Merck’s second-quarter sales climb seven percent

Merck saw its total sales grow by seven percent year on year to reach $12.15 billion (7.4 billion pounds) in the second quarter of 2011.

According to the pharmaceutical firm's latest financial results, the asthma/allergic rhinitis drug Singulair remained its best-selling treatment during the three-month period, with sales rising by eight percent to $1.35 billion.

Meanwhile, the company's diabetes drug Januvia generated $779 million – up 30 per cent on its performance in the second quarter of 2010.

"Double-digit growth from key products and successful new product launches in markets worldwide led to Merck's strong second-quarter results," commented president and chief executive Kenneth Frazier.

He added that Merck is continuing with its drive to "streamline and transform" its operations, with the company planning to reduce its workforce by up to 13 per cent before the end of 2015.

The firm completed its $41 billion merger with rival organisation Schering-Plough in November 2009.