Why Neurocrine Stock Was Spooked Despite Its Big Quarterly Beat

Core Insights - Neurocrine Biosciences reported strong third-quarter sales, exceeding analyst expectations for both Ingrezza and Crenessity, with total sales reaching $790 million, a 28% increase year-over-year [5] - Ingrezza sales were $687 million, up 12% year-over-year, while Crenessity generated $98 million, significantly surpassing forecasts of $68 million [1][2] - Despite the strong performance, Neurocrine's stock faced pressure due to concerns over salesforce expansion, slow uptake of Crenessity, and ongoing investigations by the Department of Justice [3] Financial Performance - Total sales for Neurocrine Biosciences were $790 million, exceeding the projected $747 million, with adjusted earnings of $2.17 per share, beating forecasts by $0.10 [5] - The company reaffirmed its guidance for Ingrezza sales between $2.5 billion and $2.55 billion for the year, with analysts predicting $2.53 billion [5] Product Dynamics - Ingrezza is experiencing pricing pressure, with a projected 6% to 7% year-over-year decline in net pricing for the third and fourth quarters [6] - Crenessity's launch has been strong, with about 80% of insurers reimbursing for the drug, contributing to its sales success [10] - However, there was a sequential drop in new patient starts for Crenessity, with only 540 patients starting treatment in Q3, down from 644 in Q2 [11] Market Reactions - Neurocrine's stock fell over 2% to $143.76, currently resting at its 50-day moving average, despite a strong Composite Rating of 94, indicating it ranks in the top 6% of stocks based on fundamental and technical measures [4] - Analysts have mixed views, with some expressing confidence in the company's growth trajectory while others highlight potential risks related to pricing and market competition [3][9][12]