Merck reported October 29 that third-quarter sales increased 5% to $18.085 billion and raised the midpoint of its annual revenue forecast.
The company now expects 2026 sales of $66.8 billion–$67.3 billion. Its adjusted earnings forecast narrowed to $2.77–$2.82 per share.
Quarterly net income under standard accounting rules fell 12% to $5.065 billion. Reported earnings were $2.04 per share, compared with adjusted earnings of $2.49. Both measures included a 12-cent charge related to a global licensing agreement with SciBrunch.
Combined Keytruda and Keytruda Qlex sales rose 6% to $8.6 billion, including $830 million from Qlex. Winrevair sales reached $694 million, up 93% on a reported basis. Animal-health revenue increased 4% to $1.7 billion.
The annual adjusted earnings outlook includes substantial acquisition-related charges: $9 billion associated with Cidara and $5.7 billion associated with Terns, as well as the SciBrunch licensing charge. Those costs affect comparisons with the prior year.
The outlook is management’s projection. This account covers Merck’s financial disclosures and does not assess treatment suitability or establish the effectiveness of investigational products.
Sources: Merck — October 29 Financial Results: https://www.merck.com/news/merck-co-inc-rahway-n-j-usa-announces-third-quarter-2026-financial-results-highlights-multiple-milestones-advancing-broad-diverse-pipeline/