Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis (NYSE: NVS) has reported an 11% year-on-year (YOY) increase in constant currency terms during the first quarter of 2024, reaching USD 11.8 billion in sales. The growth was driven by strong performances across all key brands and geographies.
The top-selling and growth-driving drugs included hypertension therapy Entresto (valsartan + sacubitril) with USD 1.9 billion after a 36% YOY increase, immunomodulator Cosentyx (secukinumab) at USD 1.3 billion after a 25% rise, multiple sclerosis treatment Kesimpta (ofatumumab) which grew 66% to USD 637 million, and breast cancer drug Kisqali (ribociclib) at USD 627 million, up 54%.
Emerging growth markets experienced a surge of 21%, with China, a priority geography, seeing a remarkable 31% increase to USD 1.0 billion in sales. Entresto’s increased penetration in hypertension and Cosentyx’s leadership as the top originator biologic in the IL-17 class in China contributed to this growth. Additionally, Kisqali’s entry into the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) in Q1 presents further growth potential. There is also sustained strong early uptake for cardiovascular drug Leqvio (inclisiran) in the self-pay market, with anticipation for its National Drug Reimbursement List (NDRL) listing in 2025. Novartis is planning a manufacturing site in China for radioligand therapies (RLT) Pluvicto (lutetium Lu 177 vipivotide tetraxetan) and Lutathera (lutetium Lu 177 dotatate).
However, Novartis anticipates the entry of generics for top-seller Entresto in China next year, which could impact sales.- Flcube.com
