Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK)’s Weakest Blockbuster?

But Remicade might prove more exposed to Xeljanz. Pfizer’s drug was approved as a second-line treatment, meaning customers can go directly to Xeljanz if methotrexate doesn’t work. The patient routes could reroute so that those who fail methotrexate go to Xeljanz while those who fail both move on to Humira.

Remicade makes up a notable piece of Merck’s pharmaceutical segment. But once the company has more pieces in place to offset Singulair’s loss, Remicade’s weight will fade somewhat. Pfizer’s oral drug poses more of a threat to Remicade than do the direct competitors, but that could take years to materialize.

The article Merck’s Weakest Blockbuster? originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Brandy Betz.

Brandy Betz has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends and owns shares of Johnson & Johnson.

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