Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Novartis has reignited its competitive streak, targeting the reign of Dupixent (dupilumab), the newly crowned “autoimmune drug king” from Sanofi. The company has initiated a head-to-head Phase III trial for its investigational BTK inhibitor remibrutinib against Dupixent, aiming to disrupt the dominance of this top-tier therapeutic. This is not Novartis’ first strike at market leaders. In the past, its blockbuster Cosentyx (secukinumab) outperformed AbbVie's Humira and Johnson & Johnson’s Stelara in direct head-to-head trials, cementing its position as a key player in psoriasis treatment. However, despite these wins, Novartis’ 2024 autoimmune business revenue of $9.293 billion left it short of the $10 billion milestone and outside the top three in the field. Industry giants such as AbbVie, Johnson & Johnson, and Sanofi dominate the autoimmune space with super blockbuster drugs. AbbVie leads with a commanding $11.7 billion in Skyrizi sales and strong growth from Rinvoq, while Johnson & Johnson relies on products like Stelara and Tremfya. Sanofi, with Dupixent achieving $14.2 billion in sales, has solidified its position as the third-largest player in the sector. Novartis, though just shy of the $10 billion mark, is not backing down. Cosentyx, its flagship IL-17A inhibitor, has driven significant revenue growth, reaching $6.141 billion in 2024 sales, thanks to approvals for multiple indications like plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Expansion into conditions such as polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA), with Phase III trial results expected in 2025, could further elevate its market potential to $8 billion in peak sales. Yet, its other autoimmune drugs lag behind. Xolair (omalizumab), co-developed with Roche, generated $1.643 billion outside the US, but faces increasing pressure from Dupixent, which is now approved for chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) in Japan and awaiting FDA approval. Additionally, Chinese competitors are advancing innovative IgE-targeting therapies, challenging Xolair’s dominance. To counter these threats, Novartis has taken bold steps. It became the first company to file for remibrutinib’s approval in CSU treatment in China and has begun the RECLAIM Phase III trial, comparing remibrutinib directly with Dupixent. As a highly selective, oral, and irreversible BTK inhibitor, remibrutinib offers convenience over injectable biologics, with Novartis projecting $3 billion in peak sales. Additionally, Novartis secured an $830 million deal with Kyorin Pharmaceutical to develop MRGPRX2 antagonists like KRP-M223, targeting allergic and inflammatory mast cell diseases such as CSU. This emerging class of drugs represents a blue ocean market, with few competitors currently in clinical trials. Novartis is also advancing a robust autoimmune pipeline, with 15 early-stage and 8 late-stage clinical programs exploring diverse mechanisms, including NLRP3 inhibitors, CD19 CAR-T therapies, and BAFF-R monoclonal antibodies. Analysts suggest that Novartis’ strategy of head-to-head trials, pipeline diversification, and strategic licensing could help secure its place in the $100 billion autoimmune market. While challenges remain, including strong competition from Sanofi and Johnson & Johnson, Novartis’ aggressive moves could reshape the landscape, positioning it as a leading force in the autoimmune sector.

UNLOXCYT™ (cosibelimab-ipdl) approved by U.S. FDA as first and only anti-PD-L1 treatment for advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinomaWALTHAM, Mass., March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Checkpoint Therapeutics, Inc. (“Checkpoint”) (Nasdaq: CKPT), a commercial-stage immunotherapy and targeted oncology company, today announced financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, and recent corporate updates. Recent Corporate Updates: In March 2025, Checkpoint announced that it entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) with Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. (“Sun Pharma”), and a wholly owned subsidiary of Sun Pharma, with Checkpoint continuing as the surviving corporation of the transaction and a wholly owned subsidiary of Sun Pharma (the “Merger”). The total transaction value of the Merger, including the upfront cash payment and the maximum value of the contingent value right (“CVR”), is up to approximately $416 million, and the Merger is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2025. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including required regulatory approvals and approval by the holders of a majority of the voting power of outstanding shares of Checkpoint common stock, and by the holders of a majority of the shares of Checkpoint common stock that are not held by Fortress Biotech, Inc. or by certain other affiliates of Checkpoint.In December 2024, Checkpoint announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) approved UNLOXCYTTM (cosibelimab-ipdl) for the treatment of adults with metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (“cSCC”) or locally advanced cSCC who are not candidates for curative surgery or curative radiation. UNLOXCYT is the first and only programmed death ligand-1 (“PD-L1”) blocking antibody to receive FDA marketing approval for this indication.In September 2024, Checkpoint presented longer-term data from its pivotal trial of cosibelimab in locally advanced and metastatic cSCC during the European Society for Medical Oncology (“ESMO”) Congress 2024. Longer-term results for cosibelimab presented at the ESMO Congress demonstrate a deepening of response over time, with higher objective response and complete response rates than initially observed at the primary analyses. A copy of the ESMO poster can be found on the Publications page of Checkpoint’s website. Financial Results: Cash Position: As of December 31, 2024, Checkpoint’s cash and cash equivalents totaled $6.6 million, compared to $4.9 million at December 31, 2023, an increase of $1.7 million. Subsequent to the end of the fiscal year, Checkpoint received approximately $38.1 million in cash proceeds through the exercise of existing warrants.R&D Expenses: Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024, were $36.2 million, compared to $43.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, a decrease of $7.4 million. Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024, included $12.9 million of non-cash stock expenses, compared to $4.6 million in non-cash stock expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023.G&A Expenses: General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024, were $20.1 million, compared to $8.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, an increase of $11.4 million. General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024, included $11.0 million of non-cash stock expenses, compared to $2.7 million in non-cash stock expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023.Net Loss: Net loss attributable to common stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2024, was $56.2 million, or $1.42 per share, compared to a net loss of $51.8 million, or $3.17 per share, for the year ended December 31, 2023. About UNLOXCYTTM (cosibelimab-ipdl) UNLOXCYT is a human immunoglobulin G1 monoclonal antibody that binds PD-L1 and blocks the interaction between PD-L1 and its T cell receptors, PD-1 and B7.1. This interaction releases the inhibitory effects of PD-L1 on the anti-tumor immune response. UNLOXCYT has also been shown to induce antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity. INDICATION and IMPORANT SAFETY INFORMATION INDICATION UNLOXCYT (cosibelimab-ipdl) is indicated for the treatment of adults with metastatic cSCC or locally advanced cSCC who are not candidates for curative surgery or curative radiation. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions Immune-mediated adverse reactions listed herein may not include all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions. Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which can be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue, and occur at any time after starting a PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibody, including UNLOXCYT. While immune-mediated adverse reactions usually manifest during treatment, they can also manifest after discontinuation of PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. Immune-mediated adverse reactions affecting more than one body system can occur simultaneously.Monitor closely for signs and symptoms of immune-mediated adverse reactions. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function tests at baseline and periodically during treatment. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate.Withhold or permanently discontinue UNLOXCYT depending on the severity of the adverse reaction (see Dosage and Administration in Prescribing Information). In general, if UNLOXCYT requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroids (1 to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose immune-mediated adverse reaction is not controlled with corticosteroids. Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis UNLOXCYT can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. In patients treated with other PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies, the incidence of pneumonitis is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 1% (3/223, Grade 2) of patients receiving UNLOXCYT. Immune-Mediated Colitis UNLOXCYT can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may present with diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Cytomegalovirus infection/reactivation has occurred in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis treated with PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies. Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 0.4% (1/223, Grade 1) of patients receiving UNLOXCYT. Immune-Mediated Hepatitis UNLOXCYT can cause immune-mediated hepatitis. Immune-Mediated EndocrinopathiesAdrenal Insufficiency UNLOXCYT can cause primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. For Grade 2 or higher adrenal insufficiency, initiate symptomatic treatment per institutional guidelines, including hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue UNLOXCYT depending on severity. Adrenal insufficiency occurred in 0.9% (2/223) of patients receiving UNLOXCYT, including Grade 2 in 0.4% (1/223) of patients. Hypophysitis UNLOXCYT can cause immune-mediated hypophysitis. Hypophysitis can present with acute symptoms associated with mass effect such as headache, photophobia, or visual field cuts. Hypophysitis can cause hypopituitarism. Initiate hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue UNLOXCYT depending on severity. Thyroid Disorders UNLOXCYT can cause immune-mediated thyroid disorders. Thyroiditis can present with or without endocrinopathy. Hypothyroidism can follow hyperthyroidism. Initiate hormone replacement or medical management of hyperthyroidism as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue UNLOXCYT depending on severity. Hypothyroidism occurred in 10% (22/223) of patients receiving UNLOXCYT, including Grade 2 in 5% (10/223) of patients. Hyperthyroidism occurred in 5% (12/223) of patients receiving UNLOXCYT, including Grade 2 in 0.4% (1/223) of patients. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, Which Can Present with Diabetic Ketoacidosis UNLOXCYT can cause type 1 diabetes mellitus, which can present with diabetic ketoacidosis. Monitor patients for hyperglycemia or other signs and symptoms of diabetes. Initiate treatment with insulin as clinically indicated. Withhold or permanently discontinue UNLOXCYT depending on severity. Immune-Mediated Nephritis with Renal Dysfunction UNLOXCYT can cause immune-mediated nephritis. Immune-Mediated Dermatologic Adverse Reactions UNLOXCYT can cause immune-mediated rash or dermatitis. Bullous and exfoliative dermatitis, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), have occurred with PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. Topical emollients and/or topical corticosteroids may be adequate to treat mild to moderate non-bullous/exfoliative rashes. Withhold or permanently discontinue UNLOXCYT depending on severity. Immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions occurred in 7% (15/223) of patients receiving UNLOXCYT, including Grade 3 in 0.9% (2/223) of patients and Grade 2 in 4% (9/223) of patients. Other Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions The following clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred in <1% of the 223 patients who received UNLOXCYT or were reported with the use of other PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibodies. Severe or fatal cases have been reported for some of these adverse reactions. Cardiac/Vascular: Myocarditis, pericarditis, vasculitis.Nervous System: Meningitis, encephalitis, myelitis and demyelination, myasthenic syndrome/myasthenia gravis (including exacerbation), Guillain-Barre syndrome, nerve paresis, autoimmune neuropathy.Ocular: Uveitis, iritis, other ocular inflammatory toxicities. Some cases can be associated with retinal detachment. Various grades of visual impairment to include blindness can occur. If uveitis occurs in combination with other immune-mediated adverse reactions, consider a Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada–like syndrome, as this may require treatment with systemic steroids to reduce the risk of permanent vision loss.Gastrointestinal: Pancreatitis, including increases in serum amylase and lipase levels, gastritis, duodenitis.Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue: Myositis/polymyositis, rhabdomyolysis and associated sequelae including renal failure, arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica.Endocrine: Hypoparathyroidism.Other (Hematologic/Immune): Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (Kikuchi lymphadenitis), sarcoidosis, immune thrombocytopenia, solid organ transplant rejection, other transplant (including corneal graft) rejection. Infusion-Related Reactions UNLOXCYT can cause severe or life-threatening infusion-related reactions. Infusion-related infusion reactions were reported in 11% (24/223) of patients, including Grade 2 in 5.8% (13/223) of patients receiving UNLOXCYT.Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions. Interrupt or slow the rate of infusion or permanently discontinue UNLOXCYT based on severity of reaction. Consider premedication with an antipyretic and/or an antihistamine for patients who have had previous systemic reactions to infusions of therapeutic proteins. Complications of Allogeneic HSCT Fatal and other serious complications can occur in patients who receive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) before or after being treated with a PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibody. Transplant-related complications include hyperacute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), acute GVHD, chronic GVHD, hepatic veno-occlusive disease after reduced intensity conditioning, and steroid-requiring febrile syndrome (without an identified infectious cause). These complications may occur despite intervening therapy between PD-1/PD-L1 blockade and allogeneic HSCT. Follow patients closely for evidence of transplant-related complications and intervene promptly. Consider the benefit versus risks of treatment with a PD-1/PD-L1–blocking antibody prior to or after an allogeneic HSCT. Embryo-Fetal Toxicity Based on its mechanism of action, UNLOXCYT can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Animal studies have demonstrated that inhibition of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway can lead to increased risk of immune-mediated rejection of the developing fetus, resulting in fetal death. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with UNLOXCYT and for 4 months after the last dose. Common Adverse Reactions The most common adverse reactions (≥10%) were fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, rash, diarrhea, hypothyroidism, constipation, nausea, headache, pruritus, edema, localized infection, and urinary tract infection. Please see full Prescribing Information. About Checkpoint Therapeutics Checkpoint Therapeutics, Inc. is a commercial-stage immunotherapy and targeted oncology company focused on the acquisition, development and commercialization of novel treatments for patients with solid tumor cancers. Checkpoint has received approval from the FDA for UNLOXCYTTM (cosibelimab-ipdl) for the treatment of adults with metastatic cSCC or locally advanced cSCC who are not candidates for curative surgery or curative radiation. Additionally, Checkpoint is evaluating its lead investigational small-molecule, targeted anti-cancer agent, olafertinib (formerly CK-101), a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (“EGFR”) inhibitor, as a potential new treatment for patients with EGFR mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer. Checkpoint is headquartered in Waltham, MA and was founded by Fortress Biotech, Inc. (Nasdaq: FBIO). For more information, visit www.checkpointtx.com. Forward‐Looking Statements This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. For those statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include, but are not limited to, express or implied, statements regarding the Merger and related matters, including the benefits of and timeline for closing the Merger, any payments under the CVRs, prospective performance and opportunities, post-closing operations and the outlook for the companies’ businesses; projections of or targets for revenues, costs, income (or loss), earnings per share, capital expenditures, dividends, capital structure, net financials and other financial measures; expectations for the timing and commercial launch and availability of UNLOXCYTTM (cosibelimab-ipdl) for the treatment of adults with metastatic cSCC or locally advanced cSCC who are not candidates for curative surgery or curative radiation; the commercial potential of UNLOXCYT; anticipated healthcare professional and patient acceptance and use of UNLOXCYT for the FDA-approved indication; and assumptions underlying or relating to such statements. Factors that may affect future results and may cause these forward-looking statements to be inaccurate include, but are not limited to: uncertainties as to the timing of completion of the Merger; uncertainties as to whether Checkpoint’s stockholders will vote to approve the transaction; the possibility that competing offers will be made; the possibility that various closing conditions for the transaction may not be satisfied or waived, including that a governmental entity may prohibit, delay or refuse to grant approval for the consummation of the transaction (or only grant approval subject to adverse conditions or limitations); the possibility that the proposed transaction may not be completed in the time frame expected by Checkpoint, or at all; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction in the time frame expected, or at all; the effects of the transaction on relationships with employees, other business partners or governmental entities; potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships resulting from the announcement or completion of the proposed transaction; significant or unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the proposed transaction; negative effects of this announcement or the consummation of the proposed acquisition on Checkpoint’s common stock and/or Checkpoint’s operating results; the difficulty of predicting the timing or outcome of regulatory approvals or actions; the risks related to non-achievement of the CVR milestone and that holders of the CVRs will not receive payments in respect of the CVRs; other business effects, including the effects of industry, economic or political conditions outside of the companies’ control; transaction costs; actual or contingent liabilities; risk of litigation and/or regulatory actions related to the proposed acquisition; adverse impacts on business, operating results or financial condition in the future due to pandemics, epidemics or outbreaks, and their impact on Checkpoint’s business, operations, supply chain, patient enrollment and retention, clinical trials, strategy, goals and anticipated milestones; government-mandated or market-driven price decreases for Checkpoint’s products; the existence or introduction of competing products; reliance on information technology; Checkpoint’s ability to successfully market current and new products; Checkpoint’s and its collaborators’ ability to continue to conduct research and clinical programs; and exposure to product liability and legal proceedings and investigations. Further risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated by the forward-looking statements are detailed from time to time in Checkpoint’s periodic reports filed with the SEC, including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and the definitive proxy statement to be filed by Checkpoint with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. These filings, when available, are available on the investor relations section of Checkpoint’s website at https://ir.checkpointtx.com or on the SEC’s website at https://www.sec.gov. Any forward-looking statements set forth in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release, are made based on current beliefs and judgments, and are not predictions of actual performance. New risks and uncertainties arise from time to time, and it is impossible for us to predict these events or how they may affect us. We caution that a number of important factors, including those described in this document, could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in any forward-looking statements. Unlisted factors may present significant additional obstacles to the realization of forward-looking statements. We expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in our expectations or any changes in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law. This press release and prior releases are available at www.checkpointtx.com. The information found on our website is not incorporated by reference into this press release and is included for reference purposes only. Company Contact:Jaclyn JaffeCheckpoint Therapeutics, Inc.(781) 652-4500ir@checkpointtx.com Investor Relations Contact:Sandya von der WeidAssociate Director, LifeSci Advisors, LLC+41 78 680 05 38svonderweid@lifesciadvisors.com Media Relations Contact:Katie KennedyGregory FCA610-731-1045checkpoint@gregoryfca.com CHECKPOINT THERAPEUTICS, INC.CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)(Unaudited) December 31, 2024 2023 ASSETS Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $6,604 $4,928 Prepaid expenses and other assets 867 450 Total current assets 7,471 5,378 Total Assets $7,471 $5,378 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) Current Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued expenses $17,465 $15,485 Accounts payable and accrued expenses - related party 2,433 2,815 Common stock warrant liabilities 198 125 Total current liabilities 20,096 18,425 Total Liabilities 20,096 18,425 Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) Common Stock ($0.0001 par value), 175,000,000 and 80,000,000 shares authorized as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively Class A common shares, 700,000 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 - - Common shares, 53,640,422 and 27,042,035 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively 5 3 Common stock issuable, 2,386,808 and 1,492,915 shares as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively 7,638 3,419 Additional paid-in capital 350,305 297,864 Accumulated deficit (370,573) (314,333)Total Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit) (12,625) (13,047)Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit) $7,471 $5,378 CHECKPOINT THERAPEUTICS, INC.CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)(Unaudited) For the year ended December 31, 2024 2023 Revenue - related party $41 $103 Operating expenses: Research and development 36,152 43,566 General and administrative 20,063 8,685 Total operating expenses 56,215 52,251 Loss from operations (56,174) (52,148) Other income (loss): Interest income 11 84 Gain (loss) on common stock warrant liabilities (73) 217 Foreign currency exchange loss (4) - Total other income (loss) (66) 301 Net Loss $(56,240) $(51,847) Loss per Share: Basic and diluted net loss per Class A common share and common share outstanding $(1.42) $(3.17) Basic and diluted weighted average number of Class A common shares and common shares outstanding 39,674,444 18,742,494

Fourth quarter 2024 revenues increased 10% to $3 .79 billion versus fourth quarter 2023 Full year 2024 revenues increased 8% to $14 .20 billion versus 2023; excluding RonapreveTM(a)(b), revenues increased 10% Fourth quarter 2024 Dupixent® global net sales (recorded by Sanofi) increased 15% to $3 .70 billion versus fourth quarter 2023; full year 2024 Dupixent global net sales increased 22% to $14 .15 billion versus 2023 Fourth quarter 2024 U.S. net sales for EYLEA HD® and EYLEA® increased 2% versus fourth quarter 2023 to $1 .50 billion, including $305 million from EYLEA HD; full year 2024 U.S. net sales for EYLEA HD and EYLEA increased 1% versus 2023 to $5 .97 billion versus 2023, including $1.20 billion from EYLEA HD Fourth quarter 2024 Libtayo® global net sales increased 50% to $367 million versus fourth quarter 2023; full year 2024 Libtayo global net sales increased 40% to $1.22 billion versus 2023 Fourth quarter 2024 GAAP diluted EPS of $8.06 and non-GAAP diluted EPS(a) of $12.07 ; fourth quarter 2024 includes unfavorable $0.11 impact from acquired IPR&D charge Initiation of quarterly cash dividend program, $0.88 dividend declared; additional $3 .0 billion share repurchase program authorized, bringing current repurchase capacity to ~$4.5 billion Regulatory applications submitted to FDA for EYLEA HD pre-filled syringe, Dupixent in bullous pemphigoid, odronextamab in follicular lymphoma, and linvoseltamab in multiple myeloma Positive Phase 3 results reported for EYLEA HD in retinal vein occlusion (RVO) and Libtayo in high-risk adjuvant cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) TARRYTOWN, N.Y. , Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: REGN) today announced financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024 and provided a business update. " Regeneron 's financial and commercial strength allows for continued investment in our industry-leading R&D pipeline, while simultaneously returning capital to our shareholders through our newly initiated dividend program and increased share repurchase capacity," said Leonard S. Schleifer , M.D., Ph.D., Board co-Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer of Regeneron . "In 2025, we will continue to focus on our four blockbuster medicines as we progress our approximately 40 investigational candidates covering dozens of disease states with expansive market potential." Financial Highlights "2024 was another year of top- and bottom-line growth for Regeneron . This strong financial performance, coupled with the strength of our balance sheet, allows us to initiate a quarterly cash dividend program as well as increase our current share repurchase capacity to approximately $4.5 billion ," said Christopher Fenimore , Executive Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer of Regeneron . Business Highlights Key Pipeline Progress Regeneron has approximately 40 product candidates in clinical development, including a number of marketed products for which it is investigating additional indications. Updates from the clinical pipeline include: EYLEA HD (aflibercept) 8 mg The Company announced that the primary endpoint was met in the Phase 3 QUASAR trial investigating EYLEA HD for the treatment of patients with macular edema following RVO, including those with central, branch, and hemiretinal vein occlusions. In the trial, patients treated with EYLEA HD every 8 weeks (after initial monthly doses) experienced non-inferior vision gains compared to those treated with the approved monthly dosing regimen of EYLEA, the current standard of care. The Company plans to submit a supplemental Biologics License Application (sBLA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the first quarter of 2025. A regulatory application for a pre-filled syringe was submitted to the FDA, with an FDA decision expected by mid-2025. Dupixent (dupilumab) In November 2024 , the European Commission (EC) approved Dupixent to treat eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) in children aged 1 to 11 years, making Dupixent the first and only medicine indicated to treat these young patients. The FDA accepted for review the resubmission of an sBLA for Dupixent to treat adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) whose disease is not adequately controlled with H1 antihistamine treatment, with a target action date of April 18, 2025 . An sBLA for Dupixent in bullous pemphigoid was submitted to the FDA. A Phase 3 study in lichen simplex chronicus was initiated. Libtayo (cemiplimab) The Company announced positive results from a Phase 3 trial of Libtayo, which demonstrated that adjuvant treatment with Libtayo was the first and only immunotherapy that led to a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in the primary endpoint of disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with high-risk CSCC after surgery. A Phase 3 study of Libtayo administered intralesionally in patients with early-stage CSCC was initiated. Hematology Programs In January 2025 , the Company resubmitted to the FDA the BLA for linvoseltamab, a bispecific antibody targeting BCMA and CD3, in relapsed/refractory (R/R) multiple myeloma following resolution of third-party manufacturing issues. In January 2025 , the Company resubmitted to the FDA the BLA for odronextamab, a bispecific antibody targeting CD20 and CD3, in R/R follicular lymphoma. The Company presented new and updated data for odronextamab spanning several B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) subtypes across earlier lines of treatment at the 66th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition. The Company announced positive Phase 2 results for two antibodies targeting distinct domains of Factor XI. REGN7508 (catalytic domain) is designed to maximize anticoagulant activity while minimizing bleeding risk, and REGN9933 (A2 domain) is designed to provide an additional option for patients with the highest bleeding risk who would otherwise not be candidates for currently available anticoagulants. Per the Phase 2 results, there was a robust antithrombotic effect for each antibody, and no clinically relevant bleeding was observed. The Company announced positive updated data from a Phase 3 study of pozelimab (C5 antibody), in combination with cemdisiran (siRNA therapy), against ravulizumab, a standard-of-care C5 inhibitor, in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). The study showed that the combination treatment helped patients achieve and maintain greater disease control, compared to ravulizumab. These results were presented at the 66th ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition. Other Programs The EC approved Kevzara® (sarilumab) for the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA). A Phase 3 study for mibavademab, an agonist antibody to leptin receptor (LEPR), in generalized lipodystrophy was initiated. Enrollment was completed in a Phase 2 study in obesity for trevogrumab, an antibody to myostatin (GDF8), in combination with semaglutide with and without garetosmab, an antibody to Activin A. A Phase 2 study for itepekimab, an antibody to IL-33, in chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP) was initiated. A Phase 2 study for REGN7544, an antagonist antibody to NPR1 , in postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) was initiated. The Company shared initial data from the first patient in a Phase 1 study of linvoseltamab, in combination with Dupixent, in severe food allergy at the 43rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference . Corporate and Business Development Updates In February 2025 , the Company's board of directors approved the initiation of a quarterly cash dividend program and declared a cash dividend of $0.88 per share on the Company's common stock and Class A stock, payable on March 20, 2025 to shareholders of record as of February 20, 2025 . The Company intends to pay a cash dividend on a quarterly basis going forward, subject to market conditions and approval by the Company's board of directors in its sole discretion. In February 2025 , the Company's board of directors also authorized an additional $3 .0 billion share repurchase program, bringing the total current capacity to approximately $4.5 billion . Repurchases may be made from time to time at management's discretion through a variety of methods. The program has no time limit and can be discontinued at any time. In January 2025 , the Company entered into an agreement with Truveta Inc. pursuant to which the Company will sequence exomes and conduct genotyping and imputation of up to ten million de-identified consented volunteers using biospecimens provided by Truveta health system members across the United States . The Company announced its inclusion on the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index ( DJSI World ) for the sixth consecutive year, as well as its fifth consecutive inclusion on the Dow Jones Sustainability North America Index ( DJSI North America ). Select Upcoming 2025 Milestones Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Results Revenues EYLEA HD was approved by the FDA in August 2023 and net product sales in 2024 were driven by the transition of patients from other anti-VEGF products, including EYLEA, as well as new patients naïve to anti-VEGF therapy. Net product sales of EYLEA HD and EYLEA in the fourth quarter and full year 2024 were adversely impacted by a lower net selling price compared to the same periods of 2023. In addition, fourth quarter 2024 total EYLEA HD and EYLEA net product sales were favorably impacted by approximately $85 million as a result of higher wholesaler inventory levels for EYLEA, partially offset by lower wholesaler inventory levels for EYLEA HD, at the end of the fourth quarter 2024 compared to the end of the third quarter 2024. Sanofi collaboration revenue increased in the fourth quarter and full year 2024, compared to the same periods of 2023, due to an increase in the Company's share of profits from the commercialization of antibodies, which were $1 .043 billion and $886 million in the fourth quarter of 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $3 .924 billion and $3 .137 billion for full year 2024 and 2023, respectively. The change in the Company's share of profits from commercialization of antibodies was driven by higher profits associated with an increase in Dupixent sales. Sanofi collaboration revenue in 2023 was positively impacted by the recognition of a $50 million sales-based milestone. Collaboration revenue for full year 2023 included $224 million in connection with the Company's share of global gross profits from sales of Ronapreve by Roche. Refer to Table 4 for a summary of collaboration revenue. Operating Expenses GAAP and non-GAAP R&D expenses increased in the fourth quarter and full year 2024, compared to the same periods in the prior year, driven by the advancement of the Company's mid- and late-stage clinical pipeline and higher headcount-related costs. Acquired IPR&D expense for full year 2024 included a $45 million development milestone in connection with the Company's collaboration agreement with Sonoma Biotherapeutics, Inc. Acquired IPR&D expense for full year 2023 included a $100 million development milestone in connection with the Company's collaboration with Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. GAAP and non-GAAP SG&A expenses increased for full year 2024, compared to full year 2023, due to higher commercialization-related expenses to support the Company's launch of EYLEA HD and higher headcount and headcount-related costs partly related to the Company's international commercial expansion. GAAP and non-GAAP COGS increased for full year 2024, compared to full year 2023, primarily due to higher start-up costs for the Company's Rensselaer, New York fill/finish facility. GAAP other operating expense (income), net, for the fourth quarter and full year 2024 reflects charges related to the increase in the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration liability recognized in connection with the Company's 2023 acquisition of Decibel Therapeutics, Inc. Other Financial Information GAAP other income (expense), net included the recognition of net unrealized losses on equity securities of $213 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $58 million of net unrealized gains in the fourth quarter of 2023. GAAP other income (expense), net included the recognition of net unrealized gains on equity securities of $118 million for full year 2024, compared to net unrealized losses of $238 million for full year 2023. GAAP and non-GAAP other income (expense), net also included interest income of $711 million for full year 2024, compared to $496 million for full year 2023. In the fourth quarter and full year 2024, the Company's GAAP effective tax rate (ETR) was 4.2% and 7.7%, respectively, compared to (1.0%) and 5.9% in the fourth quarter and full year 2023, respectively. The GAAP ETR increased in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year, due to a lower benefit from stock-based compensation. In the fourth quarter and full year 2024, the non-GAAP ETR was 9.9% and 9.6%, respectively, compared to 2.4% and 9.1% in the fourth quarter and full year 2023, respectively. GAAP net income per diluted share was $8.06 in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $10.19 in the fourth quarter of 2023. GAAP net income per diluted share was $38.34 for the full year 2024, compared to $34.77 for the full year 2023. Non-GAAP net income per diluted share was $12.07 in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $11.86 in the fourth quarter of 2023. Non-GAAP net income per diluted share was $45.62 for the full year 2024, compared to $43.79 for the full year 2023. A reconciliation of the Company's GAAP to non-GAAP results is included in Table 3 of this press release. The Company repurchased $976 million and $2.6 billion of shares of its common stock during the fourth quarter and full year 2024, respectively, and recorded the cost of the shares as Treasury Stock. 2025 Financial Guidance(c) The Company's full year 2025 financial guidance consists of the following components: A reconciliation of full year 2025 GAAP to non-GAAP financial guidance is included below: Conference Call Information Regeneron will host a conference call and simultaneous webcast to discuss its fourth quarter and full year 2024 financial and operating results on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 , at 8:30 AM Eastern Time . Participants may access the conference call live via webcast, or register in advance and participate via telephone, on the "Investors and Media" page of Regeneron 's website at www.regeneron.com. Upon registration, all telephone participants will receive a confirmation email detailing how to join the conference call, including the dial-in number along with a unique passcode and registrant ID that can be used to access the call. A replay of the conference call and webcast will be archived on the Company's website for at least 30 days. About Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Regeneron is a leading biotechnology company that invents, develops, and commercializes life-transforming medicines for people with serious diseases. Founded and led by physician-scientists, Regeneron 's unique ability to repeatedly and consistently translate science into medicine has led to numerous approved treatments and product candidates in development, most of which were homegrown in Regeneron 's laboratories. Regeneron 's medicines and pipeline are designed to help patients with eye diseases, allergic and inflammatory diseases, cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, neurological diseases, hematologic conditions, infectious diseases, and rare diseases. Regeneron pushes the boundaries of scientific discovery and accelerates drug development using its proprietary technologies, such as VelociSuite®, which produces optimized fully human antibodies and new classes of bispecific antibodies. Regeneron is shaping the next frontier of medicine with data-powered insights from the Regeneron Genetics Center® and pioneering genetic medicine platforms, enabling Regeneron to identify innovative targets and complementary approaches to potentially treat or cure diseases. For more information, please visit www.regeneron.com or follow Regeneron on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, or X. Forward-Looking Statements and Use of Digital Media This press release includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties relating to future events and the future performance of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ("Regeneron" or the "Company"), and actual events or results may differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Words such as "anticipate," "expect," "intend," "plan," "believe," "seek," "estimate," variations of such words, and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These statements concern, and these risks and uncertainties include, among others, the nature, timing, and possible success and therapeutic applications of products marketed or otherwise commercialized by Regeneron and/or its collaborators or licensees (collectively, " Regeneron 's Products") and product candidates being developed by Regeneron and/or its collaborators or licensees (collectively, " Regeneron 's Product Candidates") and research and clinical programs now underway or planned, including without limitation EYLEA HD® (aflibercept) Injection 8 mg, EYLEA® (aflibercept) Injection, Dupixent® (dupilumab), Libtayo® (cemiplimab), Praluent® (alirocumab), Kevzara® (sarilumab), Evkeeza® (evinacumab), Veopoz® (pozelimab), Ordspono™ (odronextamab), itepekimab, fianlimab, garetosmab, linvoseltamab, Regeneron 's other oncology programs (including its costimulatory bispecific portfolio), REGN5713-5715, nexiguran ziclumeran (nex-z, NTLA-2001), REGN1908-1909, mibavademab, Regeneron 's and its collaborators' earlier-stage programs, and the use of human genetics in Regeneron 's research programs; the likelihood and timing of achieving any of the anticipated milestones described in this press release; safety issues resulting from the administration of Regeneron 's Products and Regeneron 's Product Candidates in patients, including serious complications or side effects in connection with the use of Regeneron’s Products and Regeneron 's Product Candidates in clinical trials; the likelihood, timing, and scope of possible regulatory approval and commercial launch of Regeneron 's Product Candidates and new indications for Regeneron 's Products, including those listed above and/or otherwise discussed in this press release; the extent to which the results from the research and development programs conducted by Regeneron and/or its collaborators may be replicated in other studies and/or lead to advancement of product candidates to clinical trials, therapeutic applications, or regulatory approval; ongoing regulatory obligations and oversight impacting Regeneron 's Products, research and clinical programs, and business, including those relating to patient privacy; determinations by regulatory and administrative governmental authorities which may delay or restrict Regeneron 's ability to continue to develop or commercialize Regeneron 's Products and Regeneron 's Product Candidates; competing drugs and product candidates that may be superior to, or more cost effective than, Regeneron 's Products and Regeneron 's Product Candidates (including biosimilar versions of Regeneron 's Products); uncertainty of the utilization, market acceptance, and commercial success of Regeneron 's Products and Regeneron 's Product Candidates and the impact of studies (whether conducted by Regeneron or others and whether mandated or voluntary) or recommendations and guidelines from governmental authorities and other third parties on the commercial success of Regeneron 's Products and Regeneron 's Product Candidates; the ability of Regeneron to manufacture and manage supply chains for multiple products and product candidates; the ability of Regeneron’s collaborators, suppliers, or other third parties (as applicable) to perform manufacturing, filling, finishing, packaging, labeling, distribution, and other steps related to Regeneron’s Products and Regeneron 's Product Candidates; the availability and extent of reimbursement of Regeneron’s Products from third-party payers, including private payer healthcare and insurance programs, health maintenance organizations, pharmacy benefit management companies, and government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid; coverage and reimbursement determinations by such payers and new policies and procedures adopted by such payers; changes in laws, regulations, and policies affecting the healthcare industry; unanticipated expenses; the costs of developing, producing, and selling products; the ability of Regeneron to meet any of its financial projections or guidance and changes to the assumptions underlying those projections or guidance, including GAAP and non-GAAP R&D, GAAP and non-GAAP SG&A, GAAP and non-GAAP gross margin on net product sales, COCM, capital expenditures, and GAAP and non-GAAP ETR; the potential for any license or collaboration agreement, including Regeneron 's agreements with Sanofi and Bayer (or their respective affiliated companies, as applicable), to be cancelled or terminated; the impact of public health outbreaks, epidemics, or pandemics on Regeneron 's business; and risks associated with litigation and other proceedings and government investigations relating to the Company and/or its operations (including the pending civil proceedings initiated or joined by the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts ), risks associated with intellectual property of other parties and pending or future litigation relating thereto (including without limitation the patent litigation and other related proceedings relating to EYLEA), the ultimate outcome of any such proceedings and investigations, and the impact any of the foregoing may have on Regeneron’s business, prospects, operating results, and financial condition. A more complete description of these and other material risks can be found in Regeneron 's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission . Any forward-looking statements are made based on management's current beliefs and judgment, and the reader is cautioned not to rely on any forward-looking statements made by Regeneron . Regeneron does not undertake any obligation to update (publicly or otherwise) any forward-looking statement, including without limitation any financial projection or guidance, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Regeneron uses its media and investor relations website and social media outlets to publish important information about the Company, including information that may be deemed material to investors. Financial and other information about Regeneron is routinely posted and is accessible on Regeneron 's media and investor relations website (https://investor.regeneron.com) and its LinkedIn page (https://www.linkedin.com/company/regeneron-pharmaceuticals). Non-GAAP Financial Measures This press release and/or the financial results attached to this press release include amounts that are considered "non-GAAP financial measures" under SEC rules. As required, Regeneron has provided reconciliations of such non-GAAP financial measures. TABLE 1 TABLE 2 TABLE 3 TABLE 4 TABLE 5 Source: Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.