Merck Sharpe and Dohme outlines new pipeline developments

Merck Sharpe and Dohme has detailed its updated developmental product portfolio to account for its expansion from the recent merger with Schering-Plough.

The pharmaceutical company reported that its investigational medicines pipeline now includes more than 20 candidates which are in phase III development or beyond, while a further 20 remain in phase II.

These treatments pertain to a wide range of medical needs, with a focus on cardiovascular conditions such as arteriosclerosis and atrial fibrillation, as well as infectious conditions such as hepatitis C.

Dr Peter Kim, president of Merck Research Laboratories, said the combination of the two companies’ pipelines has allowed for a “robust and diversified portfolio”.

He added: “Many of the more than 40 phase II and phase III investigational medicines and vaccines have the potential to have a major impact on human health.”

Last week, the company reported positive results from a recent phase III clinical trial of Isentress, its treatment for sufferers of HIV.