J&J: drug sales up, but device sales drop

Johnson and Johnson has posted its 2014 figures. While pharma sales saw healthy growth, the devices business was less encouraging.

Worldwide medical device sales hit $27.5 billion, representing a decrease of 3.4% versus the previous year.

Key products continuing to show growth in the range include the portfolio of orthopaedic products, Biosense Webster’s electrophysiology products, and biosurgicals and international sales of energy products in the Specialty Surgery business. 

During the quarter, the FDA approved the Animas Vibe insulin pump and Continuous Glucose Monitoring system for the management of insulin-requiring diabetes in adults ages 18 and older.

J&J's pharma sales look decidedly stronger, with sales of $32.3 billion representing an increase of 14.9% versus the prior year with operational growth of 16.5%.

New products here include Olysio/Sovriad, for combination treatment of chronic hepatitis C in adult patients; Xarelto, an oral anticoagulant; Zytiga, an oral, once-daily medication for use in combination with prednisone for the treatment of metastatic, castration-resistant prostate cancer; Invokana, for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes; and Imbruvica, an oral, once-daily therapy approved for use in treating certain B-cell malignancies, or blood cancers.

“2014 was a strong year for Johnson & Johnson, as we delivered solid financial results while continuing to make investments to accelerate growth for the long term. We have built significant momentum in our Pharmaceutical business, are realizing the benefits of innovation, scale and breadth in our Medical Devices business and are continuing our market leadership with iconic brands in our Consumer business,” said Alex Gorsky, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.  “I am proud of our exceptional Johnson & Johnson colleagues who make our success possible with their commitment to advancing health and well-being for patients and consumers around the world.”