Novartis Outlines R&D Strategy with Over 25 Potential Blockbusters in Pipeline and More Than 10 Expected Launches Within Three Years

Novartis recently held its annual management meeting at its research headquarters, providing updates on the company’s progress in its ongoing transformation and sustainable value creation strategy.

Novartis Pipeline

In the Pharmaceuticals division, management highlighted the continued strength of the psoriasis product Cosentyx and the heart failure product Entresto, while preparing for a wave of new launches. Key growth drivers remain robust, supported by an expanding evidence base that includes data from the landmark PIONEER-HF study, which supports the initiation of Entresto therapy in hospital settings. The team is poised to launch five blockbuster products across core therapeutic areas over the next two years: Mayzent, Zolgensma, Brolucizumab, Ofatumumab, and Fevipiprant. By driving faster and broader patient access, Novartis expects double-digit sales growth in the Chinese market.

13 Potential Blockbuster Products Planned for Launch from 2019 to 2021

As a global leader in oncology, Novartis has growth opportunities in targeted therapy, cell therapy, radioligand therapy, and immunotherapy. The oncology business boasts a rich portfolio, including seven marketed blockbuster products, three recently launched products with blockbuster potential, and a robust and unique pipeline spanning multiple platforms. By integrating the best internal and external innovations, Novartis will continue to lead in the field of oncology.

Novartis’ Pipeline of 25+ Potential Blockbuster Products

The Global Drug Development (GDD) team showcased its catalyst-rich pipeline, comprising more than 25 potential blockbuster candidates. Novartis is set to achieve multiple pipeline milestones in 2019, with key data from six critical studies—including those on Entresto (HFpEF), fevipiprant (asthma), and the PD-1 therapy spartalizumab—poised to accelerate the company’s growth trajectory. GDD is establishing advanced therapeutic platforms to complement small molecules and biologics.

Novartis highlights that its robust late-stage pipeline is fueled by a steady flow of emerging assets from the Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR). The company’s pipeline comprises approximately 90 new molecular entities, which have been prioritized and optimized for translational potential to secure competitive advantages. NIBR is deploying advanced technology platforms to target previously considered “undruggable” targets.

Novartis 2019 Goals

Sandoz management provided an update on its ongoing transformation and the evolving generics landscape. Although the U.S. market is facing pricing pressures, approximately 70% of Sandoz’s sales come from outside the United States, where sales are continuing to grow. Sandoz is also adjusting its portfolio, including plans to divest its U.S. oral medications and dermatology portfolio by 2019. Currently, Sandoz has eight products on the market and more than ten assets in its pipeline. (Compiled by Sina Medicine/newborn)

References:

[1]Novartis chief Vas Narasimhan wants you to know about the ’25-plus’ blockbusters he has in the pipeline

[2]Novartis shows off pipeline – including 25 potential blockbusters

[3]Novartis highlights company transformation, catalyst-rich pipeline, and strong progress on strategy at Meet Novartis Management investor event