Story perspectives

Merck's Keytruda Faces Competition Amid Controversial New Shot

9/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Merck's Keytruda, the leading cancer drug, may face competition by 2028, threatening billions in sales.
To sustain revenue, Merck launched a new FDA-approved shot, marketed as quicker and easier than infusions.
Senators Warren and Sanders accuse Merck of patent abuse through "product hopping" to maintain high prices.
While the shot reduces administration time from 30 minutes to about 2 minutes, critics claim it lacks significant therapeutic benefits.
Medicare's price negotiations for Keytruda are postponed until 2029, impacting potential cost reductions.

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Story summary

Merck's Keytruda, the leading cancer drug, may face competition by 2028, threatening billions in sales.
To sustain revenue, Merck launched a new FDA-approved shot, marketed as quicker and easier than infusions.
Senators Warren and Sanders accuse Merck of patent abuse through "product hopping" to maintain high prices.
While the shot reduces administration time from 30 minutes to about 2 minutes, critics claim it lacks significant therapeutic benefits.
Medicare's price negotiations for Keytruda are postponed until 2029, impacting potential cost reductions.