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Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) Received FDA Approval For Keytruda Qlex, Cutting Infusion Time to 2 Minutes

By Laiba Immad | September 23, 2025, 7:02 PM

In this article, we will be taking a look at the 10 Best Pharma Stocks to Buy According to Billionaires. Merck & Co., Inc. is placed fourth among them.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK), a global biopharmaceutical company founded in 1891 and headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey, continues to strengthen its leadership in oncology and vaccines.

This month, the FDA approved Keytruda Qlex, a subcutaneous version of the drug that can be administered in just one to two minutes, compared to the 30-minute intravenous infusion. The injectable is expected to launch in the U.S. by late September 2025, improving convenience for patients and providers while reinforcing Keytruda’s competitive edge against future biosimilars, further solidifying Merck among the best pharmaceutical stocks.

In Europe, the EMA’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) issued two positive opinions for Keytruda: one supporting approval of the subcutaneous injection for the EU market, and another recommending its use in earlier-stage locally advanced head and neck cancer. A final EU decision is expected later this year, potentially expanding Keytruda’s reach across cancer care.

Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) Received FDA Approval For Keytruda Qlex, Cutting Infusion Time to 2 Minutes

Beyond oncology, Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is advancing its vaccine portfolio. The CHMP recently issued a positive opinion for ENFLONSIA (clesrovimab), designed to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants. If approved, it would become the first uniform-dose preventive option for RSV in Europe. MRK is also progressing with new pneumococcal vaccines, showing promising trial results.

While we acknowledge the potential of MRK as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy NOW 

Disclosure: None.

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