AMGEN REPORTS FIRST QUARTER 2022 FINANCIAL RESULTS

On April 27, 2022 Amgen (NASDAQ: AMGN) reported financial results for the first quarter of 2022 (Press release, Amgen, APR 27, 2022, View Source [SID1234613033]). Key results include:

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Total revenues increased 6% to $6.2 billion in comparison to the first quarter of 2021, resulting from 2% growth in global product sales and increased Other Revenue from our COVID-19 manufacturing collaboration.
Volumes grew double-digits for a number of products including Repatha (evolocumab), Prolia (denosumab) and EVENITY (romosozumab-aqqg).
GAAP earnings per share (EPS) decreased 5% to $2.68 driven by a decrease in other (expense) income, net, partially offset by increased revenues and lower weighted-average shares outstanding. The decrease in other (expense) income, net, was primarily driven by net losses recognized on our strategic equity investments in the current year compared with net gains recognized in the prior year.
GAAP operating income increased 17% to $2.5 billion, and GAAP operating margin increased 5.5 percentage points to 43.6%.
Non-GAAP EPS increased 15% to $4.25, driven by increased revenues and lower weighted-average shares outstanding.
Non-GAAP operating income increased 10% to $3.1 billion, and non-GAAP operating margin increased 3.6 percentage points to 54.8%.
The Company generated $2.0 billion of free cash flow for the first quarter versus $1.9 billion in the first quarter of 2021.
2022 total revenues guidance reaffirmed at $25.4-$26.5 billion; EPS guidance revised to $12.53-$13.58 on a GAAP basis, and reaffirmed at $17.00-$18.00 on a non-GAAP basis.
Amgen will vigorously contest the adjustments and penalties proposed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for the 2010-15 period as discussed in more detail on pages 7-8 of this release. Amgen is confident in its position in the dispute, and in the level of reserves the Company has established.
"We achieved strong, volume-driven growth in the quarter, while launching two very promising first-in-class medicines," said Robert A. Bradway, chairman and chief executive officer. "We are also advancing a robust pipeline with data for several mid-to-late stage candidates expected during the year."

$Millions, except EPS, dividends paid per share and
percentages

References in this release to "non-GAAP" measures, measures presented "on a non-GAAP basis" and "free cash flow" (computed by subtracting capital expenditures from operating cash flow) refer to non-GAAP financial measures. Adjustments to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures and other items are presented on the attached reconciliations. Refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures below for further discussion.

Product Sales Performance

Total product sales increased 2% for the first quarter of 2022 versus the first quarter of 2021. Unit volumes grew 9%, offset by 7% lower net selling price and 2% negative impact from foreign exchange, and sales in the first quarter benefited 2% ($110 million) from year-over-year favorable changes to estimated sales deductions. Consistent with prior years, Enbrel (etanercept) and Otezla (apremilast) followed the pattern of lower Q1 sales relative to the remainder of the year due to the impact of benefit plan changes, insurance reverifications and increased co-pay expenses as U.S. patients work through deductibles.

COVID-19 continued to affect our business around the world in the first quarter. In March and April, we have seen the impact of the pandemic recede in the U.S., which has led to improved demand patterns and allowed us to engage in increased field-facing activities.

General Medicine

Prolia sales increased 12% year-over-year for the first quarter, driven by 10% volume growth and higher net selling price.

EVENITY sales increased 59% year-over-year to a record $170 million for the first quarter, driven by strong volume growth across our markets. U.S. sales grew 93% year-over-year, driven by 79% volume growth.

Repatha sales increased 15% year-over-year for the first quarter, driven by 49% volume growth partially offset by lower net selling price. Sales grew 19% in the U.S., driven by 41% volume growth partially offset by lower net selling prices resulting from higher rebates to support and expand access for patients. Sales grew 12% outside the U.S., with 57% volume growth partially offset by lower net selling price primarily driven by the inclusion of Repatha on China’s National Reimbursement Drug List as of January 1, 2022. Repatha remains the global proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) segment leader, with over 1 million patients treated since launch.

Aimovig (erenumab-aooe) sales increased 53% year-over-year for the first quarter, driven by favorable changes to estimated sales deductions and higher net selling price, partially offset by a 4% decline in volume.

Inflammation

TEZSPIRE (tezepelumab-ekko) generated sales of $7 million for the first quarter. TEZSPIRE has been well received by prescribers, with initial adoption by both allergists and pulmonologists. Healthcare providers have welcomed the product’s novel approach to treating the approximately 2.5 million worldwide patients with severe asthma who are uncontrolled or biologic eligible, without any phenotypic and biomarker limitation.

Otezla (apremilast) sales decreased 5% year-over-year for the first quarter, primarily driven by lower net selling price and lower inventory levels, partially offset by 7% volume growth. In the U.S., we saw strengthening of the market, with Otezla remaining the market share leader among patients who are new to systemic agents for psoriasis. U.S. sales were impacted in the first quarter as both wholesalers and specialty pharmacies reduced inventory levels. Otezla sales in the U.S. were also impacted by price declines in the first quarter, driven primarily by enhancements to our co-pay and patient assistance programs to support new patients starting treatment as well as additional rebates to improve the quality of coverage. Going forward, we expect continued strong volume growth and lower year-over-year price erosion for the remaining quarters of 2022.

Enbrel (etanercept) sales decreased 7% year-over-year for the first quarter, driven by declines in net selling price and inventory levels. Year-over-year volume remained flat in the first quarter, supported by Enbrel’s long track record of efficacy and safety.

AMGEVITA (adalimumab) sales increased 2% year-over-year for the first quarter, driven by 16% volume growth, partially offset by foreign exchange impact and lower net selling price resulting from increased competition. AMGEVITA continues to be the most prescribed adalimumab biosimilar in Europe.
Hematology-Oncology

LUMAKRAS/LUMYKRAS (sotorasib) generated $62 million of sales for the first quarter, representing 38% quarter-over-quarter growth. In the U.S., LUMAKRAS has been prescribed to approximately 2,500 patients by over 1,500 physicians in both academic and community settings. Outside the U.S., LUMYKRAS has now been approved in nearly 40 countries around the world, with recent reimbursement approvals in the United Kingdom and Japan.

KYPROLIS (carfilzomib) sales increased 14% year-over-year for the first quarter, driven by 13% volume growth.

XGEVA (denosumab) sales increased 7% year-over-year for the first quarter, driven by favorable changes to estimated sales deductions and higher net selling price, partially offset by a 2% decline in volume growth.

Vectibix (panitumumab) sales increased 5% year-over-year for the first quarter, driven by volume growth in ex-US markets. Vectibix remains the EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) inhibitor of choice across all lines of therapy.

Nplate (romiplostim) sales increased 17% year-over-year for the first quarter, driven by 7% volume growth and favorable changes to estimated sales deductions.

BLINCYTO (blinatumomab) sales increased 29% year-over-year for the first quarter, driven by volume growth.

MVASI sales decreased 17% year-over-year for the first quarter, primarily driven by lower net selling price that was partially offset by 13% volume growth. In the U.S., MVASI continues to hold leading volume share with 49% of the bevacizumab segment in the quarter. For the full-year, we expect continued net selling price erosion and volume declines driven by increased competition and Average Selling Price (ASP) erosion.

KANJINTI (trastuzumab-anns) sales decreased 40% year-over-year for the first quarter, primarily driven by declines in net selling price and volume. In the U.S., KANJINTI continues to hold leading volume share with 39% of the trastuzumab segment in the quarter. Going forward, we expect continued net selling price deterioration and volume declines driven by increased competition and ASP erosion.
Established Products

Total sales of our established products, which include Neulasta (pegfilgrastim), NEUPOGEN (filgrastim), EPOGEN (epoetin alfa), Aranesp (darbepotein alfa), Parsabiv (etelcalcetide), and Sensipar/Mimpara (cinacalcet), decreased 12% year-over-year for the first quarter, primarily driven by lower net selling price and volume declines. In the aggregate, we expect the year-over-year net price and volume erosion for this portfolio of products to continue.
Product Sales Detail by Product and Geographic Region


* Change in excess of 100%


** Other products includes Corlanor, GENSENTA, IMLYGIC, AVSOLA, Bergamo, and RIABNI

Operating Expense, Operating Margin and Tax Rate Analysis

On a GAAP basis:

Total Operating Expenses decreased 1%. Cost of Sales margin increased 0.6 percentage points primarily driven by manufacturing cost, including COVID-19 antibody manufacturing, and increased royalties and profit share, partially offset by lower amortization expenses from acquisition-related assets. Research & Development (R&D) expenses decreased 1%. The first quarter of 2021 included $53 million related to the Rodeo Therapeutics acquisition. Selling, General & Administrative (SG&A) expenses decreased 2%.
Operating Margin as a percentage of product sales increased 5.5 percentage points to 43.6%.
Tax Rate increased 0.5 percentage points primarily driven by current year net unfavorable items compared to last year partially offset by changes in earnings mix.
On a non-GAAP basis:

Total Operating Expenses increased 2%. Cost of Sales margin increased 1.1 percentage points primarily driven by manufacturing cost, including COVID-19 antibody manufacturing, and increased royalties and profit share. R&D expenses decreased 1%. The first quarter of 2021 included $53 million related to the Rodeo Therapeutics acquisition. SG&A expenses decreased 1%.
Operating Margin as a percentage of product sales increased 3.6 percentage points to 54.8%.
Tax Rate increased 0.5 percentage points primarily driven by current year net unfavorable items compared to last year partially offset by changes in earnings mix.
$Millions, except percentages


Cash Flow and Balance Sheet

The Company generated $2.0 billion of free cash flow in the first quarter of 2022 versus $1.9 billion in the first quarter of 2021.
The Company’s first quarter 2022 dividend of $1.94 per share was declared on December 3, 2021, and was paid on March 8, 2022, to all stockholders of record as of February 15, 2022, representing a 10% increase from 2021.
On February 24, 2022, the Company entered into Accelerated Stock Repurchase (ASR) agreements to repurchase an aggregate of up to $6 billion of the Company’s common stock with an initial 23.3 million shares received and retired. The final number of shares to be repurchased by the Company under the ASR will be based on the daily volume-weighted average stock price of the Company’s common stock, subject to the terms of the ASR agreements. In total, the Company repurchased 24.6 million shares of common stock at a total cost of $6.3 billion during the first quarter of 2022, including shares received under the ASR agreements.
Cash and investments totaled $6.5 billion and debt outstanding totaled $36.9 billion as of March 31, 2022.
$Billions, except shares


2022 Guidance

For the full year 2022, the Company now expects:

Total revenues in the range of $25.4 billion to $26.5 billion.
On a GAAP basis, EPS in the range of $12.53 to $13.58 and a tax rate in the range of 10.5% to 12.0%.
On a non-GAAP basis, EPS in the range of $17.00 to $18.00 and a tax rate in the range of 13.5% to 14.5%.
Capital expenditures to be approximately $950 million.
Share repurchases in the range of $6.0 billion to $7.0 billion.
U.S. Tax Petition

On April 18, 2022, Amgen received a notice of deficiency from the IRS for the 2013-2015 period proposing adjustments primarily related to the allocation of profits between certain of the Company’s entities in the United States and the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico similar to those previously proposed by the IRS for the 2010-2012 period. This notice seeks to increase Amgen’s U.S. taxable income for the 2013-2015 period by an amount that would result in additional federal tax of approximately $5.1 billion, plus interest. In addition, the notice proposes penalties of approximately $2 billion.

Amgen firmly believes that the adjustments proposed by the IRS for the 2010-2015 period and the penalties proposed by the IRS for the 2013-2015 period are without merit:

Puerto Rico is the site of the Company’s flagship manufacturing complex responsible for the majority of Amgen’s global manufacturing. Amgen has had a substantial manufacturing presence in Puerto Rico for 30 years, and the Company’s Puerto Rico subsidiary produces sophisticated biologic medicines for millions of patients around the world. The many valuable contributions of the Company’s Puerto Rico subsidiary include the effort and expertise of its 2,400 highly skilled staff members, the nearly $4 billion in capital investments it has made on the Island, the valuable assets it possesses, and the significant risks it has assumed in connection with its business. It is through these investments that Amgen has been able to meet the needs of every patient, every time.
Amgen’s allocation of profit between its U.S. and Puerto Rico entities appropriately recognizes the key contributions made by the Company’s Puerto Rico subsidiary. The IRS position fails to adequately account for the importance of these value drivers. The proposed adjustments would result in Amgen’s Puerto Rico subsidiary earning little or no profit from its operations despite the value of and risk associated with its contributions.
The IRS audited Amgen at length for many years on the allocation of profit between the U.S. and Puerto Rico. These audits were resolved through agreements with the IRS, resulting in no financial statement detriment to the Company. Refer to Footnote 5, Income Taxes, in Amgen’s 2007 and 2008 Form 10-K filings, and Footnote 4, Income Taxes, in Amgen’s 2012 and 2013 Form 10-K filings.
Further, the amount of the adjustments proposed by the IRS for the 2010-2015 period overstates by billions of dollars the magnitude of the dispute:

Amgen believes, based upon the positions advanced by the IRS, that the IRS adjustments for the 2010-2015 period are overstated by approximately $2 billion due to the IRS failure to account for certain income and expenses. Amgen has reported its income and expenses in a consistent manner for many years and the IRS has appropriately accounted for the Company’s income and expenses in all prior audits.
Any additional tax that could be imposed for the 2010-2015 period would be reduced by up to approximately $3.1 billion of repatriation tax previously accrued with respect to the Company’s Puerto Rico earnings.
Amgen previously made advance tax deposits to the IRS totaling $1.1 billion for the 2010-2015 period. These deposits would further reduce any additional cash tax that could be imposed.
In addition, Amgen believes the IRS assertion of approximately $2 billion in penalties for the 2013-2015 period is wholly unwarranted. Amgen has applied a consistent transfer pricing methodology since 2002, has documented that transfer pricing methodology as required under relevant tax regulations, and has extensively discussed that methodology with the IRS across multiple tax audits over multiple years. The IRS has never previously proposed transfer pricing penalties.

Amgen believes that the Company has appropriate tax reserves. The Company filed a petition in the U.S. Tax Court in July 2021 to contest the adjustments previously proposed for the 2010-2012 period and plans to file another petition in the U.S. Tax Court to contest the adjustments proposed in the notice for the 2013-2015 period. Amgen will seek consolidation of the two periods into one case in Tax Court. The dispute is expected to take several years to resolve.

The IRS is currently auditing the 2016-2018 period. Amgen expects the audit to continue for several years, and it is possible the 2010-2015 dispute will be resolved before the conclusion of the 2016-2018 audit and administrative appeals process. Any transfer pricing adjustments the IRS may propose for this period will be lessened by the change in tax rates resulting from the 2017 tax reform law, which reduced the difference between the tax rates applicable in the U.S. and Puerto Rico by approximately two thirds beginning in 2018.

First Quarter Product and Pipeline Update

The Company provided the following updates on selected product and pipeline programs:

Inflammation

TEZSPIRE

In February, data were presented at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Annual meeting that demonstrated reductions in the annualized asthma exacerbation rate across biomarker subgroups of patients with severe asthma and consistent efficacy throughout the year, regardless of season.
The WAYFINDER Phase 3b study, designed to demonstrate a reduction in oral corticosteroid use in adult participants with severe asthma on long-term oral corticosteroid therapy, was initiated.
The PASSAGE Phase 4 real-world effectiveness study was initiated in adult and adolescent participants with severe asthma, including underrepresented populations such as Black Americans, smokers and patients with asthma-chronic obstructive pulmonary disease overlap.
A Phase 3 study continues to enroll patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.
Planning is underway for a Phase 3 study in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis.
A Phase 2b study continues to enroll patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria.
A Phase 2 study continues to enroll patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Otezla

In March, data were presented at the American Academy of Dermatology Association meeting. Among others, the Company presented new results from both the ADVANCE and PROMINENT Phase 3 studies reinforcing the efficacy of Otezla in patients with mild to moderate plaque psoriasis, and results from the Phase 2 Japanese trial (PPP-001) in palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP). Results from PPP-001 indicated that Otezla was associated with statistically significant improvements in the primary endpoint and all secondary endpoints vs. placebo.
In March, a Phase 3 study for the treatment of Japanese patients with PPP was initiated.
Rocatinlimab (AMG 451 / KHK4083)

Phase 3 planning continues for rocatinlimab, an anti-OX40 monoclonal antibody being investigated in patients with heterogeneous moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.
Rocatinlimab binds activated pathogenic T-cells expressing OX40. Through its unique mechanism of action, rocatinlimab inhibits and prevents the expansion of activated pathogenic T-cells, and reduces their number.
Initiation of the comprehensive ROCKET Phase 3 program is anticipated in mid-2022.
Rozibafusp alfa (AMG 570)

A Phase 2b study of rozibafusp alfa, an antibody-peptide conjugate that simultaneously blocks inducible T-cell costimulatory ligand (ICOSL) and B-cell activating factor (BAFF) activity, continues to enroll patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Efavaleukin alfa (AMG 592)

A Phase 2b study of efavaleukin alfa, an interleukin-2 (IL-2) mutein Fc fusion protein, continues to enroll patients with SLE while a Phase 2 study continues to enroll patients with ulcerative colitis.
Ordesekimab (AMG 714 / PRV-015)

A Phase 2b study of AMG 714, a monoclonal antibody that binds interleukin-15 (IL-15), continues to enroll patients with nonresponsive celiac disease.
Oncology

LUMAKRAS/LUMYKRAS

LUMAKRAS/LUMYKRAS is now approved in nearly 40 countries for the treatment of adults with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with KRAS G12C mutation and who have progressed after at least one prior line of systemic therapy. Regulatory reviews continue in other jurisdictions.
In April, data were presented at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) (Free AACR Whitepaper) annual meeting on the long-term outcomes from a two-year analysis of the CodeBreak 100 trial in patients with KRAS G12C-mutated advanced NSCLC. These data showed that 32.5% of patients were still alive at two years and that prolonged tumor response was also observed with a 40.7% objective response rate by central review. There were no new safety signals reported over the course of this 2-year follow-up analysis.
In February, data were presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) plenary series demonstrating a centrally confirmed objective response rate of 21% and disease control rate of 84% in 38 patients with heavily pre-treated advanced pancreatic cancer. The Company continues to explore the benefit of LUMAKRAS in this setting.
Initial data from cohorts exploring LUMAKRAS in combination with the anti-programmed cell death 1 protein (PD-1) antibody pembrolizumab in patients with KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC were submitted to a medical congress taking place in the late summer.
Initial data from cohorts exploring LUMAKRAS in combination with the Src homology-2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase-2 (SHP2) inhibitor RMC-4630 from Revolution Medicines in patients with KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC were submitted to a medical congress taking place in the late summer.
Top-line results from the event-driven, confirmatory Phase 3 study comparing LUMAKRAS to docetaxel in patients with KRAS G12C-mutated advanced NSCLC are expected in Q3-2022.
Top-line results from a study comparing the 960 mg/day dose of LUMAKRAS with a lower dose of 240 mg/day in patients with KRAS G12C-mutated advanced NSCLC are expected in Q4-2022.
A Phase 2 study in first-line patients with KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC whose tumors express serine/threonine kinase 11 (STK11) mutations and/or less than 1% programmed death-ligand 1 continues to enroll.
A Phase 3 study of LUMAKRAS in combination with Vectibix in third-line KRAS G12C-mutated colorectal cancer is enrolling patients.
Bemarituzumab

A Phase 3 study (FORTITUDE-101) of bemarituzumab, a fibroblast growth factor receptor 2b (FGFR2b) targeting monoclonal antibody plus chemotherapy, versus placebo plus chemotherapy in first-line gastric cancer with FGFR2b overexpression continues to enroll patients.
A Phase 1b/3 study (FORTITUDE-102) of bemarituzumab plus chemotherapy and nivolumab versus chemotherapy and nivolumab in first-line gastric cancer with FGFR2b overexpression continues to enroll patients.
A Phase 1b study (FORTITUDE-103) of bemarituzumab plus oral chemotherapy regimens in first-line gastric cancer with FGFR2b overexpression was initiated.
A Phase 1b study (FORTITUDE-201) of bemarituzumab monotherapy and in combination with docetaxel is enrolling patients with squamous NSCLC with FGFR2b overexpression.
Planning is underway for a signal-seeking basket study in other solid tumors.
Tarlatamab (AMG 757)

DeLLphi-301, a potentially registrational Phase 2 study of tarlatamab, an HLE BiTE molecule targeting delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3), for the treatment of relapsed/refractory small cell lung cancer (SCLC) after two or more prior lines of treatment continues to enroll patients.
A Phase 1b study of tarlatamab in combination with AMG 404 continues to enroll patients with second-line or later SCLC.
DeLLphi-303, a Phase 1b study, testing tarlatamab in combination with standard of care in first-line SCLC, is on track to start enrolling patients this quarter.
Updated exploration and first expansion Phase 1 data of tarlatamab in patients with relapsed/refractory SCLC were submitted to a medical congress taking place in late summer.
A Phase 1b study of tarlatamab continues to enroll patients with de novo or treatment emergent neuroendocrine prostate cancer.
Acapatamab (AMG 160)

Data continue to mature in a dose-expansion cohort of acapatamab, a half-life extended (HLE) BiTE molecule targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) for the treatment of patients with metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Decision-enabling data are expected in H1 2022.
A master protocol evaluating combinations with acapatamab continues to enroll patients with earlier-line mCRPC.
AMG 340

A Phase 1 dose-escalation study of AMG 340, a lower T-cell affinity BiTE molecule targeting PSMA, is enrolling patients with mCRPC.
AMG 509

A Phase 1 dose-escalation study of AMG 509, a bi-specific molecule targeting six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 1 (STEAP1) continues to enroll patients with mCRPC.
AMG 193

A Phase 1/1b/2 study of AMG 193, a novel small-molecule methylthioadenosine (MTA) cooperative protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) molecular glue, continues to enroll patients with advanced methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP)-null solid tumors.
AMG 330

Development of AMG 330, a BiTE molecule targeting CD33, being investigated for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has been discontinued based on the overall benefit:risk profile observed and the Company’s on-going efforts to prioritize programs with the greatest potential benefit to AML patients. These on-going programs include AMG 176, a small-molecule inhibitor of myeloid cell leukemia 1 (MCL-1) and AMG 427, an HLE BiTE molecule targeting anti-fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3).
General Medicine

Repatha

In April, the Company announced results from two Repatha open label extension (OLE) studies (FOURIER-OLE) designed to assess the long-term safety and tolerability of Repatha in more than 6,600 high-risk adults with clinically evident atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
In the OLE studies, patients received Repatha for approximately 5 years, with some patients receiving Repatha for up to 8.5 years in aggregate across the FOURIER and OLE studies.
No new long-term safety findings were observed.
Medically significant and sustained reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were observed, with more than 85 percent of patients achieving an LDL-C level of <40 mg/dL during the OLE period.
The results of these studies will be presented at an upcoming medical congress later this year.
Olpasiran (AMG 890)

Top-line results from a Phase 2 study of olpasiran, a lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) small interfering RNA molecule, in subjects with elevated Lp(a), are expected in H1 2022. Presentation of results is expected at a medical congress in H2 2022.
AMG 133

A Phase 1 study of AMG 133, a multispecific that inhibits the gastric inhibitory polypeptide receptor (GIPR) and activates the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor, continues to enroll patients in the multidose portion of the study.
Biosimilars

In April, the Company announced preliminary results from a Phase 3 study evaluating the efficacy and safety of ABP 654 compared to STELARA (ustekinumab) in adult patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. The study met the primary efficacy endpoint, demonstrating no clinically meaningful differences between ABP 654 and STELARA.
A Phase 3 study to support an interchangeability designation in the U.S. for ABP 654 is ongoing.
Phase 3 studies of ABP 938, an investigational biosimilar to EYLEA (aflibercept), and ABP 959, an investigational biosimilar to SOLIRIS (eculizumab), are on track, with data expected in 2022.
A Phase 3 study to support an interchangeability designation in the U.S. for AMJEVITA (adalimumab-atto) is enrolling patients.
Environmental, Social & Governance Report Released Today

Amgen today released its latest Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) report at amgen.com/responsibility, providing a comprehensive overview of the many ways the Company is building a better, healthier world. The report tracks the Company’s progress across four categories:

Healthy People: Focusing on removing barriers that limit equitable access to healthcare so that people can live their healthiest lives. In 2021, for example, the Amgen Safety Net Foundation1 provided $2.2 billion2 of the Company’s medicines, at no cost, to uninsured or underinsured patients in the U.S.
Healthy Society: Working toward a more just society for our employees and the people we serve. In 2021, no-cost science education programs funded by the Amgen Foundation1 reached more than 27 million students and educators globally, helping to level the scientific playing field.
Healthy Planet: Prioritizing sustainability and aiming to minimize our environmental impact. Amgen continued its progress in 2021 toward the goal of achieving carbon neutrality in our operations by 20273.
Healthy Amgen: Holding ourselves to high standards in the Company’s operations – working to ensure that our actions and culture reflect Amgen values. In 2021, and again in 2022, Amgen added an ESG goal to our annual incentive plans to focus our entire Company on activities supporting achievement of our 2027 environment sustainability targets and to strengthen and improve the Company’s diversity, inclusion, and belonging efforts.
1 Amgen Safety Net Foundation and The Amgen Foundation, Inc. are separate legal entities entirely funded by Amgen.
2 Valued at Wholesale Acquisition Cost.
3 Carbon neutrality goal refers to Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

TEZSPIRE is being developed in collaboration with AstraZeneca.
Rocatinlimab, formerly AMG 451 / KHK4083 is being developed in collaboration with Kyowa Kirin.
Ordesekimab formerly AMG 714 and also known as PRV-015 is being developed in collaboration with Provention Bio.
AMG 509 is being developed in collaboration with Xencor.
STELARA is a registered trademark of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV.
EYLEA is a registered trademark of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
SOLIRIS is a registered trademark of Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures
In this news release, management has presented its operating results for the first quarters of 2022 and 2021, in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and on a non-GAAP basis. In addition, management has presented its full year 2022 EPS and tax guidance in accordance with GAAP and on a non-GAAP basis. These non-GAAP financial measures are computed by excluding certain items related to acquisitions, restructuring and certain other items from the related GAAP financial measures. Reconciliations for these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are included in the news release. Management has also presented Free Cash Flow (FCF), which is a non-GAAP financial measure, for the first quarters of 2022 and 2021. FCF is computed by subtracting capital expenditures from operating cash flow, each as determined in accordance with GAAP.

The Company believes that its presentation of non-GAAP financial measures provides useful supplementary information to and facilitates additional analysis by investors. The Company uses certain non-GAAP financial measures to enhance an investor’s overall understanding of the financial performance and prospects for the future of the Company’s ongoing business activities by facilitating comparisons of results of ongoing business operations among current, past and future periods. The Company believes that FCF provides a further measure of the Company’s liquidity.

The Company uses the non-GAAP financial measures set forth in the news release in connection with its own budgeting and financial planning internally to evaluate the performance of the business, including to allocate resources and to evaluate results relative to incentive compensation targets. The non-GAAP financial measures are in addition to, not a substitute for, or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Tempest Announces Private Placement Financing of $15 Million

On April 27, 2022 Tempest Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: TPST), a clinical-stage oncology company developing novel therapeutics that combine both targeted and immune-mediated mechanisms, reported a $15 million private investment in public equity (PIPE) financing from the sale of 3,149,912 shares of its common stock at a price per share of $2.36 and, in lieu of shares of common stock, pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 3,206,020 shares of its common stock at price per pre-funded warrant of $2.359 to EcoR1 Capital, LLC and Versant Venture Capital (Press release, Tempest Therapeutics, APR 27, 2022, View Source [SID1234613049]). Gross proceeds from the PIPE financings total approximately $15.0 million, before deducting offering expenses.

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"We are very pleased to have a top investor such as EcoR1 recognize the value in Tempest, and we strongly appreciate Versant’s continued support of the Company, which has been consistent since our inception," said Stephen R. Brady, chief executive officer of Tempest. "Given the current capital markets environment, we are also pleased with the equivalent value between the securities, and will continue to diligently execute towards the development of meaningful therapies for patients."

The closing of the PIPE financing is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close by April 29, 2022.

The securities sold in this private placement, including the shares of common stock underlying the pre-funded warrants, have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the U.S. except pursuant to an effective registration statement or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. Tempest Therapeutics has agreed to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission registering the resale of the shares of common stock issued in this private placement and the shares of common stock underlying the pre-funded warrants.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

Rocket Pharmaceuticals to Present at the Bank of America Securities 2022 Global Healthcare Conference

On April 27, 2022 Rocket Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCKT), a clinical-stage company advancing an integrated and sustainable pipeline of genetic therapies for rare childhood disorders, reported that Kinnari Patel, Pharm.D., MBA, President and Chief Operating Officer, will deliver an in-person company presentation at the Bank of America Securities Healthcare Conference on Wednesday, May 11 at 2:20 p.m. ET at the Encore Hotel in Las Vegas (Press release, Rocket Pharmaceuticals, APR 27, 2022, View Source [SID1234613066]).

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Zenocutuzumab Clinical Abstract Selected for Oral Presentation at the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting

On April 27, 2022 Merus N.V. (Nasdaq: MRUS) ("Merus", "the Company", "we", or "our"), a clinical-stage oncology company developing innovative, full-length multispecific antibodies (Biclonics and Triclonics), reported the selection of an abstract for oral presentation at the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, being held in Chicago, Illinois on June 3-7, 2022 (Press release, Merus, APR 27, 2022, View Source [SID1234613157]).

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The presentation will highlight updated interim clinical data for the targeted bispecific antibody, zenocutuzumab (Zeno), in NRG1 fusion positive (NRG1+) cancer. Merus is currently enrolling patients into the phase 1/2 eNRGy trial to assess the safety and anti-tumor activity of Zeno monotherapy in NRG1+ cancer.

Oral Presentation:

Title: Efficacy and safety of zenocutuzumab, a HER2 x HER3 bispecific antibody, across advanced NRG1 fusion (NRG1+) cancers
Lead Author: Alison Schram, MD, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, NY
Abstract #: 105
Session Title: Clinical Science Symposium/ Bispecifics: Are Two Better Than One?
Session Date and Time: June 5, 2022, 9:45 -11:15 a.m. CT

The abstract highlighting interim clinical data will be available on May 26 at 5:00 p.m. ET and an oral presentation, containing an updated interim clinical data analysis, will be presented to meeting attendees and via a live stream to online-only meeting attendees, during the Clinical Science Symposium, Bispecifics: Are Two Better Than One?, session on June 5 from 9:45-11:15 a.m. CT. The presentation will be available on the Merus website shortly after the live presentation.

We continue to be encouraged by the ongoing trial, observed clinical activity and safety profile and look forward to sharing an interim clinical data update from the May 26 abstract and at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) on June 5.

Company Conference Call and Webcast Information
Merus will host a conference call and webcast for investors on Sunday, June 5, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. CT to discuss the updated interim clinical data. A replay will be available after the completion of the call in the Investors and Media section of our website.

About Zeno
Zeno is an antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC)-enhanced Biclonics that utilizes the Merus Dock & Block mechanism to inhibit the neuregulin/HER3 tumor-signaling pathway in solid tumors with NRG1 gene fusions (NRG1+). Through its unique mechanism of binding to HER2 and potently blocking the interaction of HER3 with its ligand NRG1 or NRG1-fusion proteins, Zeno has the potential to be particularly effective against NRG1+ cancers. In preclinical studies, Zeno also potently inhibits HER2/HER3 heterodimer formation and tumor growth in models harboring NRG1 fusions.

Integra LifeSciences Reports First Quarter 2022 Financial Results

On April 27, 2022 Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: IART), a leading global medical technology company, reported financial results for the first quarter ending March 31, 2022 (Press release, Integra LifeSciences, APR 27, 2022, View Source [SID1234613016]).

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First Quarter 2022 Highlights
•Revenues of $376.6 million increased 4.6% on a reported basis and 5.6% on an organic basis compared to the prior year.
•GAAP earnings per diluted share of $0.39, compared to $0.53 in the first quarter of 2021; adjusted earnings per diluted share of $0.74, compared to $0.69 in the prior year.
•The Company is raising its previous full-year 2022 organic growth guidance of 3.5% to 5% to a new range of 3.8% to 5.2%, reflecting the better than expected first quarter revenue results. Reported revenue growth is reaffirmed at 2.5% to 3.5%. Adjusted earnings per share guidance range reaffirmed at $3.27 to $3.35.

"I am pleased with the resilience shown by Integra colleagues as we navigated the COVID-19 Omicron wave early in the quarter," said Jan De Witte, Integra’s president and chief executive officer. "With global procedure volumes improving in March, our strong execution enabled us to deliver better-than-expected first quarter revenue with organic growth exceeding five percent."

First Quarter 2022 Consolidated Performance

Total reported revenues of $376.6 million increased 4.6% on a reported basis and 5.6% on an organic basis compared to the prior year.
The Company reported GAAP gross margin of 62.1%, compared to 59.5% in the first quarter of 2021. Adjusted gross margin was 67.7%, compared to 67.3% in the prior year.
Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter of 2022 was $93.5 million, or 24.8% of revenue, compared to $89.9 million, or 25.0% of revenue, in the prior year.
The Company reported GAAP net income of $32.9 million, or $0.39 per diluted share, in the first quarter of 2022, compared to a GAAP net income of $45.4 million, or $0.53 per diluted share, in the prior year. GAAP net income for the first quarter 2021 included a gain of $42.9 million from the divestiture of the Extremity Orthopedics business, which was completed in January of 2021.
Adjusted net income for the first quarter of 2022 was $62.0 million, or $0.74 per diluted share, compared to $59.0 million, or $0.69 per diluted share, in the prior year.

First Quarter 2022 Segment Performance
•Codman Specialty Surgical (66% of Revenues)
•Total revenues were $247.3 million, representing reported growth of 2.5% and organic growth of 5.0% compared to the first quarter of 2021, driven by strength in Neurosurgery. Sales in the first quarter benefited from our recently-launched CereLink ICP Monitoring System, as well as a late quarter recovery in neurosurgery procedures.

•Tissue Technologies (34% of Revenue)
•Total revenues were $129.3 million, representing reported growth of 8.8% and organic growth of 6.9% compared to the first quarter of 2021, driven by favorable timing in Private Label customer orders and growth in Wound Reconstruction and Care led by sales in our Integra Dermal Matrices and SurgiMend.

Strategic Initiatives and Key Developments
•Advancing key products

•NeuraGen 3D, the Company’s new peripheral nerve repair product, launched late in the first quarter. This innovative product is a nerve guide matrix designed to optimize the environment for nerve regeneration and may allow for more complete functional recovery following mid-gap nerve repair when compared to hollow nerve conduits alone.

•Following our U.S. and Europe launch of CereLink in the third quarter of 2021, we expanded market coverage to Canada and Australia as well as several indirect markets through the first quarter.

Balance Sheet, Cash Flow and Capital Allocation
The Company generated cash flow from operations of $44 million in the quarter. Net debt at the end of the quarter was $1.15 billion, and the consolidated total leverage ratio was 2.5x.
As of quarter end, the Company had total liquidity of approximately $1.66 billion, including approximately $407 million in cash and the remainder available under the revolving credit facility.
The Company completed the previously announced $125 million accelerated share repurchase program (ASR) in the first quarter. The Company received 1.48 million shares at inception of the ASR on January 14, 2022, which represented approximately 80% of the expected total shares. Upon settlement of the ASR in March 2022, the Company received an additional 0.46 million shares determined using the volume-weighted average price of the Company’s common stock during the term of the transaction.

In addition, on April 26, 2022, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $225 million of the Company’s common stock. The program allows the Company to repurchase its shares opportunistically from time to time. The repurchase authorization expires in December 2024. This stock repurchase authorization replaces the previous $225 million stock repurchase authorization, of which $100 million remained authorized at the time of its replacement, and which was otherwise set to expire on December 31, 2022. Purchases may be effected through one or more open market transactions, privately negotiated transactions, transactions structured through investment banking institutions, accelerated share repurchases, tender offers or open market solicitations for shares, some of which may be effected through Rule 10b5-1 plans, or a combination of the foregoing. The timing of repurchases will depend upon several factors, including market and business conditions, and repurchases may be discontinued at any time.

2022 Outlook
For the second quarter 2022, the Company expects reported revenues in the range of $392 million to $400 million, representing reported growth of approximately 0.5% to 2.5% and organic growth of approximately 2.8% to 4.8%. Adjusted earnings per diluted share are expected to be in a range of $0.78 to $0.82.

For the full year 2022, the Company is raising its organic growth expectations from an initial range of 3.5% to 5% to now 3.8% to 5.2%. This reflects the better-than-expected first quarter 2022 revenue performance but also reflects current uncertainty in global markets as well as continuing supply constraints. 2022 full year reported revenue guidance remains unchanged, within a range of $1,580 million to $1,600 million, representing reported growth of approximately 2.5% to 3.5%. This revenue guidance reflects absorbing an additional 30 basis points unfavorable currency impact, principally driven by the continuing strengthening of the US dollar against other currencies we transact sales.

Organic sales growth excludes acquisitions and divestitures as well as the effects of foreign currency and the year-over-year change in revenue from discontinued products. Organic growth includes ACell as of January 20, 2022.

Full year 2022 adjusted earnings per diluted share guidance is unchanged and is expected to be in a range of $3.27 to $3.35.

The Company is providing forward-looking guidance regarding adjusted earnings per diluted share but is not providing a reconciliation to GAAP earnings per share, because certain GAAP expense items are highly variable, and management is unable to predict them with reasonable certainty and without unreasonable effort. Specifically, the financial impact and timing of divestitures, acquisitions, integrations, structural optimization and efforts to comply with the EU Medical Device Regulation are uncertain, depend on various dynamic factors and are not reasonably ascertainable at this time. These expense items could have a material impact on GAAP results. Adjusted earnings per diluted share also excludes the impact of intangible asset amortization associated with prior business acquisitions, which we expect to be approximately $0.76 per diluted share for the full-year 2022.

Conference Call and Presentation Available Online
Integra has scheduled a conference call for 8:30 a.m. ET on Wednesday, April 27, 2022, to discuss first quarter 2022 financial results, and forward-looking financial guidance. The conference call will be hosted by Integra’s senior management team and will be open to all listeners. Additional forward-looking information may be discussed in a question-and-answer session following the call. Integra’s management team will reference a presentation during the conference call, which can be found on the Investor section of the website at investor.integralife.com.
Access to the live call is available by dialing (800)-289-0720 and using the passcode 5706502. A simultaneous webcast of the call will be available via the Company’s website at www.integralife.com. A webcast replay of the call can be accessed through the Investor Relations homepage of Integra’s website at www.integralife.com. A replay of the call will be available until May 7, 2022 by dialing (888) 203-1112 and using the passcode 5706502.