Merck Surpasses Expectations with Strong Second-Quarter Sales and Earnings
Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) reported its second-quarter sales and earnings on August 4, 2026. The company's revenue reached $16.6 billion, a 4% increase excluding foreign exchange impacts driven by strong demand in Oncology and Animal Health.
The non-GAAP EPS was a loss of $0.13, reflecting a $2.31 per share one-time charge related to the acquisition of Terns Pharmaceuticals. KEYTRUDA sales increased 4% excluding exchange impacts due to uptake in earlier-stage cancers and metastatic indications. The company also reported positive results for its WINREVAIR treatment, with over 1,800 new patients in the U.S. receiving prescriptions.
Animal Health revenue rose 5% excluding exchange impacts led by ruminant and poultry products in the Livestock segment. Merck & Co., Inc. completed the acquisition of Terns Pharmaceuticals for $6.8 billion, adding MK-4208 for chronic myeloid leukemia and resulting in a $5.7 billion non-tax-deductible R&D charge.
The company raised its full-year revenue guidance to a range of $66.3 billion to $67.3 billion, reflecting approximately 1% positive impact from foreign exchange. Merck & Co., Inc. also secured FDA approval for LIPFENDRA as the first once-daily oral PCSK9 inhibitor for hypercholesterolemia, demonstrating up to 60% LDL cholesterol reduction.