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Swiss drugs giant Novartis increased its sales growth target by a single percentage point to 5% a year until the end of 2027, driven by demand for six drugs, says Ludwig Burger for Reuters. Kisqali, a breast cancer drug, in particular, has been shown to help reduce the risk of recurrence by 25% in those with early-stage disease – a “major win” for CEO Vas Narasimhan (pictured). Novartis envisages $4bn in peak annual sales for the treatment. Demand for Pluvicto, a precision radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer, and Kesimpta, a self-administered shot for multiple sclerosis, is also robust. Narasimhan has genuine cause for celebration, says Lex in the Financial Times. After spinning off generics business Sandoz in October, Novartis is a “cleaner proposition” now. But he cannot afford to rest on his laurels. Certain drugs are facing patent expirations and it isn’t yet clear what will replace an estimated $10bn in lost sales between 2027 and 2032. The company has pencilled in sales growth
