Ocrevus: Sustaining Market Dominance in Multiple Sclerosis

Despite increased competition, Ocrevus, Roche's flagship multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment, maintained its position as the market leader in the United States during Q2. The drug's sales grew 8% YoY, fueled by new patients and higher retention rates compared to other MS medications – a trend observed globally.

Beyond the US, Ocrevus sales growth in key markets such as the United Kingdom, Germany, Brazil, and Canada, also reflects rising demand. Roche's commitment to enhancing patient convenience and adherence has been further reinforced by the anticipated FDA approval of a subcutaneous formulation of Ocrevus.

The subcutaneous version of Ocrevus received European Medicines Agency (EMA) approval earlier this summer based on data from the Phase 3 OCARINA II study presented at the American Academy of Neurology. The subcutaneous formulation demonstrated consistent efficacy with the reigning intravenous formulation. Notably, the subcutaneous formulation requires only a 10-minute administration time, a significant improvement over the 2.5-4 hour infusion time required for the intravenous formulation.

While Ocrevus faces competition from Novartis' Kesimpta and looming patent expirations in 2028/2029, Roche's subcutaneous formulation could provide a compelling advantage. The once-every-six-months dosing schedule for subcutaneous Ocrevus offers a distinct advantage over Kesimpta's monthly subcutaneous injections.

Vabysmo: Driving Growth in Ophthalmology

Vabysmo, Roche's ophthalmology therapy, emerged as a major growth driver for the Pharmaceuticals Division in the first half of 2024, accounting for approximately 75% of the division's overall growth. The drug achieved an impressive 79.3% YoY sales growth in Q2, driven by high global uptake among newly diagnosed patients and those transitioning from other treatment options.

In the United States, Vabysmo witnessed a continuing high uptake, with a significant increase in market share across all indications. The rollout of Vabysmo in Europe continued, with significant uptake in recently launched markets such as France, Spain, and Italy, as well as sustained growth in the United Kingdom and Germany. Sales also increased in the International region, driven by Canada, China, and Australia.

Evrysdi: Advancing Spinal Muscular Atrophy Treatment

Evrysdi, Roche's oral treatment for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), continued its upward trajectory, recording a 40% YoY Q2 growth. As the only oral, non-invasive small molecule SMA treatment designed for systemic delivery to both the central nervous system and peripheral tissues, Evrysdi offers a unique advantage in the management of this debilitating condition.

Evrysdi is currently undergoing evaluation for new indications and long-term safety in additional clinical trials, further solidifying Roche's commitment to advancing SMA treatment and improving patient outcomes.

HER2 Oncology Franchise: Phesgo Driving Growth

In Roche's HER2 oncology franchise, the fixed-dose combination Phesgo (Perjeta + Herceptin) emerged as a strong asset, recording an impressive 48% YoY Q2 sales growth. This growth was driven by the ongoing conversion of patients to Phesgo as the preferred treatment option over its individual components, Perjeta and Herceptin. One of the most notable advantages of Phesgo is its rapid administration time of 5-8 minutes, a significant reduction compared to the 60-150 minutes required for conventional IV infusion.

Overall, Roche's Pharmaceutical Division demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of increasing competition and patent expirations. The company's strategic initiatives, including the development of innovative formulations and expansion into new indications, have positioned it for continued growth in various therapeutic areas.