Merck Sharpe and Dohme sees four percent growth in 2011

Merck Sharpe and Dohme has reported a global sales total of $48 billion (30.49 billion pounds) in 2011, up by four percent year on year.

The company achieved this total following a two percent sales increase in the fourth quarter, with double-digit global growth achieved by key products Januvia, Janumet, Isentress and Gardasil.

In the last year, Merck Sharpe and Dohme's income from emerging markets rose to 18 percent, with surging demand coming from China, while its diabetes franchise was among its most successful.

A number of key regulatory approvals were also achieved, with a further five major new products set to be submitted for ratification in 2012 and 2013.

Kenneth Frazier, chairman and chief executive officer of Merck Sharpe and Dohme, said: "As we begin 2012 and look ahead, we are optimistic about our underlying business, our current momentum and the early success of our strategy."

This comes in the same week that the company was granted US Food and Drug Administration approval for a new diabetes therapy, Janumet XR.