Merck's HPV Vaccine Gains Ground in China

U.S. drugmaker Merck & Co has received approval in China for its HPV vaccine's use in males, expanding its market reach despite earlier weak sales in the region. This move marks a potential growth opportunity as Gardasil has been key to Merck's market strategy alongside cancer treatment Keytruda.

In a strategic move, U.S. pharmaceutical giant Merck & Co announced that its human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, Gardasil, has secured approval from China's medical products administration for use in males aged 9-26 years.

This development comes after Merck reported sluggish Gardasil sales in China, projecting such trends may persist until 2025 due to lackluster demand among women. The latest approval could signal a turning point for the company in a crucial market.

Gardasil, a top performer for Merck alongside the cancer-fighting drug Keytruda, has been pivotal in the company's international growth strategy, particularly within China.

(With inputs from agencies.)