Wells Fargo raises Amgen stock price target to $435 on drug trial outlook

Amgen (AMGN) shares fell 6.8% after U.K. regulators suspended Tavneos for new patients, citing concerns about its efficacy. The FDA also proposed withdrawing the drug in the U.S., raising regulatory risks. Tavneos contributes a small portion of Amgen's revenue. Insider sales, hedge fund activity, and analyst price targets were also noted.

Amgen (AMGN) reported Repatha reduced all-cause mortality by 20% in a secondary analysis of the VESALIUS-CV trial. The study involved over 12,000 high-risk adults without prior heart attacks or strokes. Repatha also lowered cardiovascular risks and LDL-C levels. Amgen aims to expand use before first major cardiovascular events, citing 15 years of clinical trials and global use in 9 million patients.

Novartis (NVS) and Ionis (IONS) shares dropped after-hours Friday after a heart-disease trial for pelacarsen failed to show reduced risk of heart attacks or strokes, despite lowering lipoprotein(a). NVS fell 7%, IONS 10%. Amgen (AMGN) also dropped 5% as it develops a similar drug. NVS closed at $159.99. Both NVS and IONS have seen significant YTD changes, up 16% and down 27% respectively.

AstraZeneca and Amgen reported positive phase 3 trial results for tezepelumab (Tezspire) in treating eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). The study showed improved dysphagia and histologic remission at weeks 24 and 52 compared to placebo. The companies plan to share data with regulators. Tezspire is already FDA-approved for severe asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis.

AstraZeneca and Amgen's TEZSPIRE met primary endpoints in a Phase III trial for eosinophilic esophagitis, showing significant improvements in histologic remission and dysphagia symptoms. The drug maintained efficacy through 52 weeks, with results planned for regulatory submission. TEZSPIRE is approved for severe asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

The FTC filed an amicus brief in a case involving Amgen's acquisition of patent applications for Enbrel, alleging antitrust violations. The FTC argues that such acquisitions can extend monopoly power and block competition, despite Amgen's claim of immunity under the Noerr-Pennington doctrine. The case could impact biologic drug markets and pharma M&A strategies. Amgen has appealed the district court's decision to deny its motion to dismiss.