Bloomberg Talks cover image

Bloomberg Talks

Merck CEO Rob Davis Talks Winrevair Approval

Mar 28, 2024
Merck CEO Rob Davis discusses the approval of Winrevair for high blood pressure. Topics include FDA approval, strategic portfolio diversification for diseases like fatty liver, and analysis of healthcare costs and drug pricing disparities between the US, Europe, and the UK.
06:21

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Merck's Winrevair approval addresses pulmonary arterial hypertension, a rare and fatal disease affecting mostly middle-aged women.
  • Merck's focus on GLP1 glucagon dual agonist signals a shift towards treating obesity-related comorbidities with broader health outcomes.

Deep dives

Merck's Breakthrough in Treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Merck has achieved significant progress with FDA approval for a novel drug targeting pulmonary arterial hypertension, a devastating and rare disease primarily affecting women aged 30 to 60 with high mortality rates. The newly approved biologic medication called Winrever offers a unique mechanism of action by potentially remodeling blood vessels in the lungs, addressing the thickening and narrowing caused by PAH. Administered via a subcutaneous injection every three weeks, the drug signifies a crucial advancement in Merck's cardiovascular and metabolic portfolio, showcasing the company's commitment to diversification beyond oncology and vaccines.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner