HPV Vaccine Sales Increase 4%

Merck today announced financial results for the second quarter of 2024 were $16.1 Billion, an increase of 7% from the same period in 2023.

In the cancer prevention market segment, Merck's Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines reported sales increases. 

The 4% growth in the GARDSAIL/GARDASIl 9 HPV vaccines was primarily due to higher sales in the U.S., driven by higher pricing, demand, public-sector buying patterns, and higher demand in certain ex-U.S. markets.

The growth was largely offset by lower sales in China due to the timing of shipments compared with the prior year.

“Our business is demonstrating strong momentum as we exit the first half of the year,” said Robert M. Davis, chairman and chief executive officer of Merck, in a press release on July 30, 2024.

“Through excellent scientific, commercial, and operational execution, we’re achieving significant milestones for our company and patients, including the launch of WINREVAIR. I am proud of our dedicated teams around the world that are working tirelessly to advance our deep pipeline as we continue delivering innovation that solves unmet medical needs.”

According to the U.S. CDC, there is an increasing rate of STDs. For example, people 55 and older reported a significant increase in HPV diagnoses.

'Almost every unvaccinated person who is sexually active will get HPV at some time in their life. About 13 million Americans, including teens, become infected with HPV each year. Most HPV infections will go away on their own. But infections that don’t go away can cause certain types of cancer.'

Merck's HPV vaccines are generally available at medical clinics and pharmacies in the United States.