Resilient US Rebif, Gonal-f Q2 Sales Allow German Merck To Up Forecast

Germany's Merck KGAA – which is trying to transform itself into a top oncology and immuno-oncology innovator – lifted its full-year earnings forecast Aug 4 in part on the back of stable US sales for its Gonal-f fertility treatment after the recall of a rival product there, and for demand for its Rebif (interferon beta-1a) treatment for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis, which faces competition from oral treatments.

The company said its priorities going forward are now boosting its pharma pipeline, further integration of chemicals and biologicals maker Sigma-Aldrich, which it acquired recently for $17bn, and reducing its...