Updated
Updated · Bloomberg · Aug 4
Merck Lifts 2026 Sales Outlook to $67.3 Billion as Winrevair Demand Offsets Profit Hit
Updated
Updated · Bloomberg · Aug 4

Merck Lifts 2026 Sales Outlook to $67.3 Billion as Winrevair Demand Offsets Profit Hit

3 articles · Updated · Bloomberg · Aug 4

Summary

  • Merck raised its 2026 revenue forecast to $66.3 billion-$67.3 billion after stronger second-quarter sales from newer medicines, including Winrevair, lifted results.
  • Q2 sales reached $16.6 billion, up 5%, with Winrevair contributing $588 million and Keytruda Qlex adding $463 million.
  • Adjusted 2026 profit guidance fell to $2.66-$2.76 a share, below analyst expectations, after acquisition-related charges tied to Terns Pharmaceuticals.
  • The mixed outlook shows Merck leaning on newer products and dealmaking to cushion future patent pressure on older blockbusters such as Keytruda, Januvia and Janumet.

Insights

Why is Merck sacrificing half its annual profit for a single leukemia drug acquisition?
Can Merck's billion-dollar biotech gamble save it from the looming Keytruda patent cliff?