What is the primary business of Merck & Co., and how is it known outside the United States and Canada?

Merck & Co., Inc. is an American multinational pharmaceutical company. Outside of the United States and Canada, the company operates under the name Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD).

What industry does Merck & Co. operate in, and what are its main sources of revenue?

Merck & Co. operates in the pharmaceutical industry. Its primary revenue streams come from cancer treatments, vaccines, and animal health products.

What were Merck & Co.'s reported revenue, operating income, and net income for 2024?

In 2024, Merck & Co. reported a revenue of US$64.17 billion, an operating income of US$19.94 billion, and a net income of US$17.12 billion. These figures represent an increase compared to previous periods.

How many employees did Merck & Co. have as of 2024?

As of 2024, Merck & Co. employed approximately 75,000 people worldwide. This indicates a significant global workforce dedicated to its pharmaceutical operations.

What are the official websites for Merck & Co. in the US/Canada and internationally?

The official website for Merck & Co. in the United States and Canada is merck.com. For international operations, the company uses the website msd.com.

When was Merck & Co. established, and what was its initial relationship with the Merck Group?

Merck & Co. was established in January 1891 as the American affiliate of the German Merck Group. For many years, it operated as a subsidiary of its German parent company.

How did the U.S. government's actions during World War I affect Merck & Co.?

Following the U.S. entry into World War I, Merck & Co. was subject to expropriation under the Trading with the Enemy Act of 1917 due to its German affiliations. The government seized 80 percent of the shares owned by the German parent company.

What significant event in 1917 led to Merck & Co. becoming an independent entity?

During World War I, the U.S. government seized 80 percent of Merck & Co.'s shares due to its German parentage. This action effectively separated the American company from its German roots.

What was the outcome of the U.S. government auction for Merck & Co. in 1919?

In 1919, George F. Merck, in partnership with Goldman Sachs and Lehman Brothers, purchased the company back from the U.S. government at an auction for $3.5 million. This transaction solidified Merck & Co.'s status as an independent American company.

What is the ongoing trademark dispute between Merck & Co. and the Merck Group regarding the "Merck" name?

Merck & Co. holds the trademark rights to the "Merck" name in the United States and Canada, while the Merck Group (based in Germany) retains these rights in the rest of the world. This division has led to ongoing trademark disputes and litigation between the two distinct companies.

What groundbreaking antibiotic was discovered in 1943 through a Merck-funded research program, and what disease did it treat?

In 1943, streptomycin was discovered through a Merck-funded research program at Rutgers University. Streptomycin became the first effective treatment for tuberculosis, a significant advancement in combating the widespread disease.

How did Merck & Co. merge with Sharp & Dohme in 1953, and what did this acquisition add to its portfolio?

In 1953, Merck & Co. merged with Philadelphia-based Sharp & Dohme, Inc., becoming the largest U.S. drugmaker at the time. Sharp and Dohme had previously acquired H. K. Mulford Company, which added smallpox vaccines to Merck's offerings.

Who was Maurice Hilleman, and what significant vaccines did he develop while at Merck?

Maurice Hilleman was a scientist at Merck who made significant contributions to vaccinology. He developed the first vaccines for mumps (1967), rubella (1969), and the combined measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine (1971). He also developed the first vaccines for Hepatitis B and chickenpox.

What was the significance of the development of thiazide diuretics by Merck scientists in the 1950s?

Merck scientists developed thiazide diuretics in the 1950s, leading to the marketing of chlorothiazide (Diuril) in 1958. This class of drugs was recognized for saving lives and alleviating suffering for millions of hypertension patients, earning a Public Health Award in 1975.

What was the company's response to the Vioxx cardiovascular risk findings, and when did it voluntarily withdraw the drug?

Following studies indicating an increased risk of heart attack associated with Vioxx, Merck adjusted its labeling in 2002. On September 30, 2004, Merck voluntarily withdrew Vioxx from the market after receiving new clinical trial data showing increased cardiovascular risks with prolonged use.

What was the total value of the merger between Merck & Co. and Schering-Plough in 2009?

In November 2009, Merck & Co. completed its merger with Schering-Plough in a deal valued at US$41 billion. This merger significantly expanded Merck's market presence and product portfolio.

What was the rationale behind the "reverse merger" structure when Merck & Co. acquired Schering-Plough?

The merger was structured as a "reverse merger" where Schering-Plough effectively acquired "Old" Merck & Co. This maneuver was intended to avoid a "change-of-control" clause, thereby preserving Schering-Plough's marketing rights for certain products, such as Remicade.

How many jobs did Merck & Co. cut between 2010 and 2015, and what was the impact on the company's focus?

Between 2010 and 2015, Merck & Co. cut approximately 36,450 jobs. This period of restructuring also involved selling its consumer health business and narrowing the company's focus to immunology, vaccines, diabetes, emerging markets, and hospital-based medicines.

What was the total value of Merck's acquisition of Acceleron Pharma in September 2021?

In September 2021, Merck announced its intention to acquire Acceleron Pharma for $11.5 billion. This acquisition aimed to strengthen Merck's pipeline in areas like pulmonary hypertension with drugs such as Sotatercept.

Which Merck & Co. product generated the highest revenue in 2024, and what is its primary use?

Keytruda (pembrolizumab) generated the highest revenue for Merck & Co. in 2024, with sales of $29.5 billion. Keytruda is an immune modulator used to treat various types of cancer.

What is Lynparza, and what type of cancer does it treat?

Lynparza (olaparib) is a PARP inhibitor that generated $1.3 billion in revenue for Merck & Co. in 2024. It is used for the treatment of BRCA-mutated advanced ovarian cancer.

What is Gardasil, and what is its primary indication?

Gardasil, an HPV vaccine, generated $8.5 billion in revenue for Merck & Co. in 2024. It protects against multiple serotypes of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a major cause of cervical cancer.

What is the combination vaccine ProQuad/MMR II/Varivax used for?

The combination vaccine ProQuad/MMR II/Varivax generated $2.5 billion in revenue in 2024. It provides protection against measles, mumps, rubella (German measles), and varicella (chickenpox), often referred to as the MMRV vaccine.

What is Bridion used for in the context of general anesthesia?

Bridion (sugammadex) generated $1.7 billion in revenue in 2024 and is used in general anesthesia. It functions to reverse neuromuscular blockade that is induced by specific anesthetic agents like rocuronium and vecuronium.

What is Januvia, and why has it been popular among diabetes treatments?

Januvia (sitagliptin) is a dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitor used for type 2 diabetes treatment, generating $1.3 billion in revenue in 2024. Its popularity stems from its favorable side effect profile, causing little to no weight gain and not typically leading to hypoglycemic episodes, unlike some other diabetes medications.

What is Lagevrio, and what condition does it treat?

Lagevrio (molnupiravir) is an antiviral medication that generated $0.9 billion in revenue in 2024. It is an oral treatment designed to combat COVID-19.

What is Remicade, and what medical conditions does it treat?

Remicade (infliximab) is a monoclonal antibody that targets the cytokine TNF-alpha, generating $0.1 billion in revenue in 2024. It is used to treat a variety of autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and plaque psoriasis.

What is the primary mission of the Merck Foundation, and when was it established?

The Merck Foundation was established in 1957 with the mission to promote health equity. It has donated over $1 billion to charitable causes and supports organizations like Hilleman Laboratories for low-cost vaccine development.

How does Merck & Co. support efforts to combat onchocerciasis (river blindness)?

Merck & Co. produces Mectizan (ivermectin) specifically for donation to individuals affected by onchocerciasis in Africa, Latin America, and Yemen. This donation program has been instrumental in significantly reducing the incidence of the disease.

What were the primary health concerns associated with Vioxx, leading to its market withdrawal?

Vioxx, a pain medication, was withdrawn from the market due to findings of an increased risk of heart attack and stroke associated with its use, particularly after prolonged periods of treatment. Studies indicated a higher risk compared to other anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen.

What was the approximate total amount Merck & Co. agreed to pay to settle most Vioxx lawsuits?

Merck & Co. agreed to pay approximately $4.85 billion to settle the majority of the pending Vioxx lawsuits. This settlement was considered favorable for the company, as initial liability estimates were significantly higher.

What allegations were made against Merck & Co. regarding Fosamax, leading to lawsuits?

Merck & Co. faced lawsuits alleging that its osteoporosis drug Fosamax caused osteonecrosis of the jaw and increased the risk of thigh-bone fractures. These claims led to significant legal settlements and ongoing litigation.

What was the outcome of the Medicaid overbilling investigation against Merck & Co. in 2008?

In 2008, Merck & Co. agreed to pay over $650 million to settle charges of routinely overbilling Medicaid for its medicines. This settlement, one of the largest pharmaceutical settlements at the time, resolved allegations of fraudulent price reporting and kickbacks.

In which countries does Merck & Co. hold the trademark rights to the "Merck" name, and where does the Merck Group hold them?

Merck & Co. holds the rights to the "Merck" trademark in the United States and Canada. The Merck Group, its former German parent company, retains the rights to the "Merck" name in the rest of the world.

What health issues were revealed in 2021 to be linked to Merck's baldness drug Propecia?

A 2021 investigation revealed that Merck's baldness drug Propecia was linked to persistent sexual dysfunction in men and over 700 reported incidences of suicidal thoughts. Reports of these side effects had been received by Merck since 1998, but they were not included on the drug's label.

What environmental issue did Merck's Kelun subsidiary cause in the San Diego area in 1991?

In 1991, Merck's Kelun subsidiary was responsible for volatile organic compound (VOC) emission pollution in the San Diego area. The company later paid a $1.8 million settlement in 1996 for this pollution and implemented measures to reduce smog emissions.

Approximately how much does Merck & Co. spend annually on lobbying in the United States?

Merck & Co. spends approximately $10 million per year on lobbying activities in the United States. This expenditure supports the company's engagement with policymakers on issues relevant to the pharmaceutical industry.

What is the name of the series of medical reference books published by Merck & Co.?

Merck & Co. publishes "The Merck Manuals," a series of medical reference books. These include the "Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy," which is recognized as the world's best-selling medical reference.

What was the approximate value of Merck's acquisition of Immune Design Corp in 2019?

In April 2019, Merck acquired Immune Design Corp for approximately $300 million. This acquisition provided Merck with access to Immune Design's immunotherapy programs.

Which company, acquired by Merck in 2021, expanded its offerings in treating autoimmune diseases?

In April 2021, Merck acquired Pandion Therapeutics for $1.85 billion. This acquisition significantly expanded Merck's portfolio and capabilities in the development of treatments for autoimmune diseases.

What was the value of Merck's acquisition of Acceleron Pharma in September 2021?

Merck completed the acquisition of Acceleron Pharma in September 2021 for $11.5 billion. This strategic move brought key treatments for pulmonary hypertension, such as Sotatercept, into Merck's pipeline.

What was the value of Merck's acquisition of Prometheus Biosciences in April 2023?

In April 2023, Merck announced its intention to acquire Prometheus Biosciences Inc. for $10.8 billion. This acquisition aimed to bolster Merck's capabilities in immunology and gastroenterology.

What was the value of Merck's acquisition of Harpoon Therapeutics in January 2024?

Merck acquired Harpoon Therapeutics in January 2024 for $680 million. This acquisition enhanced Merck's portfolio of oncological drugs, particularly those targeting T-cells.

What was the value of Merck's acquisition of EyeBio in July 2024?

Merck completed the acquisition of EyeBio in July 2024 for $3 billion. This acquisition expanded Merck's presence in the ophthalmology sector.

What was the value of Merck's acquisition of Modifi Biosciences in October 2024?

In October 2024, Merck announced the acquisition of Modifi Biosciences for $1.3 billion. This move further strengthened Merck's oncology drug portfolio.

What was the significance of streptomycin's discovery by Merck in 1943?

The discovery of streptomycin by Merck in 1943 was significant because it provided the first effective treatment for tuberculosis. At the time, tuberculosis was a widespread and often fatal disease, making this discovery a major medical breakthrough.

What is ivermectin, and what conditions is it used to treat?

Ivermectin, developed by Merck scientists William C. Campbell and Satoshi Ōmura, is a medication used for veterinary and human applications. It is primarily used to treat parasitic infections such as onchocerciasis (river blindness), lymphatic filariasis, and scabies.

What was the outcome of the legal dispute in the UK High Court of Justice regarding the "Merck" name in 2016?

In 2016, the UK High Court of Justice ruled that Merck & Co. (MSD) had breached an agreement with its former parent company, Merck Group. The court determined that only Merck Group was entitled to use the "Merck" name in the United Kingdom, and that MSD's use of the name on its global websites infringed upon Merck Group's trademark rights in the UK.

What is the primary use of Welireg (Belzutifan)?

Welireg (Belzutifan) generated $0.5 billion in revenue in 2024 and is used for the treatment of von Hippel-Lindau disease-associated renal cell carcinoma. This indicates its role in treating specific types of kidney cancer linked to a genetic disorder.

What is the primary use of Janumet?

Janumet is a combination medication that generates $1.0 billion in revenue in 2024. It combines Januvia (sitagliptin) and metformin into a single pill, offering a convenient treatment option for type 2 diabetes management.

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About Merck & Co.

Corporate Identity

Merck & Co., Inc., headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey, is a prominent American multinational pharmaceutical corporation. Globally, outside the United States and Canada, it operates under the name Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD). The company is recognized as a significant player in the biomedical industry, ranking fourth globally by revenue.

Financial Standing

As of early 2024, Merck reported substantial financial figures, including revenues of approximately $64.17 billion USD. Its operational income stood at $19.94 billion USD, with a net income of $17.12 billion USD. The company's total assets were valued at $117.1 billion USD, and its total equity was $46.37 billion USD, employing around 75,000 individuals worldwide.

Global Reach and Focus

Merck's business operations span the globe, with a strategic focus on key therapeutic areas. Its revenue streams are predominantly driven by its contributions in oncology, vaccines, and animal health products. The company's commitment extends to research and development, aiming to address unmet medical needs across diverse patient populations.

Historical Trajectory

Origins and Separation

Merck & Co. traces its lineage to the Merck Group, founded in Darmstadt, Germany, in 1668. Established in 1891 as the U.S. subsidiary, it operated independently until World War I. Following U.S. entry into the war, the company was nationalized under the Trading with the Enemy Act of 1917. In 1919, it was reacquired by George F. Merck and partners, establishing its distinct identity from the German parent, though trademark disputes persist.

Scientific Milestones

The company has a rich history of scientific discovery. Key achievements include the discovery of streptomycin in 1943, the first effective tuberculosis treatment, and the development of thiazide diuretics in the 1950s. Merck scientists were instrumental in developing groundbreaking vaccines, including the mumps, rubella, and MMR vaccines, as well as the Hepatitis B and varicella vaccines, largely through the work of Dr. Maurice Hilleman.

Streptomycin (1943): First effective treatment for tuberculosis.
Thiazide Diuretics (1950s): Led to the development of chlorothiazide (Diuril).
Vaccine Development (1960s-70s): Mumps, rubella, MMR, Hepatitis B, and varicella vaccines.
Statins (1979): Discovery of lovastatin (Mevacor).
Ivermectin (1981): Developed for veterinary use, later for human parasitic diseases (Mectizan).
Carbapenems (1985): Introduction of imipenem.

Mergers and Acquisitions

Merck & Co. has strategically grown through significant mergers and acquisitions. A pivotal merger occurred in 1953 with Sharp & Dohme, Inc., solidifying its position as a leading U.S. drugmaker. Subsequent acquisitions, such as Medco Containment Services and later companies like Cubist Pharmaceuticals, Idenix Pharmaceuticals, and Acceleron Pharma, have expanded its portfolio and therapeutic reach.

Product Portfolio

Oncology

Merck is a leader in oncology, particularly with its immuno-oncology drug Keytruda (pembrolizumab), which generated $29.5 billion in revenue in 2024. Other key products include Lynparza (olaparib) for BRCA-mutated cancers, Lenvima (lenvatinib) for thyroid cancer, Welireg (belzutifan) for VHL disease-associated renal cell carcinoma, and Reblozyl (luspatercept) for anemia in specific blood disorders.

Vaccines

Vaccination remains a cornerstone of Merck's public health contributions. Gardasil (HPV vaccine) achieved $8.5 billion in 2024 revenues, significantly impacting the prevention of HPV-related cancers. The ProQuad/MMR II/Varivax combination vaccine, Vaxneuvance (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine), RotaTeq (rotavirus vaccine), and Pneumovax 23 also represent substantial offerings in disease prevention.

Hospital Acute Care

In hospital settings, Merck provides critical treatments such as Bridion (sugammadex) for neuromuscular blockade reversal ($1.7 billion in 2024), Prevymis (letermovir) for cytomegalovirus infections, Dificid (fidaxomicin) for C. difficile infections, Zerbaxa (ceftolozane/tazobactam) for complicated infections, and Noxafil (posaconazole) for fungal infections.

Cardiology & Neuroscience

Merck addresses cardiovascular and neurological conditions with products like Winrevair (sotatercept) and Adempas/Verquvo (riociguat/vericiguat) for pulmonary hypertension. In neuroscience, Belsomra (suvorexant) is used for insomnia treatment.

Virology & Immunology

The company offers antiviral treatments like Lagevrio (molnupiravir) for COVID-19 and Isentress (raltegravir) for HIV. Its immunology portfolio includes Simponi (golimumab) and Remicade (infliximab), crucial for managing autoimmune diseases.

Diabetes & Animal Health

Merck's diabetes treatments include Januvia (sitagliptin) and Janumet (sitagliptin/metformin). The Animal Health division provides a wide range of products for livestock and companion animals, contributing significantly to global animal welfare and food security.

Commitment to Global Health

Merck Foundation

Established in 1957, the Merck Foundation has dedicated over $1 billion to charitable causes, focusing on promoting health equity. Its initiatives support access to essential medicines and healthcare services, particularly in underserved regions.

Access Programs

Merck operates robust patient assistance programs to ensure individuals unable to afford its medications can still access vital treatments. Additionally, it provides significant funding to Hilleman Laboratories, an organization focused on developing cost-effective vaccines for developing countries.

Maternal Health & Parasitic Diseases

The "Merck for Mothers" initiative specifically targets the reduction of maternal mortality worldwide. Furthermore, the company's long-standing commitment to donating Mectizan (ivermectin) has been instrumental in combating parasitic diseases like onchocerciasis (river blindness) in Africa, Latin America, and Yemen.

Challenges and Scrutiny

Vioxx Cardiovascular Risks

The withdrawal of Vioxx (rofecoxib) in 2004 due to increased risks of heart attack and stroke led to significant controversy. Merck faced thousands of lawsuits, ultimately agreeing to a $4.85 billion settlement to resolve most claims. Internal documents suggested Merck was aware of potential risks and engaged in aggressive marketing tactics.

Fosamax Litigation

Merck has faced extensive litigation concerning its osteoporosis drug Fosamax (alendronate). Lawsuits alleged links to osteonecrosis of the jaw and thigh bone fractures. While Merck achieved some legal victories, numerous cases remained pending, highlighting ongoing legal challenges related to product safety disclosures.

Regulatory and Legal Issues

The company has settled significant claims for Medicaid overbilling, paying over $650 million in 2008. Furthermore, the persistent legal dispute over the "Merck" name with the German Merck Group has involved international litigation, impacting brand usage and market presence.

Propecia Side Effects

An investigation revealed reports linking Merck's hair-loss drug Propecia (finasteride) to persistent sexual dysfunction and suicidal thoughts. Concerns were raised about Merck's failure to adequately disclose these risks on product labeling, leading to consumer protection lawsuits.

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References

Arizona gets $2.3 Million from Vioxx Settlement 92.3 KTAR Retrieved May 19, 2008

A full list of references for this article are available at the Merck & Co. Wikipedia page

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This content has been generated by an AI model and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is based on publicly available data and may not be exhaustive, fully accurate, or entirely up-to-date.

This is not medical advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it due to information obtained from this resource.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Merck & Co.: A Legacy of Healing and Innovation

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

About Merck & Co. ⚕️

🏢 Corporate Identity

📈 Financial Standing

🌐 Global Reach and Focus

Historical Trajectory ⏳

🌱 Origins and Separation

🔬 Scientific Milestones

🤝 Mergers and Acquisitions

Product Portfolio 💊

🔬 Oncology

💉 Vaccines

🏥 Hospital Acute Care

❤️ Cardiology & Neuroscience

🦠 Virology & Immunology

🩸 Diabetes & Animal Health

Commitment to Global Health ❤️

🌍 Merck Foundation

🤝 Access Programs

🤰 Maternal Health & Parasitic Diseases

Challenges and Scrutiny ⚖️

💔 Vioxx Cardiovascular Risks

🦴 Fosamax Litigation

⚖️ Regulatory and Legal Issues

🧠 Propecia Side Effects

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About Merck & Co.

Corporate Identity

Financial Standing

Global Reach and Focus

Historical Trajectory

Origins and Separation

Scientific Milestones

Mergers and Acquisitions

Product Portfolio

Oncology

Vaccines

Hospital Acute Care

Cardiology & Neuroscience

Virology & Immunology

Diabetes & Animal Health

Commitment to Global Health

Merck Foundation

Access Programs

Maternal Health & Parasitic Diseases

Challenges and Scrutiny

Vioxx Cardiovascular Risks

Fosamax Litigation

Regulatory and Legal Issues

Propecia Side Effects

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice