Shire reports strong sales performance in first quarter of 2015

Shire has announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2015, during which it delivered a revenue total of $1.49 billion (974.5 million pounds).

This represented a year-on-year increase of 11 percent, or 15 percent on a constant exchange rate basis. The strong sales increase was driven by the robust demand for products such as Vyvanse, Cinryze, Firazyr and Lialda/Mezavant.

During the period, the company completed the acquisition of NPS Pharmaceuticals and is making good progress with the integration. This takeover added products such as Gattex/Revestive and Natpara to Shire's portfolio.

Additionally, the firm incorporated a new eosinophilic oesophagitis treatment into its pipeline with the acquisition of Meritage Pharma in February.

Shire remains confident in delivering non-GAAP diluted earnings per share growth in the mid-single digits in 2015.

Dr Flemming Ornskov, Shire's chief executive officer, said: "Our continued financial performance, driven by the strength of our commercial operations, focus on efficiency and breadth of our innovative pipeline, are indicators of our bright future."