FDA Fast-Tracks Two Merck (MRK) Drugs With Blockbuster Potential

Core Insights - Merck & Co., Inc. is recognized as one of the 14 Best Pharma Dividend Stocks to Buy in 2026 [1] - The FDA has fast-tracked two of Merck's drugs, enlicitide decanoate and sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT), which have multibillion-dollar potential [2][3] Drug Development and FDA Fast-Track - The FDA's fast-track designation allows for expedited reviews of enlicitide and sac-TMT, which could significantly shorten the review process from the usual 10-12 months to 1-2 months [4] - Merck is expected to submit its application for enlicitide in April and for sac-TMT in October or November of the following year [4] Clinical Data and Market Position - Positive data from a late-stage trial of enlicitide showed a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia, indicating its potential effectiveness [5] - Merck aims to strengthen its drug pipeline as its leading cancer drug, Keytruda, faces impending competition from lower-cost biosimilars, which could impact its nearly $30 billion annual sales [5]