Lupus Erythematosus, Discoid

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif., Feb. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) today announced financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2023 versus comparable periods in 2022. "2023 was another year of performance and progress for our company," said Robert A. Bradway, chairman and chief executive officer. "Our marketed products are reaching many more patients around the world, and we anticipate more than a dozen significant pipeline milestones in 2024." Key results include: For the fourth quarter, total revenues increased 20% to $8.2 billion in comparison to the fourth quarter of 2022. Product sales grew 20%, driven by 23% volume growth, partially offset by 3% lower net selling price. Nine brands(1) achieved record sales in the quarter, and Repatha® (evolocumab), EVENITY® (romosozumab-aqqg), Prolia® (denosumab) and BLINCYTO® (blinatumomab) delivered double-digit volume growth globally. U.S. volume grew 26% and ex-U.S. volume grew 15%, including 46% volume growth in the Asia Pacific region. Our performance included $954 million of sales for the period of Oct. 6 - Dec. 31 from our recent Horizon Therapeutics (Horizon) acquisition, driven by several first-in-class, early-in-lifecycle medicines such as TEPEZZA® (teprotumumab-trbw), KRYSTEXXA® (pegloticase) and UPLIZNA® (inebilizumab-cdon). Excluding the impact of these sales from Horizon, our product sales grew 5%, driven by volume growth of 9%. For the full year, total revenues increased 7% to $28.2 billion, resulting from a 9% increase in product sales. Product sales growth was driven by 15% volume growth, partially offset by 3% lower net selling price, 1% unfavorable changes from estimated sales deductions and 1% negative impact from foreign exchange. GAAP earnings per share (EPS) decreased 53% from $3.00 to $1.42 in the fourth quarter, driven by acquisition-related expenses and incremental operating expenses from Horizon, partially offset by increased revenues. For the full year, GAAP EPS increased 3% from $12.11 to $12.49 driven by net gains on our BeiGene, Ltd equity investment in 2023 and higher revenues, partially offset by higher operating expenses, including acquisition-related expenses and incremental expenses from Horizon. For the fourth quarter, GAAP operating income decreased from $2.2 billion to $1.3 billion, and GAAP operating margin decreased 17.8 percentage points to 16.2%. For the full year, GAAP operating income decreased from $9.6 billion to $7.9 billion, and GAAP operating margin decreased 9.3 percentage points to 29.3%. Non-GAAP EPS increased 15% from $4.09 to $4.71 in the fourth quarter and increased 5% from $17.69 to $18.65 for the full year, driven by increased revenues, partially offset by higher operating expenses, including incremental expenses from Horizon. Fourth quarter non-GAAP EPS was also unfavorably impacted by higher interest expense. For the fourth quarter, non-GAAP operating income increased from $3.0 billion to $3.7 billion, and non-GAAP operating margin increased 0.8 percentage points to 46.7%. For the full year, non-GAAP operating income increased from $12.8 billion to $13.4 billion, and non-GAAP operating margin decreased 1.7 percentage points to 49.8%. The Company generated $7.4 billion of free cash flow for the full year versus $8.8 billion in 2022. The decrease in 2023 was primarily driven by transaction expenses related to the Horizon acquisition and higher repatriation tax payments. (1) Includes product sales for the full fourth quarter of 2023 from UPLIZNA and KRYSTEXXA in connection with Horizon acquisition. References in this release to "non-GAAP" measures, measures presented "on a non-GAAP basis," "free cash flow" (computed by subtracting capital expenditures from operating cash flow), "EBITDA, or earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization" (computed by adding interest expense, provision for income taxes, and depreciation and amortization expense to GAAP net income) and "debt leverage ratio" (calculated as the ratio of GAAP total debt to EBITDA) 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 20% for the fourth quarter of 2023 versus the fourth quarter of 2022. Volume grew 23%, partially offset by 3% lower net selling price. Full year product sales increased 9% versus 2022, driven by 15% volume growth, partially offset by 3% lower net selling price, 1% unfavorable changes from estimated sales deductions and 1% negative impact from foreign exchange. General Medicine Repatha® sales increased 25% year-over-year for the fourth quarter, driven by 35% volume growth, partially offset by lower net selling price. Full year sales increased 26%, driven by 37% volume growth, partially offset by lower net selling price. Repatha remains the global proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) segment leader, with over 2.5 million patients treated since launch. Prolia® sales increased 12% year-over-year, to a record $1.1 billion for the fourth quarter, and 12% for the full year, primarily driven by volume growth and higher net selling price. Volume grew 10% for the quarter and 9% for the full year. In 2023, over 7.5 million patients were treated with Prolia. EVENITY® sales increased 41% year-over-year to a record $318 million for the fourth quarter and 47% for the full year, driven by strong volume growth. U.S. volume grew 44% year-over-year and volume outside the U.S. grew 55% for the full year. Aimovig® (erenumab-aooe) sales decreased 32% year-over-year for the fourth quarter and 22% for the full year, driven by lower net selling price. Oncology BLINCYTO® sales increased 47% year-over-year to a record $241 million for the fourth quarter and 48% for the full year, driven by 55% and 49% volume growth, respectively. Volume growth was supported by broad prescribing across academic and community settings for patients with B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Vectibix® (panitumumab) sales increased 5% year-over-year for the fourth quarter and 10% for the full year, driven by 5% and 10% volume growth, respectively. KYPROLIS® (carfilzomib) sales increased 8% year-over-year for the fourth quarter and 13% for the full year, driven by 8% and 12% volume growth, respectively. LUMAKRAS®/LUMYKRAS™ (sotorasib) sales increased 8% year-over-year for the fourth quarter, driven by 5% volume growth and higher net selling price. Full year sales decreased 2%, driven by unfavorable changes to estimated sales deductions, including changes related to ongoing reimbursement negotiations in France. Full year sales were also impacted by lower net selling price and lower inventory levels, partially offset by 16% volume growth. XGEVA® (denosumab) sales increased 9% year-over-year for the fourth quarter and 5% for the full year, primarily driven by higher net selling price. Nplate® (romiplostim) sales decreased 18% year-over-year for the fourth quarter, driven by volume decline related to timing of orders placed by the U.S. government, partially offset by volume growth across our U.S. and ex-U.S. regions. U.S. government orders were $207 million in Q4'22 compared to $62 million in Q4'23. Full year sales increased 13%, primarily driven by volume growth, including U.S. government orders. U.S. government orders were $207 million for FY'22 compared to $286 million for FY'23. Excluding these U.S. government orders, Nplate sales grew 23% year-over-year for the fourth quarter and 8% for the full year. MVASI® (bevacizumab-awwb) sales decreased 8% year-over-year for the fourth quarter, primarily driven by lower net selling price, partially offset by 12% volume growth. Full year sales decreased 11%, primarily driven by lower net selling price, partially offset by 13% volume growth. Going forward, we expect continued net selling price erosion driven by increased competition. KANJINTI® (trastuzumab-anns) sales decreased 33% year-over-year for the fourth quarter and 50% for the full year, driven by lower net selling price and volume decline. Inflammation TEZSPIRE® (tezepelumab-ekko) generated $177 million of sales in the fourth quarter. Quarter-over-quarter sales increased 10%, driven by 18% volume growth that benefited from the pre-filled, single-use pen, which was approved for self-administration by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the first quarter. Healthcare providers recognize TEZSPIRE's unique, differentiated profile and its broad potential to treat the 2.5 million patients worldwide with severe asthma who are uncontrolled, without any phenotypic or biomarker limitation. Otezla® (apremilast) sales increased 2% year-over-year for the fourth quarter, driven by favorable changes to estimated sales deductions and 3% volume growth, partially offset by lower inventory levels and lower net selling price. Full year sales decreased 4%, driven by lower net selling price and lower inventory levels, partially offset by 2% volume growth. We expect future growth for Otezla to be driven by its established efficacy and safety profile, strong payer coverage with limited prior authorization requirements and ease of administration. Otezla remains the only approved oral systemic therapy with a broad indication and is well-positioned to help the 1.5 million U.S. patients with mild-to-moderate psoriasis who cannot be optimally addressed by a topical and can benefit from a systemic treatment like Otezla. Enbrel® (etanercept) sales decreased 8% year-over-year for the fourth quarter, driven by a 4% impact from unfavorable changes to estimated sales deductions and lower net selling price. Full year sales decreased 10%, driven by lower net selling price, lower inventory levels and a 3% impact from unfavorable changes to estimated sales deductions. Year-over-year volume remained flat, with U.S. volume growing 1% in the fourth quarter, supported by an increase in new patients starting treatment as a result of improved payer coverage. Going forward, we expect net selling price to continue to decline year-over-year, driven by higher rebates to maintain broad first-line payer coverage and changes in patient mix. We expect Otezla and Enbrel to follow the historical pattern of lower sales in the first quarter relative to subsequent quarters due to the impact of benefit plan changes, insurance reverification and increased co-pay expenses as U.S. patients work through deductibles. AMJEVITA®/AMGEVITA™ (adalimumab) sales increased 34% year-over-year for the fourth quarter and 36% for the full year, primarily driven by 35% and 46% volume growth, respectively. Ex-U.S. sales increased 9% for the full year, driven by 20% volume growth, partially offset by lower net selling price. U.S. sales increased 43% quarter-over-quarter, driven by higher inventory levels and higher net selling price, partially offset by volume decline. Rare Disease Excluding TAVNEOS®, the products listed below were acquired from our Horizon transaction on Oct. 6, 2023. Sales figures reflect only sales in the period from Oct. 6 2023 through the end of the year, and not the full quarter. TEPEZZA® (teprotumumab-trbw) generated $448 million of sales for the period. TEPEZZA is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for thyroid eye disease (TED). KRYSTEXXA® (pegloticase) generated $272 million of sales for the period. KRYSTEXXA is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for chronic refractory gout. UPLIZNA® (inebilizumab-cdon) generated $65 million of sales for the period. UPLIZNA is used to treat adults with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). TAVNEOS® (avacopan) generated $44 million of sales in the fourth quarter. Quarter-over-quarter sales increased 19%, primarily driven by volume growth. U.S. volume grew 23% quarter-over-quarter. In the U.S., approximately 2,700 patients have now been treated with TAVNEOS. Ultra rare products, which consist of RAVICTI® (glycerol phenylbutyrate), PROCYSBI® (cysteamine bitartrate), ACTIMMUNE® (interferon gamma-1b), BUPHENYL® (sodium phenylbutyrate) and QUINSAIR® (levofloxacin) generated $164 million of sales for the period. Established Products Total sales of our established products, which consist of EPOGEN® (epoetin alfa), Aranesp® (darbepoetin alfa), Parsabiv® (etelcalcetide) and Neulasta® (pegfilgrastim), decreased 10% year-over-year for the fourth quarter, primarily driven by lower net selling price and volume declines, partially offset by favorable changes to estimated sales deductions. Full year sales decreased 19%, driven by lower net selling price and volume declines. In the aggregate, we expect the year-over-year net selling price and volume declines for this portfolio of products to continue. Product Sales Detail by Product and Geographic Region Operating Expense, Operating Margin and Tax Rate Analysis On a GAAP basis: Total Operating Expenses increased 50% year-over-year for the fourth quarter. For the full year, Total Operating Expenses increased 21%. Cost of Sales as a percentage of product sales increased 13.0 percentage points in the fourth quarter primarily driven by higher amortization expense from acquisition-related assets as well as higher profit share and royalties, partially offset by Puerto Rico excise tax, changes in product mix, and lower manufacturing cost. For the full year, cost of sales as a percentage of product sales increased 5.6 percentage points primarily driven by higher amortization expense from acquisition-related assets, higher profit share and royalties, and changes in product mix, partially offset by Puerto Rico excise tax. Research & Development (R&D) expenses increased 16% in the fourth quarter and increased 8% for the full year driven by higher spend in later-stage clinical programs and marketed products support, including spend from programs acquired from the Horizon acquisition. Selling, General & Administrative (SG&A) expenses increased 45% in the fourth quarter and increased 14% for the full year primarily driven by higher acquisition-related costs, in addition to commercial and general administrative expenses related to the Horizon acquisition. For the full year, this was partially offset by a decline in other marketed product spend. Other operating expenses for the full year consisted of net impairment charges for AMG 340 and Teneobio IPR&D assets in addition to expenses related to our restructuring plan initiated in the first quarter of 2023. Operating Margin as a percentage of product sales decreased 17.8 percentage points to 16.2% in the fourth quarter and decreased 9.3 percentage points for the full year to 29.3%. Tax Rate increased 2.4 percentage points in the fourth quarter and increased 3.7 percentage points for the full year, primarily driven by the 2022 Puerto Rico tax law change that replaced the excise tax with an income tax beginning in 2023. For the fourth quarter this was partially offset by the change in earnings mix. On a non-GAAP basis: Total Operating Expenses increased 18% for the fourth quarter and increased 9% for the full year. Cost of Sales as a percentage of product sales remained flat in the fourth quarter primarily driven by higher profit share and royalties, offset by Puerto Rico excise tax, changes in product mix, and lower manufacturing cost. For the full year, cost of sales as a percentage of product sales increased 1.1 percentage points primarily driven by higher profit share and royalties and changes in product mix, partially offset by Puerto Rico excise tax. R&D expenses increased 16% in the fourth quarter and increased 8% for the full year driven by higher spend in later-stage clinical programs and marketed products support, including spend from programs acquired from the Horizon acquisition. SG&A expenses increased 20% in the fourth quarter and increased 5% for the full year primarily driven by higher commercial and general administrative expenses related to the Horizon acquisition. For the full year, this was partially offset by a decline in other marketed product spend. Operating Margin as a percentage of product sales increased 0.8 pts. percentage points to 46.7% in the fourth quarter and decreased 1.7 percentage points for the full year to 49.8%. Tax Rate increased 2.5 percentage points in the fourth quarter and increased 2.7 percentage points for the full year primarily due to the 2022 Puerto Rico tax law change that replaced the excise tax with an income tax beginning in 2023. Cash Flow and Balance Sheet The Company generated $0.3 billion of free cash flow in the fourth quarter of 2023 versus $2.3 billion in the fourth quarter of 2022, primarily driven by timing of federal and repatriation tax payments. The Company generated $7.4 billion of free cash flow for the full year 2023 versus $8.8 billion in 2022. The Company's fourth quarter 2023 dividend of $2.13 per share was declared on October 24, 2023, and was paid on December 8, 2023, to all stockholders of record as of November 17, 2023, representing a 10% increase from 2022. During the fourth quarter, there were no repurchases of shares of common stock. Cash and investments totaled $10.9 billion and debt outstanding totaled $64.6 billion as of December 31, 2023. Debt leverage was approximately 4.4 times EBITDA as of December 31, 2023. 2024 Guidance For the full year 2024, the Company expects: Total revenues in the range of $32.4 billion to $33.8 billion. On a GAAP basis, EPS in the range of $8.42 to $9.87, and a tax rate in the range of 11.5% to 13.0%. On a non-GAAP basis, EPS in the range of $18.90 to $20.30, and a tax rate in the range of 16.0% to 17.0%. Capital expenditures to be approximately $1.1 billion. Share repurchases not to exceed $500 million. Fourth Quarter Product and Pipeline Update The Company provided the following updates on selected product and pipeline programs: General Medicine Maridebart cafraglutide (AMG 133) A Phase 2 study of maridebart cafraglutide, a multispecific molecule that inhibits the gastric inhibitory polypeptide receptor (GIPR) and activates the glucagon like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor, in overweight or obese adults with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus has completed enrollment, with topline data anticipated in late 2024. The Company recently added a Part 2 to this study which explores durable weight loss beyond 52 weeks. Planning for a comprehensive Phase 3 program across multiple indications remains on track. In February 2024, results of preclinical studies and the Phase 1 study of maridebart cafraglutide were published in Nature Metabolism. AMG 786 A Phase 1 study of AMG 786, a small molecule obesity program, is ongoing with initial data readout anticipated in H1 2024. This molecule has a different target than maridebart cafraglutide and is not an incretin-based therapy. Olpasiran (AMG 890) A Phase 3 cardiovascular outcomes study of olpasiran, a potentially best-in-class small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) molecule that reduces lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) synthesis in the liver, in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and elevated Lp(a) continues to enroll patients. To date, over 7,000 patients have been enrolled, with enrollment completion anticipated in H1 2024. Repatha EVOLVE-MI, a Phase 4 study of Repatha administered within 10 days of an acute myocardial infarction to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, continues to enroll patients. A Phase 3 cardiovascular outcomes study (VESALIUS-CV) in patients at high cardiovascular risk without prior myocardial infarction or stroke is ongoing. Oncology Tarlatamab (AMG 757) The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Priority Review for the Company's Biologics License Application (BLA) for tarlatamab, a first-in-class investigational delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3) targeting BiTE® (bispecific T-cell engager) molecule. The BLA is based on the results from the Phase 2 DeLLphi-301 clinical trial, which demonstrated antitumor activity with a durable response and encouraging survival outcomes in previously treated small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The safety profile was consistent with the Phase 1 trial. Based on the Priority Review designation, the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) date for tarlatamab is June 12, 2024. DeLLphi-304, a Phase 3 study comparing tarlatamab with standard of care chemotherapy in second-line SCLC, continues to enroll patients. DeLLphi-306, a Phase 3 study comparing tarlatamab with placebo in limited-stage SCLC, was initiated. DeLLphi-305, a Phase 3 study comparing tarlatamab and durvalumab with durvalumab alone in first-line, extensive-stage SCLC, will be initiated in H1 2024. DeLLphi-300, a Phase 1 study of tarlatamab in relapsed/refractory SCLC, continues to enroll patients. DeLLphi-302, a Phase 1b study of tarlatamab in combination with AMG 404, an anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) monoclonal antibody, in second-line or later SCLC, is ongoing.   DeLLphi-303, a Phase 1b study of tarlatamab in combination with standard of care in first-line SCLC, continues to enroll patients. DeLLpro-300, a Phase 1b study of tarlatamab in de novo or treatment-emergent neuroendocrine prostate cancer, is ongoing. BLINCYTO The FDA granted Priority Review for the Company's supplemental BLA for BLINCYTO in early-stage, CD19-positive B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) based in part on the Phase 3 E1910 study conducted by the National Cancer Institute, the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group and the American College of Radiology Imaging Network Cancer Research Group. Based on the Priority Review designation, the PDUFA date for BLINCYTO is June 21, 2024. Additional global regulatory authority submissions are underway. Golden Gate, a Phase 3 study of BLINCYTO alternating with low-intensity chemotherapy in older adults with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-negative (Ph-) B-ALL, continues to enroll patients. The Company is planning to amend the Golden Gate Phase 3 study to include an evaluation of blinatumomab subcutaneous administration with initiation anticipated in H2 2024. A Phase 1/2 study of subcutaneous blinatumomab in adults with relapsed or refractory Ph- B-ALL continues to enroll patients. Xaluritamig (AMG 509) A Phase 1b monotherapy and combination dose-escalation and -expansion study of xaluritamig, a first-in-class bispecific T-cell engager targeting six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 1 (STEAP1) in metastatic castrate resistant prostate cancer continues to enroll patients in the dose-expansion portion of the study, where enrollment is almost complete. A reduced monitoring cohort was also initiated. Two additional Phase 1 studies of xaluritamig to evaluate preliminary efficacy and safety in patients with early prostate cancer are planned. AMG 193 The Phase 1/1b/2 study of AMG 193, a first-in-class small molecule methylthioadenosine (MTA)-cooperative protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) inhibitor, continues to enroll patients with advanced methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP)-null solid tumors. To date, responses have been seen in nine patients across seven tumor types. Master protocols in thoracic and gastrointestinal malignancies exploring combinations with standard of care will be initiated in H1 2024. A Phase 1/2 study of AMG 193 in combination with IDE397, an investigational methionine adenosyltransferase 2A (MAT2A) inhibitor, is enrolling patients. Nplate A Phase 3 study of Nplate in chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia in gastrointestinal, pancreatic, or colorectal malignancies is fully enrolled. Data readout is anticipated in H2 2024. LUMAKRAS/LUMYKRAS A U.S. regulatory submission is planned for the Phase 3 CodeBreaK 300 trial in H1 2024. This study evaluated two doses of LUMAKRAS (960 mg or 240 mg) in combination with Vectibix in patients with chemorefractory KRAS G12C-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). A Phase 3 study of LUMAKRAS in combination with Vectibix and FOLFIRI in first-line KRAS G12C-mutated CRC was initiated. A Phase 3 study of LUMAKRAS plus chemotherapy vs. pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy in first-line KRAS G12C-mutated and programmed cell death protein ligand-1 (PD-L1) negative advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is enrolling patients. Regulatory review by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) of the CodeBreaK 200 Phase 3 trial of adults with previously treated locally advanced or metastatic KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC along with data from the Phase 2 dose-comparison substudy is ongoing. The FDA completed its review of the Company's supplemental New Drug Application seeking full approval of LUMAKRAS based on the CodeBreaK 200 trial results. The FDA issued a new postmarketing requirement for an additional confirmatory study to support full approval to be completed no later than February 2028, while also concluding that LUMAKRAS at 960 mg once-daily will remain the dose for patients with KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC under accelerated approval. Bemarituzumab FORTITUDE-101, a Phase 3 study of bemarituzumab, a first-in-class fibroblast growth factor receptor 2b (FGFR2b) targeting monoclonal antibody, plus chemotherapy in first-line gastric cancer, continues to enroll patients. FORTITUDE-102, a Phase 1b/3 study of bemarituzumab plus chemotherapy and nivolumab in first-line gastric cancer, continues to enroll patients in the Phase 3 portion of the study. FORTITUDE-103, a Phase 1b/2 study of bemarituzumab plus oral chemotherapy regimens with or without nivolumab in first-line gastric cancer, continues to enroll patients. FORTITUDE-301, a Phase 1b/2 basket study of bemarituzumab monotherapy in solid tumors with FGFR2b overexpression, is ongoing. Inflammation TEZSPIRE In severe asthma, the WAYFINDER Phase 3b study is fully enrolled. The PASSAGE Phase 4 real-world effectiveness study and the SUNRISE Phase 3 study continue to enroll patients. A Phase 3 study of TEZSPIRE in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps is fully enrolled. Primary analysis is anticipated in H2 2024. A Phase 3 study of TEZSPIRE in eosinophilic esophagitis continues to enroll patients. A Phase 2 study of TEZSPIRE in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is fully enrolled. Data readout is anticipated in H1 2024. Rocatinlimab (AMG 451/KHK4083) The ROCKET Phase 3 program, now composed of eight studies evaluating rocatinlimab, a first in class monoclonal antibody targeting OX40, in moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, continues to enroll adult and adolescent patients. To date, over 2,400 patients have been enrolled in the ROCKET program. The Phase 3 HORIZON study (part of the ROCKET program) evaluating rocatinlimab monotherapy vs. placebo in adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis is fully enrolled. Data readout is anticipated in H2 2024. A Phase 2 study of rocatinlimab in asthma will be initiated in H1 2024 and a Phase 3 study of rocatinlimab in prurigo nodularis will be initiated in H2 2024. Otezla In November 2023, data were presented from the MOSAIC and FOREMOST studies: In the MOSAIC Phase 4 study, primary and key secondary outcomes highlighted that Otezla led to better inflammatory disease control in psoriatic arthritis patients with moderate clinical disease activity than in patients with high disease activity. In the FOREMOST Phase 4 study, Otezla when added to standard of care, significantly improved disease activity in patients with early oligoarticular (few joints involved) psoriatic arthritis at 16 weeks compared to placebo. Efavaleukin alfa (AMG 592) A Phase 2b study of efavaleukin alfa, an interleukin 2 (IL 2) mutein Fc fusion protein, in ulcerative colitis continues to enroll patients. Ordesekimab (AMG 714/PRV-015) A Phase 2b study of AMG 714, a monoclonal antibody that binds interleukin-15, in nonresponsive celiac disease has completed enrollment. Rare Disease TAVNEOS In November 2023, data were presented from the Phase 3 ADVOCATE trial demonstrating that outcomes in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis favored TAVNEOS versus a prednisone taper across subgroups of patients 65 years and older, patients with kidney involvement and albuminuria, and patients with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage at baseline. TEPEZZA In December 2023, TEPEZZA received orphan drug designation in Japan for patients with moderate to severe active thyroid eye disease (TED). A New Drug Application was submitted for TEPEZZA in Japan based on the results from the OPTIC-J study evaluating TEPEZZA in patients with active TED. A Phase 3 study of TEPEZZA in Japan for chronic or low clinical activity score (CAS) TED continues to enroll patients. The Company plans to initiate a Phase 3 study evaluating the subcutaneous route of administration of TEPEZZA in patients with TED in H1 2024. UPLIZNA A Phase 3 study of UPLIZNA in myasthenia gravis is fully enrolled. Data readout is anticipated in H2 2024. A Phase 3 study of UPLIZNA for the prevention of flare in immunoglobulin G4- (IgG4) related disease is fully enrolled. Data readout is anticipated in H2 2024. Dazodalibep A Phase 3 study of dazodalibep, a cluster of differentiation 40 (CD40) ligand inhibitor fusion protein in Sjögren's syndrome is enrolling patients. Daxdilimab A Phase 2 study of daxdilimab, a fully human monoclonal antibody targeting immunoglobulin-like transcript 7 (ILT7), in moderate-to-severe active primary discoid lupus erythematosus refractory to standard of care is enrolling patients. A Phase 2 study of daxdilimab in dermatomyositis and antisynthetase inflammatory myositis is enrolling patients. Fipaxalparant (formerly AMG 670 / HZN 825) A Phase 2 study of fipaxalparant, a lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 (LPAR1) antagonist, in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is enrolling patients. Data readout is anticipated in H2 2024. A Phase 2 study of fipaxalparant in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis is enrolling patients. Biosimilars The clinical comparative study portion of a randomized, double-blind pivotal study evaluating pharmacokinetic (PK) similarity of ABP 206 compared with OPDIVO® (nivolumab) in resected stage III or stage IV melanoma patients in the adjuvant setting is enrolling patients. 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, a Sanofi Company. For the purposes of the collaboration, Provention Bio conducts a clinical trial and leads certain development and regulatory activities for the program. Xaluritamig, formerly AMG 509, is being developed pursuant to a research collaboration with Xencor, Inc. IDE397 is an investigational MAT2A inhibitor from IDEAYA Biosciences. OPDIVO is a registered trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. Non-GAAP Financial Measures In this news release, management has presented its operating results for the fourth quarters and full years of 2023 and 2022, in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and on a non-GAAP basis. In addition, management has presented its full year 2024 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, divestitures, restructuring and certain other items from the related GAAP financial measures. Beginning January 1, 2022, following industry guidance from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the Company no longer excludes adjustments for upfront license fees, development milestones and in-process research and development (IPR&D) expenses of pre-approval programs related to licensing, collaboration and asset acquisition transactions from its non-GAAP financial measures. Management has presented Free Cash Flow (FCF), which is a non-GAAP financial measure, for the fourth quarters and full years of 2023 and 2022. FCF is computed by subtracting capital expenditures from operating cash flow, each as determined in accordance with GAAP. Management has also presented Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) and debt leverage ratio for 2023, both of which are non-GAAP financial measures. EBITDA is computed by adding interest expense, provision for income taxes, and depreciation and amortization expense to GAAP net income. Debt leverage ratio is calculated as the ratio of GAAP total debt to EBITDA. 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 normal and recurring business activities by facilitating comparisons of results of normal and recurring business operations among current, past and future periods. The Company believes that FCF provides a further measure of the Company's liquidity. The Company believes its debt leverage ratio provides a supplemental operating metric for the full year period as it compares the amount of cash generated by our operations for the year. 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. About Amgen Amgen is committed to unlocking the potential of biology for patients suffering from serious illnesses by discovering, developing, manufacturing and delivering innovative human therapeutics. This approach begins by using tools like advanced human genetics to unravel the complexities of disease and understand the fundamentals of human biology. Amgen focuses on areas of high unmet medical need and leverages its expertise to strive for solutions that improve health outcomes and dramatically improve people's lives. A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen has grown to be one of the world's leading independent biotechnology companies, has reached millions of patients around the world and is developing a pipeline of medicines with breakaway potential. Amgen is one of the 30 companies that comprise the Dow Jones Industrial Average and is also part of the Nasdaq-100 index. In 2023, Amgen was named one of "America's Greatest Workplaces" by Newsweek, one of "America's Climate Leaders" by USA Today and one of the "World's Best Companies" by TIME. For more information, visit Amgen.com and follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Threads. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on the current expectations and beliefs of Amgen. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including any statements on the outcome, benefits and synergies of collaborations, or potential collaborations, with any other company (including BeiGene, Ltd. or Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd.), the performance of Otezla® (apremilast) (including anticipated Otezla sales growth and the timing of non-GAAP EPS accretion), our acquisitions of Teneobio, Inc., ChemoCentryx, Inc., or Horizon (including the prospective performance and outlook of Horizon's business, performance and opportunities and any potential strategic benefits, synergies or opportunities expected as a result of such acquisition, and any projected impacts from the Horizon acquisition on our acquisition-related expenses going forward), as well as estimates of revenues, operating margins, capital expenditures, cash, other financial metrics, expected legal, arbitration, political, regulatory or clinical results or practices, customer and prescriber patterns or practices, reimbursement activities and outcomes, effects of pandemics or other widespread health problems on our business, outcomes, progress, and other such estimates and results. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, including those discussed below and more fully described in the Securities and Exchange Commission reports filed by Amgen, including our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent periodic reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Unless otherwise noted, Amgen is providing this information as of the date of this news release and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this document as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results may differ materially from those we project. Our results may be affected by our ability to successfully market both new and existing products domestically and internationally, clinical and regulatory developments involving current and future products, sales growth of recently launched products, competition from other products including biosimilars, difficulties or delays in manufacturing our products and global economic conditions. In addition, sales of our products are affected by pricing pressure, political and public scrutiny and reimbursement policies imposed by third-party payers, including governments, private insurance plans and managed care providers and may be affected by regulatory, clinical and guideline developments and domestic and international trends toward managed care and healthcare cost containment. Furthermore, our research, testing, pricing, marketing and other operations are subject to extensive regulation by domestic and foreign government regulatory authorities. We or others could identify safety, side effects or manufacturing problems with our products, including our devices, after they are on the market. Our business may be impacted by government investigations, litigation and product liability claims. In addition, our business may be impacted by the adoption of new tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities. If we fail to meet the compliance obligations in the corporate integrity agreement between us and the U.S. government, we could become subject to significant sanctions. Further, while we routinely obtain patents for our products and technology, the protection offered by our patents and patent applications may be challenged, invalidated or circumvented by our competitors, or we may fail to prevail in present and future intellectual property litigation. We perform a substantial amount of our commercial manufacturing activities at a few key facilities, including in Puerto Rico, and also depend on third parties for a portion of our manufacturing activities, and limits on supply may constrain sales of certain of our current products and product candidate development. An outbreak of disease or similar public health threat, such as COVID-19, and the public and governmental effort to mitigate against the spread of such disease, could have a significant adverse effect on the supply of materials for our manufacturing activities, the distribution of our products, the commercialization of our product candidates, and our clinical trial operations, and any such events may have a material adverse effect on our product development, product sales, business and results of operations. We rely on collaborations with third parties for the development of some of our product candidates and for the commercialization and sales of some of our commercial products. In addition, we compete with other companies with respect to many of our marketed products as well as for the discovery and development of new products. Discovery or identification of new product candidates or development of new indications for existing products cannot be guaranteed and movement from concept to product is uncertain; consequently, there can be no guarantee that any particular product candidate or development of a new indication for an existing product will be successful and become a commercial product. Further, some raw materials, medical devices and component parts for our products are supplied by sole third-party suppliers. Certain of our distributors, customers and payers have substantial purchasing leverage in their dealings with us. The discovery of significant problems with a product similar to one of our products that implicate an entire class of products could have a material adverse effect on sales of the affected products and on our business and results of operations. Our efforts to collaborate with or acquire other companies, products or technology, and to integrate the operations of companies or to support the products or technology we have acquired, may not be successful. There can be no guarantee that we will be able to realize any of the strategic benefits, synergies or opportunities arising from the Horizon acquisition, and such benefits, synergies or opportunities may take longer to realize than expected. We may not be able to successfully integrate Horizon, and such integration may take longer, be more difficult or cost more than expected. A breakdown, cyberattack or information security breach of our information technology systems could compromise the confidentiality, integrity and availability of our systems and our data. Our stock price is volatile and may be affected by a number of events. Our business and operations may be negatively affected by the failure, or perceived failure, of achieving our environmental, social and governance objectives. The effects of global climate change and related natural disasters could negatively affect our business and operations. Global economic conditions may magnify certain risks that affect our business. Our business performance could affect or limit the ability of our Board of Directors to declare a dividend or our ability to pay a dividend or repurchase our common stock. We may not be able to access the capital and credit markets on terms that are favorable to us, or at all. ### CONTACT: Amgen, Thousand Oaks Jessica Akopyan, 805-440-5721 (media) Justin Claeys, 805-313-9775 (investors) * The known adjustments are presented net of their related tax impact, which amount to approximately $2.60 per share. (a) The adjustments include noncash amortization of intangible assets and fair value step-up of inventory acquired in business combinations. Our GAAP diluted EPS guidance does not include the effect of GAAP adjustments triggered by events that may occur subsequent to this press release such as acquisitions, asset impairments, litigation, changes in fair value of our contingent consideration obligations and changes in fair value of our equity investments. SOURCE Amgen

An experimental study has shown that a type of skin bacterium can efficiently be engineered to produce a protein to regulate sebum production. This application could treat acne without compromising the homeostasis of the entire skin microbiome. International research led by the Translational Synthetic Biology Laboratory of the Department of Medicine and Life Sciences (MELIS) at Pompeu Fabra University has succeeded in efficiently engineering Cutibacterium acnes -a type of skin bacterium- to produce and secrete a therapeutic molecule suitable for treating acne symptoms. The engineered bacterium has been validated in skin cell lines and its delivery has been validated in mice. This finding opens the door to broadening the way for engineering non-tractable bacteria to address skin alterations and other diseases using living therapeutics. The research team is completed by scientists from the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (Idibell), the University of Barcelona, the Protein Technologies Facility of the Centre for Genomic Regulation, Phenocell SAS, Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Lund University, and Aarhus University. Acne is a common skin condition caused by the blockage or inflammation of the pilosebaceous follicles. Its appearance can vary, ranging from whiteheads and blackheads to pustules and nodules, mainly on the face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders. Although acne is most common among adolescents, it can affect people of all ages. The most severe cases of acne are treated with antibiotics to kill bacteria living in the follicles, or isotretinoin (known as Accutane), a vitamin A derivative, which induces the death of sebocytes, the epithelial skin cells that produce sebum. However, these treatments can cause serious side effects such as breaking skin microbiome homeostasis -because they are not selectively killing bacteria- or photosensitivity, in the case of antibiotics, or birth defects or extreme scaling of skin, in the case of isotretinoin. The results of the study, published today in Nature Biotechnology, show that researchers have successfully edited the genome of Cutibacterium acnes to secrete and produce NGAL protein known to be a mediator of the acne drug, isotretinoin, that has been shown to reduce sebum by inducing the death of sebocytes. "We have developed a topical therapy with a targeted approach, using what nature already has. We engineered a bacterium that lives in the skin and make it produce what our skin needs. Here, we focused on treating acne, but this platform can be extended to several other indications," says Nastassia Knödlseder, first author of the study. Broadening the way of engineering bacteria "Until now, C. acnes was considered an intractable bacterium. It was incredibly difficult to introduce DNA and get proteins produced or secreted from an element inserted into its genome," explains Knödlseder, who is a postdoc in the UPF Translational Synthetic Biology Laboratory. However, since C. acnes seems an attractive synthetic biology chassis for treating skin diseases due to its niche environment deep inside hair follicles -practically where sebum is released-, its importance for skin homeostasis, its close contact to relevant therapeutic targets, plus the fact that it has been shown to successfully engraft when applied to human skin, led them to insist on editing the genome of this non-engineerable bacterium. To edit the genome of C. acnes, the research team led by Marc Güell has focused on improving DNA delivery to the cell, DNA stability inside the cell, and gene expression. The scientists have considered regulatory measures by developing a biocontainment strategy to avoid the use of elements that generate regulatory concerns such as mobile genetic elements, plasmids or antibiotic resistance. Hence, the resulting synthetic bacterium has safety features to enable "real-life application" and consider it for future human therapeutics. Synthetic C. acnes is able to secrete and produce NGAL to modulate sebum production in cell lines. When applied to the skin of mice -the only animal model able to test engineered bacteria to date- they engraft, live and produce the protein. However, mice skin it is not comparable to humans'. It has more hair, is looser, has less lipids and a different sweat mechanism. Hence the need for an alternative model, better representing human skin, such as 3D skin models. The road to therapeutics "We have developed a technology platform that opens the door to editing any bacteria to treat multiple diseases. We are now focused in using C. acnes to treat acne but we can deliver genetic circuits to create smart microbes for applications related to skin sensing, or immune modulation," points out Marc Güell, who has led the research. Following the same strategy, this research line will continue under the European Project 'SkinDev' in which scientists from the Translational Synthetic Biology lab together with its partners will engineer C. acnes to address atopic dermatitis, a chronic cutaneous inflammatory condition characterized by dry skin, eczema and severe irritation, especially common among young children. Although any living therapeutics strategy should be validated individually, the researchers show their optimism in applying these smart microbes to humans because non-engineered C. acnes has already been tested on the skin of patients safely and effectively.

--Povetacicept Superior to Wild-Type TACI-Fc and B-cell Depletion in a Preclinical Model of Lupus-- -- Initiation of Phase 2 SLE Study Planned for 2H 2024 -- SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Alpine Immune Sciences Inc. (NASDAQ: ALPN), a leading clinical-stage immunotherapy company focused on developing innovative treatments for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, announced today that the Company presented new translational data for povetacicept (ALPN-303) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) at the American College of Rheumatology Convergence 2023, November 10-15, 2023. Povetacicept Presentation Highlights Include: In SLE patients, BAFF- and APRIL-related genes (i.e., BAFF, APRIL, TACI, and BCMA) are increased in myeloid lineage cells and B cells compared to healthy adults. Povetacicept, as compared to single BAFF or APRIL pathway inhibitors, more potently downregulates genes associated with activation in B cells. Povetacicept significantly reduces multiple disease parameters in a mouse model of lupus, more effectively than WT TACI-Fc or conventional B cell depletion. “SLE is a serious, potentially fatal disease with few approved and effective treatment options,” said Stanford Peng, M.D., Ph.D., President and Head of Research and Development at Alpine. “BAFF and APRIL have been heavily implicated in its pathogenesis, and these data indicate that potent inhibition of both may be required to achieve optimal efficacy. Along with the encouraging clinical data we presented earlier this week with povetacicept in glomerulonephritis, particularly IgA nephropathy, we look forward to advancing povetacicept into a phase 2 clinical study in SLE next year.” American College of Rheumatology Convergence 2023 Date/Time: Tuesday, November 14, 2023, 9:00 am – 11:00 am PT Poster Title: Upregulation of Both APRIL and BAFF in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Suggests Non-Redundant Roles, Further Revealed by Dual Inhibition with Povetacicept (ALPN-303) Abstract ID: 1553950 Session Name: SLE – Treatment Poster III Location: Exhibit Hall, San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, CA Presenter: Tiffany Blair, Ph.D., Alpine Immune Sciences Link to Poster: About Povetacicept (ALPN-303) Povetacicept (ALPN-303) is a dual antagonist of the BAFF (B cell activating factor) and APRIL (a proliferation inducing ligand) cytokines, which play key roles in pathogenesis of multiple autoimmune diseases via their roles in the activation, differentiation and/or survival of B cells, particularly antibody-secreting cells, as well as T cells and innate immune cells. Based upon an engineered TACI (transmembrane activator and CAML interactor) domain, povetacicept has exhibited greater potency in preclinical studies versus wild-type TACI-based comparators, as well as other inhibitors of BAFF and/or APRIL alone and B cell depletion. Povetacicept is in development for multiple autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, IgA nephropathy and other autoimmune kidney diseases, and autoimmune cytopenias. About Alpine Immune Sciences Alpine Immune Sciences is committed to leading a new wave of immune therapeutics. With world-class research and development capabilities, a highly productive scientific platform, and a proven management team, Alpine is seeking to create first- or best-in-class multifunctional immunotherapies via unique protein engineering technologies to improve patients’ lives. Alpine has entered into strategic collaborations with leading global biopharmaceutical companies and has a diverse pipeline of clinical and preclinical candidates in development. For more information, visit . Follow @AlpineImmuneSci on X and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statements This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical fact and include statements regarding our platform technology and potential therapies; the timing of and results from clinical trials and preclinical development activities; clinical and regulatory objectives and the timing thereof; expectations regarding the sufficiency of cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and investments to fund our planned operations through 2025; the potential efficacy, safety profile, future development plans, addressable market, regulatory success, and commercial potential of our product candidates; our ability to achieve additional milestones in our collaborations and proprietary programs; the progress and potential of our ongoing development programs; the timing of our public presentations and potential publication of future clinical data; the efficacy of our clinical trial designs; anticipated enrollment in our clinical trials and the timing thereof; expectations regarding our ongoing collaborations; and our ability to successfully develop and achieve milestones in our development programs. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “plan,” “intend,” and other similar expressions, among others. These forward-looking statements are based on current assumptions that involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, events, or developments to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, include, but are not limited to: clinical trials may not demonstrate safety and efficacy of any of our product candidates; our ongoing discovery and preclinical efforts may not yield additional product candidates; our discovery-stage and preclinical programs may not advance into the clinic or result in approved products; any of our product candidates may fail in development, may not receive required regulatory approvals, or may be delayed to a point where they are not commercially viable; we may not achieve additional milestones in our proprietary or partnered programs; the impact of competition; adverse conditions in the general domestic and global economic markets; the impact of pandemics, or other related health crises on our business, research and clinical development plans and timelines and results of operations, including the impact on our clinical trial sites, collaborators, and contractors who act for or on our behalf; as well as the other risks identified in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof and we undertake no obligation to update forward-looking statements, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.