Merck Reports Strong Phase 2b Trial Data for Tulisokibart

Merck & Co. reported positive Phase 2b trial data for its experimental drug tulisokibart on September 30, 2026. The study found that 72.00 percent of patients receiving the high-dose regimen achieved HiSCR50 at week 16, compared with 35.00 percent for placebo. The medium-dose group reached 64.00 percent, showing two active regimens outperforming the placebo. The high-dose group also demonstrated a 41.00 percent HiSCR75 response, significantly higher than the 15.00 percent seen in the placebo group.

Adverse events occurred in 42.90 percent of the high-dose group and 40.90 percent of placebo patients, indicating a comparable safety profile between the treatment and control groups. The data provides a measurable clinical signal for investors, especially as Merck prepares for its third-quarter 2026 earnings call on October 29.

Merck's financial performance also showed strength, with second-quarter 2026 revenue reaching USD 16.61 billion, surpassing the expected USD 16.37 billion. This marked a 5.10 percent year-over-year increase, despite a net loss of USD 1.34 billion for the quarter. MarketBeat cited an average one-year price target of USD 146.36 for Merck stock, which was trading at EUR 124.78 on Xetra as of October 6, 2026.

The company's stock had a 52-week range of USD 82.01 to USD 156.92, reflecting its volatile yet promising outlook. Merck's expanding late-stage pipeline in oncology and immunology adds to the optimism surrounding its future prospects.