Merck's MASH Drug Hits Mid-Stage Marks as Latecomers Chase a $1 Billion-Plus Market

Merck (MRK) reported positive Phase 2b trial results for Efinopegdutide, showing MASH resolution rates of 56-63% vs. 13% for placebo. The study met primary and key secondary endpoints, demonstrating improvement in liver scarring. The drug received FDA Fast Track Designation. MRK stock closed at $148.76, up 1.38%.

Merck's experimental drug efinopegdutide showed positive results in a Phase 2b trial for treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), resolving the disease in up to 63% of patients after 52 weeks. The trial involved 381 adults with moderate or advanced fibrosis, with varying doses of the drug compared to placebo. Merck licensed the drug from Hanmi Pharmaceutical and it has received FDA Fast Track designation.

Merck (MRK) announced that its MASH treatment candidate, efinopegdutide, achieved its primary efficacy goal in a phase 2b trial. The study tested three doses in adults with stage F2 or F3 MASH.

Merck (MRK) reported positive Phase 2b trial results for efinopegdutide, a GLP-1/glucagon receptor co-agonist, in treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis with liver fibrosis. The trial met its primary endpoint, with 56-63% of participants achieving MASH resolution across different doses, compared to 13% for placebo. The drug received FDA Fast Track designation and is being developed under a licensing agreement with Hanmi Pharmaceutical.

Merck (MRK) reported positive Phase 2b trial results for efinopegdutide, an investigational treatment for MASH with stage 2-3 fibrosis. The study met primary endpoints, showing 56-63% MASH resolution across doses vs. 13% for placebo. Efinopegdutide demonstrated meaningful fibrosis improvements and a safety profile consistent with semaglutide. The drug has FDA Fast Track designation.

Merck reported Phase 2b trial results for its MASH treatment, efinopegdutide, showing 56%–63% resolution rates across doses versus 13% for placebo. Fibrosis improvement rates ranged from 34% to 52%, compared to 21% for placebo. The trial met its primary endpoint, but further development is needed for regulatory approval.