Piper Sandler has maintained its positive stance on Amgen (NASDAQ: NASDAQ:AMGN), reiterating an Overweight rating and a price target of $344.00.
The firm's assessment follows Amgen's recent Phase 3 updates on two potential growth drivers: rocatinlimab, an OX40 receptor targeting monoclonal antibody, and Uplizna, a CD19 targeting monoclonal antibody currently approved for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and being developed for further indications.
The updates presented by Amgen have led to mixed reactions. Piper Sandler noted that the results for rocatinlimab in the Horizon study were underwhelming, aligning with the firm's previous decision not to include this drug in its financial forecasts for Amgen.
On the other hand, the data for Uplizna in treating generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) provided a more nuanced picture. While comparisons to argenx's Vyvgart are challenging based on the current information, Piper Sandler believes that Vyvgart will maintain its status as the first-line biologic treatment.
Despite the difficult comparison, Piper Sandler remains optimistic about Uplizna's potential as a secondary line therapy for gMG. The firm's commentary suggests confidence in Amgen's portfolio, particularly with Uplizna's promise in its expanded indications.
In other recent news, Amgen has seen significant developments in its portfolio of treatments. The company disclosed positive Phase 3 updates for two key pipeline programs, Uplizna and rocatinlimab, as reported by Truist Securities, which maintained a Buy rating on Amgen with a steady price target of $320.00. However, Baird reaffirmed its underperform rating on Amgen shares, citing underwhelming results from the rocatinlimab study in atopic dermatitis.
In addition, Amgen's TEPEZZA, a non-surgical, non-steroidal treatment for thyroid eye disease, has received approval in Japan, marking its first approval in Asia. Also, the FDA approved Amgen's Otezla, the first oral medication for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in children and adolescents, following a Phase 3 trial that showed significant improvement in 33.1% of patients.
Analysts from TD Cowen and Oppenheimer have maintained positive ratings on Amgen, reflecting confidence in the company's drug candidate, MariTide. However, Medicare's decision to negotiate prices for 10 costly drugs, including Amgen's Enbrel, as part of the Biden administration's Inflation Reduction Act, could potentially impact Amgen's financial health.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.