Merck Raises 2026 Outlook as Keytruda Growth Drives Q3 Beat
Oct 29, 2026, 6:49 AM EDT1 sourcesAI-analyzed
Why it may matterVerify against the original reporting
Strong beat on both EPS and revenue, plus higher 2026 guidance and a sizable Qlex contribution imply a positive price re-rating. The one-time charge weighs on margins but is offset by core growth and product diversification; patent expiry risk remains a longer-term consideration.
AI summary
What happened, with direct paths to the underlying reporting
Merck topped Q3 estimates and raised its adjusted EPS outlook to $2.77–$2.82, while narrowing 2026 revenue guidance. Growth was led by Keytruda and the newer Qlex injector, which posted $830M in quarterly sales. Gardasil demand and Winrevair performance contributed to a robust top-line, underscoring diversification beyond Keytruda.
Merck beat Q3 estimates; raised adjusted EPS to $2.77-$2.82. Prior guidance was $2.66-$2.76.
Keytruda sales reached $8.60B; Qlex contributed $830M in Q3, highest since 2025.
2026 revenue guidance narrowed to $66.8B-$67.3B; includes a $400M one-time charge.
Gardasil demand strong in the US; Winrevair sales up 93% to $694M; total revenue $18.09B.
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