 






(3,534






)







(1,046






)







(466






)







180






 







(1,332






)







 






(2,202






)







Income Tax Provision (Benefit)


 






709






 







(202






)






(3)






(85






)






(3)






39






 






(3)






(248






)







 






957






 







Net Loss


 






(4,243






)







(844






)







(381






)







141






 







(1,084






)







 






(3,159






)







Net Loss Attributable to Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA


 






(4,240






)







(844






)







(381






)







141






 







(1,084






)







 






(3,156






)







Loss per Common Share Assuming Dilution (4)


$






(1.72






)







(0.34






)







(0.16






)







0.06






 







(0.44






)







$






(1.28






)



















 


Tax Rate


 






-20.1






%















 






-43.5






%







 











 


Only the line items that are affected by non-GAAP adjustments are shown.


The Company is providing certain non-GAAP information that excludes certain items because of the nature of these items and the impact they have on the analysis of underlying business performance and trends. Management believes that providing non-GAAP information enhances investors’ understanding of the Company’s results because management uses non-GAAP measures to assess performance. Management uses non-GAAP measures internally for planning and forecasting purposes and to measure the performance of the Company along with other metrics. In addition, annual employee compensation, including senior management’s compensation, is derived in part using a non-GAAP pretax income metric. The non-GAAP information presented should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for or superior to, information prepared in accordance with GAAP.


(1) Amounts included in cost of sales reflect expenses for the amortization of intangible assets, as well as the recognition of fair value step-up of inventories related to the 2025 Verona Pharma plc acquisition. Amounts included in selling, general and administrative expenses reflect integration, transaction and certain other costs related to acquisitions and divestitures.


(2) Amounts primarily include employee separation costs, accelerated depreciation and asset impairment charges associated with facilities to be closed or divested, as well as contractual termination costs, associated with activities under the Company's formal restructuring programs.


(3) Represents the estimated tax impacts on the reconciling items based on applying the statutory rate of the originating territory of the non-GAAP adjustments.


(4) Because the Company recorded a net loss in the first quarter of 2026, no potential dilutive common shares were used in the computation of loss per common share assuming dilution as the effect would have been anti-dilutive.



MERCK & CO., INC., RAHWAY, N.J., USA


FRANCHISE / KEY PRODUCT SALES


(AMOUNTS IN MILLIONS)


(UNAUDITED)


Table 3


 









 




2026







2025






1Q




1Q

1Q
2Q
3Q
4Q
Full Year

Nom %
Ex-Exch %


TOTAL SALES (1)

$16,286







$15,529






$15,806






$17,276






$16,400






$65,011







5






3







PHARMACEUTICAL

14,349







13,638






14,050






15,611






14,843






58,142







5






2







Oncology












Keytruda

7,906







7,205






7,956






8,142






8,337






31,641







10






6







Keytruda Qlex

128









5






35






40







-






-







Alliance Revenue – Lynparza (2)

341







312






370






379






389






1,450







9






6







Alliance Revenue – Lenvima (2)

256







258






265






258






272






1,053







-1






-2







Welireg

199







137






162






196






220






716







45






43







Alliance Revenue – Reblozyl (3)

148







119






107






136






164






525







25






25







Vaccines (4)












Gardasil/Gardasil 9

1,069







1,327






1,126






1,749






1,031






5,233







-19






-22







ProQuad/M-M-R II/Varivax

538







539






609






684






619






2,451







-






-2







RotaTeq

206







228






121






204






119






673







-10






-11







Vaxneuvance

202







230






229






226






140






825







-12






-16







Capvaxive

142







107






129






244






279






759







33






31







Enflonsia

1









79






21






100







-






-







Cardiometabolic & Respiratory












Winrevair

525







280






336






360






467






1,443







88






87







Ohtuvayre

131










178






178







-






-







Alliance Revenue - Adempas/Verquvo (5)

109







106






123






112






129






470







3






3







Adempas (6)

78







68






80






82






83






312







15






5







Infectious Diseases












Bridion

472







441






461






439






499






1,841







7






7







Prevymis

272







208






228






266






275






978







31






26







Zerbaxa

82







70






74






81






87






312







17






14







Delstrigo

75







67






83






77






79






306







12






1







Isentress/Isentress HD

59







90






86






82






67






325







-34






-36







Dificid

34







83






96






43






25






247







-59






-59







Lagevrio

28







102






83






138






57






380







-73






-73







Diabetes












Januvia

367







549






372






382






302






1,604







-33






-33







Janumet

207







247






251






243






199






940







-16






-18







Other Pharmaceutical (7)

774







865






703






1,004






770






3,340







-11






-12







ANIMAL HEALTH

1,791







1,588






1,646






1,615






1,505






6,354







13






6







Livestock

1,064







924






961






1,023






987






3,896







15






8







Companion Animal

727







664






685






592






518






2,458







9






4







Other Revenues (8)

146







303






110






50






52






515







-52






4







 









 


Sum of quarterly amounts may not equal year-to-date amounts due to rounding.


 









 


(1) Only select products are shown.


(2) Alliance Revenue represents the Company's share of profits, which are product sales net of cost of sales and commercialization costs.


(3) Alliance Revenue represents royalties.


(4) Total Vaccines sales were $2,314 million and $2,607 million in the first quarter of 2026 and 2025, respectively.


(5) Alliance Revenue represents the Company's share of profits from sales in Bayer's marketing territories, which are product sales net of cost of sales and commercialization costs.


(6) Net product sales in the Company's marketing territories.





(7) Includes Pharmaceutical products not individually shown above. Also reflects total alliance revenue for Koselugo of $161 million and $44 million in the first quarter of 2026 and 2025, respectively.


(8) Other Revenues are comprised primarily of revenues from third-party manufacturing arrangements and miscellaneous corporate revenues, including revenue-hedging activities. Other Revenues related to the receipt of milestone payments for out-licensed products were $132 million and $95 million in the first quarter of 2026 and 2025, respectively.


 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260430995314/en/
Media Contacts:
Michael Levey

michael.levey@msd.com
John Cummins

john.cummins2@msd.com
Investor Contacts:
Peter Dannenbaum

(732) 594-1579
Steven Graziano

(732) 594-1583


Original: Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA Announces First-Quarter 2026 Financial Results; Highlights Significant Regulatory Approvals and Clinical Milestones