When will Merck's new drug be available in pharmacies?

Merck has not yet announced the launch date or price; details are expected soon.

How is Merck's drug different from statins?

The new drug is more potent in lowering cholesterol than statins and is the first oral treatment to surpass them in efficacy.

Merck Wins FDA Approval for First Pill That Beats Statins in Lowering Cholesterol

Q: Which companies compete with Merck in this area?

Main competitors are Amgen (AMGN) and Regeneron (REGN), which offer injectable drugs like PCSK9 inhibitors.

Merck & Co. (MRK) announced FDA approval of a first-in-class oral pill that lowers LDL cholesterol more effectively than statins, which are used by a quarter of adults to reduce heart attack and stroke risk. The drug could become a blockbuster for Merck.

July 16, 2026

2 min read

Source: Barrons.com

Merck & Co. (NYSE: MRK) has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for the first oral pill that lowers blood cholesterol significantly more than statins, according to a report by Barron's.

The Product

This is the first oral medication to demonstrate superior cholesterol-lowering efficacy compared to statins, which are taken by about a quarter of adults to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Merck has not yet disclosed the brand name or dosage details.

Pricing and Availability

Merck has not announced the price or launch timeline. The company is expected to provide these details in the coming weeks.

Competition

Merck faces competition from Amgen (AMGN) and Regeneron (REGN), which offer injectable cholesterol-lowering drugs such as PCSK9 inhibitors. However, Merck's oral formulation may improve patient adherence.

Potential Impact on Merck

The new drug is expected to significantly boost Merck's revenue, especially if competitively priced. It could also reshape the cholesterol treatment landscape and reduce reliance on statins.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is the first oral pill that lowers LDL cholesterol more effectively than statins, and it received FDA approval.

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This article was rewritten in Wrqti's editorial style based on information from the original source above. Content is informational only — not investment advice.