Wyeth highlights UK vaccine in half year results

Wyeth has highlighted the importance of the European drugs market as it released its half year results.

The company reported net revenue growth of 11 per cent during the second quarter, aided by the success of Enbrel, its anti-TNF drug for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, and Prevnar, a pneumococcal disease vaccine.

In particular, Wyeth said a “major contributor” to the sales success of Prevnar was its introduction into the UK’s National Immunisation Programme, aimed at protecting British children against seven strains of pneumococcal bacteria most likely to cause illness.

Furthermore, the company reported increased revenue for Efexor, which it describes as now being the world’s best-selling antidepressant.

Robert Essner, chairman and chief executive officer of Wyeth, stated: “Wyeth continued its strong performance in the 2006 second quarter.”

“Significant sales growth from Enbrel, Prevnar and most of our broad product portfolio, NDA filings for two new products and the continuation of productivity initiatives including our pharmaceuticals sales force reorganisation have positioned us for further growth.”

He concluded: “We are on track for another excellent year.”

Wyeth also highlighted the approval of Tygacil in Europe, the first antibiotic in a new class of broad-spectrum antibiotics called glycylcyclines.

Commenting on the approval that came in May, David McIntosh, medical director of Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, commented: “The availability of Tygacil in Europe will provide physicians with an important new alternative in the treatment of complicated skin and intra-abdominal infections.”

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