Denmark-based biopharmaceutical company H. Lundbeck A/S (OTCMKTS: HLBBF) has released its financial report for the H1 2023 period, reporting a 10% year-on-year (YOY) increase in sales revenues in constant exchange rate terms, reaching DKK 10 billion (USD 1.45 billion) over the six-month period. CEO Deborah Dunsire celebrated the “excellent performance,” which marked a new record for H1 revenues.
Vyepti’s Rapid Growth and Other Portfolio Highlights
Migraine drug Vyepti (eptinezumab) emerged as the fastest-growing product in Lundbeck’s portfolio. Launched in the US and globally from 2020 onwards, H1’23 growth reached 91% YOY, amounting to DKK 757 million (USD 110 million). Other notable growth came from major depressive disorder therapy Brintellix/Trintellix (vortioxetine), which grew by 6% to DKK 2.156 billion (USD 313.5 million); depression and schizophrenia drug Rexulti/Rxulti (brexpiprazole), with an 18% increase to DKK 2.135 billion (USD 310.5 million); and antipsychotic drug Abilify Maintena/Asimtufii (aripiprazole), expanding sales by 14% YOY to DKK 1,584 million (USD 230 million).
Rexulti’s Alzheimer’s-Related Dementia Indication and FDA Approval
Significantly, during H1’23, Rexulti, co-developed with partner Otsuka Pharmaceutical, was launched as a treatment for agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease (AADDA), a potential blockbuster indication. Rexulti is the first and only drug to receive FDA approval for this specific indication.
Leadership Transition at Lundbeck
Deborah Dunsire, who has overseen a shift in Lundbeck’s portfolio towards more innovative drug development, is hosting her final financial report presentations. She is set to step down from her position as President and CEO of Lundbeck from September 1, 2023. Charl van Zyl is poised to take over the role, leaving his position as executive vice-president and head of neurology for Europe and international markets at UCB S.A. (Euronext:UCB).-Fineline Info & Tech
