GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has revised its long-term outlook following the highly successful launch of its respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, Arexvy. The vaccine, approved for use in adults aged 60 and older, generated $1.5 billion in sales within just six months of being on the market. GSK's upgraded forecast anticipates sales exceeding $47 billion by 2031, up from the previous estimate of $1.3 billion, with a compounded annual growth rate of more than 7% between 2021 and 2026. CEO Emma Walmsley highlighted the potential for an expanded approval of Arexvy, which could address an additional 15 million vulnerable patients, and expressed excitement about the vaccine's role in GSK's adult vaccination portfolio.
Arexvy, gained approval in 2023 and holds about 70% of the market share for RSV. GSK's success contrasts with Pfizer, which reported $890 million in sales for its RSV vaccine, Abrysvo, in 2023. Pfizer aims to boost its market share through year-round discussions and exploring the shot's applicability to people ages 18 to 59. Meanwhile, biotech firm Moderna is gearing up to launch its own RSV vaccine in 2025. The RSV vaccine landscape is evolving, addressing the significant health impact of the virus, which annually claims the lives of thousands of seniors and young children in the U.S.
