Merck (MRK) Wins FDA Approval For WELIREG Plus LENVIMA In Kidney Cancer

PhRMA sued the U.S. government over a Medicare drug pricing program, claiming it imposes illegal foreign price controls. The policy, set to take effect in 2027, bases prices on international averages. PhRMA, representing 34 manufacturers including Pfizer and Sanofi, seeks to block the program, arguing it lacks statutory authority and could harm innovation and patient access.

A Dutch court blocked Merck from producing and selling its subcutaneous Keytruda formulation in 8 European countries, ruling it infringes a Halozyme Therapeutics patent. Merck argued the patent is invalid, but the court rejected this. The decision follows a similar ruling in Germany. Merck's intravenous Keytruda remains unaffected, generating $7.9 billion in Q2, while the subcutaneous version contributed $463 million.

Cantor Fitzgerald raised Merck's (NYSE: MRK) price target to $145 from $120, citing improved 2027 outlook. Guggenheim maintained a Buy rating with a $170 target, but lowered Q3 2026 sales and EPS estimates. Merck faces patent issues in Europe and has a licensing deal for a KRAS inhibitor.

Guggenheim maintained a Buy rating and $170 price target for Merck (NYSE:MRK) ahead of Q3 2026 earnings. The firm adjusted estimates, lowering Q3 sales to $17.44B and EPS to $2.08, citing R&D charges. Full-year estimates were also reduced. Merck's earnings call may focus on pipeline progress and recent data releases. The company faces a patent infringement ruling in Europe and has entered a licensing agreement for an oral KRASG12D inhibitor.

A Dutch court ruled in favor of Halozyme Therapeutics, ordering Merck & Co. to halt sales of injectable Keytruda in eight European markets. The court found Merck infringed Halozyme's patent for a rapid drug delivery technology. Merck disputes the ruling and is reviewing its options. Keytruda SC is crucial for Merck's growth as patents on its original version expire later this decade.

Halozyme won a Dutch court order against Merck, halting the sale and production of Keytruda SC in eight European markets. The ruling found Merck infringed Halozyme's patent for under-the-skin drug delivery. Merck plans to evaluate next steps and disputes the decision. Halozyme has also sued Merck in the U.S. and Germany.