Merck Sharp and Dohme highlights progress and momentum in 2015 report

Merck Sharp and Dohme has published its financial report for 2015, outlining some of the key trends that will support its growth in the coming year.

The company's full-year worldwide sales came to $39.5 billion (27.2 billion pounds), down six percent on 2014 due to the effect of negative currency trends and an unfavourable impact from acquisitions and divestitures.

However, it was able to achieve a number of key strategic milestones, including the securing of US approval for the hepatitis C drug Zepatier and the progression of the development of its promising lung cancer treatment Keytruda.

It also strengthened its oncology pipeline by acquiring IOmet Pharma, a specialist in the field of cancer immunotherapy and metabolism.

Merck anticipates full-year 2016 revenues to be between $38.7 billion and $40.2 billion, including an approximately three percent negative impact from foreign exchange.

Kenneth Frazier, chairman and chief executive officer of Merck Sharp and Dohme, said: "I'm excited by the near-term opportunities, as we continue launching important new products like Zepatier and Keytruda while augmenting and advancing our pipeline."