FDA Accepts GSK Filing for Expanded Use of RSV Shot in Younger Adults

Core Insights - GSK's RSV vaccine, Arexvy, has received FDA acceptance for expanded use in high-risk adults under 50, with a final decision expected in the first half of 2026 [1][2] - Arexvy is currently approved for individuals aged 60 and older, and for high-risk individuals aged 50-59, and if approved for the younger demographic, it will be the third FDA-approved RSV vaccine for this age group [2][9] - GSK's stock has performed well, gaining 13% year-to-date compared to a 1% decline in the industry [4] Regulatory Developments - A similar regulatory filing for Arexvy was accepted by the EMA, with approval anticipated early next year [3] - The filing is backed by late-stage study data demonstrating Arexvy's safety profile consistent with previous studies [2][8] Sales Performance - Arexvy's sales declined by 51% year-over-year to £590 million (approximately $755 million) in full-year 2024, primarily due to narrower vaccination recommendations from the U.S. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) [6][8] - The ACIP recommended Arexvy for adults aged 75 and older, but limited vaccination for those aged 60-74 to individuals at increased risk, reducing the eligible population [7][8] Competitive Landscape - GSK's competitive position has weakened as Pfizer and Moderna have gained broader regulatory approvals for their RSV vaccines, covering high-risk individuals aged 18-74 [9] - The CDC has updated guidelines to recommend vaccination for high-risk adults aged 50-59, a group for which Arexvy is already approved, improving the outlook for the upcoming RSV season [10] - All three vaccine-makers, GSK, Pfizer, and Moderna, are on relatively equal footing due to the absence of CDC guidance for high-risk adults under 50, with pending regulatory decisions likely to influence market dynamics [11]