Merck Shares Surge on Promising Cholesterol Drug Trial Results
Merck & Co. saw its stock price leap 8.5% following positive Phase 3 trial results for its experimental oral PCSK9 inhibitor, enlicitide decanoate. The drug demonstrated significant LDL cholesterol reduction in high-risk patients while maintaining a safety profile comparable to placebo.
The pharmaceutical giant also reported stronger-than-expected Q3 earnings of $2.58 per share, with revenues hitting $17.3 billion. European regulators expanded approval for KEYTRUDA as a standalone treatment for head and neck cancer, while Blackstone Life Sciences committed $700 million to accelerate cancer research programs.