May 1, 2014
Merck Animal Health reports 3% drop in Q1 2014 sales
For the first quarter of 2014, Merck Animal Health sales totalled US$813 million, a 3% decrease compared with the first quarter of 2013, including a 3% negative impact due to foreign exchange.
The results reflect the company's decision last year to voluntarily suspend sales of ZILMAX (zilpaterol hydrochloride), a feed supplement for beef cattle, in the US and Canada.
Excluding sales of ZILMAX, Merck Animal Health sales increased 5% in the first quarter, driven by higher sales of poultry, swine and aqua products. In the first quarter, the European Commission granted marketing authorisation for BRAVECTO (fluralaner), a chewable tablet that kills fleas and ticks in dogs for up to 12 weeks; the company anticipates approval in the US later in 2014.
