SELLAS Life Sciences Group to Present Complete Phase 2 Correlative Results for its Lead Cancer Immunotherapy Candidate, galinpepimut-S (GPS), in Treatment of Multiple Myeloma: Oral Presentation at the 2018 European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation Meeting

On January 24, 2018 SELLAS Life Sciences Group, Inc. (SELLAS; NASDAQ: SLS) reported that an abstract highlighting the detailed description of antigen-specific immune responses and correlation thereof with clinical effects over time has been accepted for oral presentation at the 2018 European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) 44th Annual Meeting taking place March 18-21 in Lisbon, Portugal (Press release, Sellas Life Sciences, JAN 24, 2018, View Source [SID1234523569]).

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"The abstract to be presented at the EBMT Conference highlights the depth of our clinical program exploring the potential of GPS as an innovative immunotherapeutic for multiple cancer types," said Angelos M. Stergiou, MD, ScD h.c., President and CEO of SELLAS. "There has been great interest in immuno-oncology approaches for the treatment of MM and GPS offers an exciting opportunity by directly immunizing the host against a key immune target in multiple myeloma, namely WT1, particularly in view of strong differentiating attributes of our hetereoclitic immunotherapeutic as well as the other indications we are carefully pursuing."

Multiple myeloma (MM) patients with high-risk cytogenetics at baseline who also remain positive for minimal residual disease post-frontline autologous stem cell transplantation continue to experience poor clinical outcomes, despite maintenance with immunomodulatory drugs, such as lenalidomide. This is a population segment that represents approximately 15-20% of first-line MM patients. In previous reports, such patients immunized with GPS in a Phase 2 study (n=18) experienced a median progression-free survival of 23.6 months and an 18 month overall survival of 88%.

The presentation at the EBMT Conference will entail detailed correlative analyses between clinical benefit, as reflected by the rate of achievement of complete response/very good partial response, per International Myeloma Working Group criteria, and antigen-specific immuno-responses of the complete dataset from this Phase 2 study.

Details for the presentation are as follows:

Title: Clinical Benefit after Galinpepimut-S (GPS), a WT1 Immunotherapeutic, Correlates With Antigen-Specific Immune Responses in High-Risk Multiple Myeloma: Complete Analysis of the Phase 2 GPS Maintenance Study.
Presenter: Guenther Koehne, MD, PhD, Miami Cancer Institute, Baptist Health South Florida
Session: Oral Session 4 – Multiple Myeloma; Room 5B
Abstract Number: A-947-0029-01047
Date/Time: March 19, 2018, 3:50 p.m WET/ 10:50 a.m. EST
Location: Centro de Congressos de Lisboa / Lisbon Congress Centre (LCC), Room 5B
The presentation will be made available on the Presentations section of Sellas’ website at www.sellaslifesciences.com/publications immediately following the presentation.

About galinpepimut-S (GPS)

GPS is a heteroclitic multivalent, multi-peptide cancer immunotherapeutic agent composed of four peptides, addressing over 20 epitopes, and derived from the WT1 protein, which has been ranked by the National Cancer Institute as a top priority among cancer antigens for immunotherapy. Importantly, because the WT1 antigen is over-expressed in many malignancies, and is not found in most normal tissues, GPS has the potential to be a broad immunotherapy, effective across a multitude of diverse cancer types and patient populations.

Pfizer Announces Positive Top-Line Results For Potential Biosimilar To Rituxan®/MabThera®

On January 24, 2018 Pfizer Inc. reported that REFLECTIONS B3281006, a comparative safety and efficacy study of PF-05280586 versus MabThera (rituximab-EU), met its primary endpoint. PF-05280586 is being developed by Pfizer as a potential biosimilar to Rituxan (rituximab-US)/MabThera1 (Press release, Pfizer, JAN 24, 2018, View Source [SID1234523567]).

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The trial demonstrated equivalence in overall response rate (ORR) for the first-line treatment of patients with CD20-positive, low tumor burden, follicular lymphoma.

"We are pleased to report on our fifth proposed biosimilar monoclonal antibody (mAb) with positive study results. These results reinforce the potential of our proposed rituximab biosimilar in providing a safe and effective treatment option for patients," said Amrit Ray, MD, global president, Pfizer Essential Health Research and Development. "As a global leader in novel biologics, and with one of the broadest global portfolios in oncology, we are delivering on our commitment to advancing high-quality medicines for the millions of patients with cancer around the world today and in the future."

Pfizer’s biosimilars pipeline consists of seven distinct biosimilar molecules in mid to late stage development, with three of these in oncology, as well as several others in early stage development.

About the REFLECTIONS B3281006 Study

REFLECTIONS B3281006 is a randomized, double-blind clinical trial evaluating the efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity of PF-05280586 versus MabThera (rituximab-EU)for the first-line treatment of patients with cd20-positive, low tumor burden, follicular lymphoma. The primary endpoint measure, ORR, is defined according to the revised response criteria for malignant lymphoma [Time Frame: Week 26]. Results of the study will be presented in full at a future medical meeting or summarized in publication.

More information about the PF-05280586 REFLECTIONS B3281006 study can be found at www.clinicaltrials.gov.

About PF-05280586

PF-05280586 is a monoclonal antibody (mAb) that is in development as a potential biosimilar to Rituxan/MabThera. Rituxan/MabThera is indicated for the treatment of patients with certain types of CD20-positive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma; CD20-positive chronic lymphocytic leukemia; rheumatoid arthritis; granulomatosis with Polyangiitis and Microscopic Polyangiitis; and other region-specific indications.

PF-05280586 is an investigational compound and has not received regulatory approval in any country. Biosimilarity has not yet been established by regulatory authorities.

Iovance Biotherapeutics Announces Preliminary Phase 2 Data for TIL Treatment in Head and Neck and Cervical Cancers

On January 24, 2018 Iovance Biotherapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq:IOVA), a biotechnology company developing novel cancer immunotherapies based on tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) technology, reported preliminary clinical results from two ongoing open-label Phase 2 studies in head and neck and cervical cancers (Press release, Iovance Biotherapeutics, JAN 24, 2018, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2328242 [SID1234523547]).

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The company reported preliminary data from C-145-03, a multicenter Phase 2 study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of autologous Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (LN-145) for the treatment of patients with recurrent and/or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Three of the eight patients treated with LN-145 had a reduction in tumor size of at least 30% and qualified as a Partial Response (PR) as per RECIST 1.1 criteria. The Objective Response Rate (ORR) in the study is 38% to date. These patients had a median of 4 prior treatments for their cancer and had all received prior anti-PD-1 therapy. Two of eight had also received prior anti-CTLA-4. The most common side effects were pyrexia, chills, and hypotension. Iovance will continue to enroll patients in this study to the full sample size of 47 per protocol.

The company also reported preliminary data from C-145-04, a multicenter Phase 2 study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of autologous Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (LN-145) for the treatment of patients with recurrent, metastatic or persistent cervical carcinoma. Two patients are currently evaluable. One treated with LN-145 had a confirmed PR and one patient had stable disease.

"These early data from the head and neck study show the potential safety and efficacy of TIL therapy in tumor types other than melanoma, and demonstrate the broad utility of TIL therapy in various solid tumors. Recently approved anti-PD-1 therapies have resulted in overall response rates of 13-16% in head and neck cancer patients with a median of 2 prior therapies or similar disposition. We are therefore excited by this early data and believe that LN-145 may offer patients who have failed prior therapies, including anti-PD-1 checkpoints, an important treatment alternative," said Dr. Maria Fardis, PhD, MBA, president and chief executive officer of Iovance Biotherapeutics. "We are also encouraged by the preliminary data reported today in cervical cancer. Previously published data from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) had shown a response in three of nine cervical cancer patients treated with TIL therapy. Patients with metastatic cervical cancer have limited effective treatment options, with no transformative new systemic therapies having been approved over the last several decades."

Apexian Pharmaceuticals Opens Phase 1 Clinical Study of APX3330 in Patients with Solid Tumors

On January 24, 2018 Apexian Pharmaceuticals, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, has reported the opening of a clinical trial for patients with advanced solid tumors (Press release, Apexian Pharmaceuticals, JAN 24, 2018, View Source [SID1234523543]). The study involves APX3330, an orally administered inhibitor of APE1/Ref-1, a dual-function protein that plays a critical role in promoting and maintaining a broad variety of cancers. Details of the study, including eligibility criteria, the location of participating clinical centers and referral contact information can be found at www.ClinicalTrials.gov, a website maintained by the National Institutes of Health.

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"The initiation of the APX3330 study is a significant step forward in Apexian’s mission to develop safe and effective treatments for cancer patients" said Steve Carchedi, President and CEO of Apexian Pharmaceuticals. "Despite recent advancements in cancer treatments, there continues to be a need for treatments that improve the survival of cancer patients. Apexian is committed to "moving mountains" to help these patients."

The APE1/Ref-1 protein regulates the activity of other cancer-associated proteins, including transcription factors HIF-1-alpha, AP-1, NF-kappa B, and STAT3, proteins that control the aggressiveness of many cancers. Data indicate that Apexian’s drug APX3330 inhibits the cancer-promoting activity of APE1/Ref-1 without causing the side effects normally associated with many types of chemotherapy. Additionally, in a variety of pre-clinical studies, APX3330 has been shown to not only have an anti-cancer effect, but to also prevent, and reverse the nerve damage caused by certain forms of chemotherapy.

The clinical study is the first to explore APX3330 use in patients with advanced cancer, and is the culmination of extensive research on APE1/Ref-1 and APX3330 conducted by Dr. Mark Kelley, Professor and Associate Director of Basic Science Research at Indiana University’s Simon Cancer Center as well as other scientists worldwide. Dr. Kelley’s work on APE1/Ref-1 and APX3330 has previously resulted in significant research grants provided through the National Cancer Institute in order to explore the potential benefit to cancer patients receiving APX3330.

According to Dr. Richard Messmann, Apexian’s Chief Medical Officer, "Apexian’s research, led by Dr. Kelley, has provided us with a clear path to understanding, and an ability to measure, the clinical benefit that may be obtained when cancer patients are treated with APX3330. It also lays the foundation for determining whether patients with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) may benefit when receiving APX3330. The clinicians involved in the study, including those at the Simon Cancer Center and at START SA (San Antonio, TX) and START Midwest (Grand Rapids, MI) have uniformly expressed excitement regarding their participation in the study."

Novartis delivered good operational performance and landmark
innovation in 2017, entering our next growth phase

On January 24, 2018 Novartis reported good operational performance and landmark innovation in 2017, entering our next growth phase(Press release, Novartis, JAN 24, 2018, View Source [SID1234523583]).

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 Full year sales grew 2% (cc, +1% USD) as strong performance of our growth drivers, including Cosentyx and Entresto, more than offset Gleevec/Glivec generic erosion:
o Cosentyx grew to USD 2.1 billion in 2017, USD 615 million in Q4
o Entresto grew to USD 507 million in 2017, USD 185 million in Q4
o Oncology excluding Gleevec/Glivec grew 10% (cc), with 13% (cc) growth in Q4
 Full year 2017 core1 operating income was broadly in line with prior year (0% cc,-1% USD) as sales growth and productivity fully offset generic erosion and growth investments:
o Core EPS of USD 4.86, grew 3% (cc, +2% USD)
 Operating income was up 7% (cc, +4% USD), growing ahead of core operating income, partly due to lower amortization
 Net income grew 12% (cc, +15% USD), growing ahead of operating income, mainly due to higher income from associated companies
 Free cash flow1 grew 10% to USD 10.4 billion
 Alcon returned to growth, sales up 4% (cc/USD) and core operating income up 5% (cc, +1% USD)
 Landmark year for innovation with 16 major approvals, 16 major submissions and 6 FDA Breakthrough Therapy designations; Q4 highlights:
o RTH2582 showed superiority vs. aflibercept in secondary endpoint measures of disease activity o Kymriah filed DLBCL in the US with Priority Review and in the EU with accelerated assessment o ACZ885 submitted to FDA and EMA for cardiovascular risk reduction
o Biosimilars for adalimumab (US) and pegfilgrastim (EU) filed
 Advanced Accelerator Applications acquisition completed
 Dividend of CHF 2.80 per share, an increase of 2%, proposed for 2017
 2018 Group Outlook: o Net sales are expected to grow low to mid single digit (cc)
o Core operating income is expected to grow mid to high single digit (cc)
 Elizabeth Barrett has been appointed CEO Novartis Oncology and Robert Kowalski, Head of Global Regulatory Affairs, will assume ad interim leadership of the Drug Development Organization, both effective February 1, 2018

Key figures1 Q4 2017 Q4 2016 % change FY 2017 FY 2016 % change USD m USD m USD cc USD m USD m USD cc Net sales 12 915 12 322 5 2 49 109 48 518 1 2 Operating income 2 070 1 455 42 41 8 629 8 268 4 7 Net income 1 976 936 111 58 7 703 6 698 15 12 EPS (USD) 0.85 0.40 113 59 3.28 2.82 16 14 Free cash flow 2 456 2 976-17 10 428 9 455 10 Core Operating income 3 223 3 013 7 5 12 850 12 987-1 0 Net income 2 818 2 658 6 4 11 391 11 314 1 2 EPS (USD) 1.21 1.12 8 6 4.86 4.75 2 3

2/12 Basel, January 24, 2018 — Commenting on the results, Joe Jimenez, CEO, said:

"Novartis had a good year in 2017. Cosentyx reached multi-blockbuster status, Entresto delivered over USD 500 million in sales and Alcon returned to growth. It was a landmark year for innovation resulting in a rich late stage pipeline. With several key launches on the horizon and our new operating model in place, Novartis is poised for sustainable growth."
Vas Narasimhan, designated CEO from February 1, commented:

"I want to thank Joe and the Board for their leadership and guidance as I transition to my new role. As CEO my priorities will be driving our next growth phase by strengthening operational execution, delivering more breakthrough innovation, pivoting to become a data centric, digitally enabled organization, building trust and reputation and transforming our culture. I feel privileged to lead Novartis at this exciting time."

GROUP REVIEW
Fourth quarter financials
Net sales were USD 12.9 billion (+5%, +2% cc) in the fourth quarter, as volume growth of 7 percentage points (cc), including growth from Cosentyx and Entresto, was partly offset by the negative impacts of generic competition (-3 percentage points) and pricing (-2 percentage points).

Operating income was USD 2.1 billion (+42%, +41% cc) mainly driven by growth drivers, productivity, lower impairments and a gain from achievement of a sales milestone related to the 2015 Vaccines divestment to GSK, which were partly offset by generic erosion. Core adjustments amounted to USD 1.2 billion (2016: USD 1.6 billion).

Net income was USD 2.0 billion (+111%, +58% cc), driven by the strong operating income growth and higher income from associated companies. The prior year included exceptional charges related to a revaluation loss in Venezuela of USD 0.3 billion.

EPS was USD 0.85 (+113%, +59% cc), driven by growth in net income and the benefit from the share buyback program.

Core operating income was USD 3.2 billion (+7%, +5% cc) as growth drivers and productivity more than offset generic erosion. Core operating income margin in constant currencies increased 0.7 percentage points; currency had a negative impact of 0.2 percentage points, resulting in a net increase of 0.5 percentage points to 25.0% of net sales.

Core net income was USD 2.8 billion (+6%, +4% cc) driven by growth in core operating income.

Core EPS was USD 1.21 (+8%, +6% cc), driven by growth in core net income and the benefit from the share buyback program.

Free cash flow amounted to USD 2.5 billion (-17% USD) compared to USD 3.0 billion in prior year. The decrease of USD 0.5 billion was mainly driven by lower cash flows from operating activities and higher net investments.

Innovative Medicines net sales were USD 8.8 billion (+6%, +4% cc) in the fourth quarter. Volume contributed 9 percentage points to sales growth. Generic competition had a negative impact of 4 percentage points largely due to Gleevec/Glivec genericization in Europe and the US. Pricing had a negative impact of 1 percentage point.

Operating income was USD 1.8 billion (+33%, +31% cc) driven by higher sales and lower impairments, partly offset by generic erosion and growth investments for Cosentyx, Entresto and Kisqali. Core adjustments were USD 0.9 billion (2016: USD 1.0 billion). Core operating income was USD 2.7 billion (+11%, +9% cc). Core operating income margin in constant currencies increased by 1.5 percentage points mainly driven by improved gross margin from productivity; currency had a negative impact of 0.1 percentage points, resulting in a net increase of 1.4 percentage points to 30.5% of net sales.

Sandoz net sales were USD 2.6 billion (0%,-4% cc) in the fourth quarter, as 8 percentage points of price erosion, mostly in the US, was partly offset by volume growth of 4 percentage points. US sales declined 17% due to increased industry-wide pricing pressure and continued customer consolidation. Excluding the US, net sales grew 4% (cc). Global Biopharmaceuticals grew 6% (cc).

3/12 Operating income was USD 305 million (-16%,-19% cc) mainly due to US price erosion and higher manufacturing restructuring charges, partly offset by continued gross margin improvement. Core operating income was USD 543 million (+4%, +1% cc). Core operating income margin increased by 1.1 percentage points (cc) mainly driven by favorable product and geographic mix and ongoing productivity improvements; currency had a negative impact of 0.2 percentage points, resulting in a net increase of 0.9 percentage points to 20.9% of net sales.

Alcon net sales were USD 1.6 billion (+8%, +6% cc) in the fourth quarter. Surgical growth of +9% (cc) was driven by cataract consumables and IOLs. Vision Care grew +2% (cc) including continued doubledigit growth of Dailies Total1, partly offset by declines in the weekly/monthly portfolio. Stock in trade movements accounted for approximately 1% (cc) of Alcon growth in the quarter. Alcon’s results reflect the fourth consecutive quarter of net sales growth as a result of improved operations, innovation, and customer relationships.

Operating loss was USD 78 million, compared to a loss of USD 120 million in the prior year, the improvement driven mainly by higher sales. Core operating income was USD 221 million (+36%, +36% cc), primarily driven by the higher sales. Core operating income margin in constant currencies increased by 3.0 percentage points mainly driven by higher sales; currency had a negative impact of 0.2 percentage points, resulting in a net increase of 2.8 percentage points to 14.1% of net sales.

Full year financials

Net sales were USD 49.1 billion (+1%, +2% cc) in the full year, as volume growth of 7 percentage points (cc), including growth from Cosentyx and Entresto, was partly offset by the negative impacts of generic competition (-3 percentage points) and pricing (-2 percentage points).

Operating income was USD 8.6 billion (+4%, +7% cc) as growth drivers, productivity, lower amortization and a gain from achievement of a sales milestone related to the 2015 Vaccines divestment to GSK, more than offset generic erosion. Core adjustments amounted to USD 4.2 billion (2016: USD 4.7 billion).

Net income was USD 7.7 billion (+15%, +12% cc) driven by higher operating income and income from associated companies. The prior year included exceptional charges related to a revaluation loss in Venezuela of USD 0.3 billion.

EPS was USD 3.28 (+16%, +14% cc) driven by net income growth and the benefit from the share buyback program.

Core operating income was USD 12.9 billion (-1%, 0% cc) broadly in line with prior year as sales growth and productivity fully offset generic erosion and growth investments. Core operating income margin in constant currencies decreased 0.3 percentage points, mainly due to generic erosion of Gleevec/Glivec, partly offset by growth drivers and productivity; currency had a negative impact of 0.3 percentage points, resulting in a net decrease of 0.6 percentage points to 26.2% of net sales.

Core net income was USD 11.4 billion (+1%, +2% cc), growing above core operating income due to higher core income from associated companies.

Core EPS was USD 4.86 (+2%, +3% cc) driven by growth in core net income and the benefit from the share buyback program.

Free cash flow amounted to USD 10.4 billion (+10% USD) compared to USD 9.5 billion in 2016. The increase was mainly driven by favorable working capital changes and lower legal settlement payments out of provisions.

Innovative Medicines delivered net sales of USD 33.0 billion (+1%, +2% cc) in the full year, including USD 2.1 billion of Cosentyx and USD 507 million of Entresto. Volume growth of 8 percentage points more than offset the negative impact of generic competition (-5 percentage points) and pricing (-1 percentage point).

Operating income was USD 7.8 billion (+5%, +7% cc) mainly driven by higher sales, lower amortization and productivity, partly offset by generic erosion and growth investments. Core adjustments totaled USD 2.5 billion (2016: USD 2.9 billion). Core operating income was USD 10.3 billion (0%, +2% cc).
4/12 Core operating income margin in constant currencies slightly decreased by 0.1 percentage points; currency had a negative impact of 0.4 percentage points, resulting in a net decrease of 0.5 percentage points to 31.3% of net sales.

Sandoz net sales were USD 10.1 billion (-1%,-2% cc) in the full year, as volume growth of 6 percentage points was more than offset by 8 percentage points of price erosion. Sales in the US declined 12% mainly due to increased industry-wide pricing pressure and continued customer consolidation. Excluding the US, net sales grew by 4% (cc). Global Biopharmaceuticals grew 12% (cc).

Operating income was USD 1.4 billion (-5%,-7% cc) mainly due to US price erosion, increased investments in ex-US M&S and higher manufacturing restructuring charges, partly offset by continued gross margin improvement. Core operating income was USD 2.1 billion (0%,-1% cc). Core operating income margin in constant currencies increased 0.1 percentage points; currency had a positive impact of 0.2 percentage points, resulting in a net increase of 0.3 percentage points to 20.7% of net sales.

Alcon net sales were USD 6.0 billion (+4%, +4% cc) for the full year. Surgical sales grew +5% (cc), driven by strong performance of the vitreoretinal portfolio and cataract consumables. Vision Care sales grew +3% (cc), driven by continued double-digit growth of Dailies Total1.

Operating loss was USD 190 million for the full year, compared to a loss of USD 132 million in the prior year, mainly due to growth plan investments and higher impairment charges related to business development activities, partly offset by higher sales. Core operating income was USD 857 million (+1%, +5% cc), as higher sales were partly offset by growth plan investments. Core operating income margin in constant currencies increased by 0.2 percentage points; currency had a negative impact of 0.6 percentage points, resulting in a net decrease of 0.4 percentage points to 14.2% of net sales.

Key growth drivers
Underpinning our financial results in the fourth quarter is a continued focus on key growth drivers, including Cosentyx, Entresto, Promacta/Revolade, Tafinlar + Mekinist, Jakavi, Kisqali, Tasigna, Kymriah and Gilenya as well as Biopharmaceuticals and Emerging Growth Markets.

Growth Drivers (Q4 performance)
 Cosentyx (USD 615 million, +53% cc) showed strong growth across all indications, with more than 125,000 patients treated since launch.

 Entresto (USD 185 million, +164% cc) performance driven by growing adoption by physicians in US and Europe, and continued market access improvements.

 Promacta/Revolade (USD 255 million, +43% cc) grew double-digit across all regions, driven by continued worldwide uptake for chronic immune thrombocytopenia.

 Tafinlar + Mekinist (USD 246 million, +33% cc) performance was driven by continued double-digit growth in the US due to increased demand and new launches in Europe.

 Jakavi (USD 228 million, +33% cc) showed continued double-digit growth across all regions driven by myelofibrosis and reimbursement of the second-line polycythemia vera indication in additional countries.

 Kisqali (USD 35 million) continued to progress in the fourth quarter with growth in the US and additional launches in the EU.

 Tasigna (USD 485 million, +6% cc) showed solid growth mainly driven by the US.

 Kymriah launch in the US progressed well in the fourth quarter. 33 treatment centers are now REMs certified, 25 of those are fully operational and we are focused on ensuring access for patients.

 Gilenya (USD 825 million,-1% cc) slightly declined mainly due to the US, partly offset by growth in Europe.

Biopharmaceuticals (USD 309 million, +6% cc) grew mainly driven by Zarxio in the US and launches of Rixathon (rituximab) and Erelzi (etanercept) in the EU, partly offset by competition for Glatopa 20 mg.

Emerging Growth Markets

Net sales in Emerging Growth Markets – which comprise all markets except the US, Canada, Western Europe, Japan, Australia and New Zealand – grew (+8% USD, +7% cc) mainly driven by China (+13% cc).

5/12 Strengthen R&D
Innovation Review

Benefitting from our continued focus on innovation, Novartis has one of the industry’s most competitive pipelines with more than 200 projects in clinical development.

Key developments from the fourth quarter of 2017 include:

New approvals and regulatory opinions (in Q4)

 Tasigna (nilotinib) was approved by the EC for the treatment of pediatric patients with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia in the chronic phase (Ph+ CML-CP) and pediatric patients with Ph+ CML-CP with resistance or intolerance to prior therapy including imatinib.

 Tasigna US product label was updated with the inclusion of Treatment-Free Remission data, following FDA approval.

 Tafinlar (dabrafenib) + Mekinist (trametinib) combination therapy received FDA Breakthrough Therapy designation and Priority Review for adjuvant stage III BRAF V600 mutation-positive melanoma patients.

 Promacta (eltrombopag) received FDA Breakthrough Therapy designation in January for first-line use in severe aplastic anemia.

 Kisqali (ribociclib) received FDA Breakthrough Therapy designation for initial endocrine-based treatment in premenopausal women with HR+/HER2-advanced breast cancer.

 Gilenya (fingolimod) received FDA Breakthrough Therapy designation for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis in the pediatric patient population, following the submission of Gilenya for a pediatric MS indication to both FDA and EMA. This was based on the phase III PARADIGMS study in children and adolescents, which showed an 82% reduction in the rate of relapses.

 Sandoz biosimilar rituximab (Roche’s Rituxan) was granted manufacturing and marketing approval in Japan by the Japanese regulator, the PDMA.

 Advanced Accelerator Applications acquisition completed in January.

Regulatory submissions and filings (in Q4)

 Kymriah (tisagenlecleucel, formerly CTL019) filed with FDA for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (r/r DLBCL) who are ineligible for or relapse after autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), and with EMA for adult patients with r/r DLBCL who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant and children and young adult patients aged 3 to 25 years with relapsed or refractory B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. FDA granted Priority Review and EMA granted accelerated assessment of the submission.

 ACZ885 (canakinumab) submitted supplemental Biologics License Application and Marketing Authorization Application for cardiovascular risk reduction to the FDA and EMA.

 Sandoz proposed biosimilar pegfilgrastim (Amgen’s Neulasta) was accepted for regulatory review by EMA.

 Sandoz proposed biosimilar adalimumab (AbbVie’s Humira) was accepted for regulatory review by FDA in January.

Results from ongoing trials and other highlights (in Q4)

 RTH258 (brolucizumab) met its primary endpoint of non-inferiority vs. aflibercept in mean change in best-corrected visual acuity. Additionally, superiority was shown in three secondary endpoints that are considered key markers of nAMD disease, central subfield retinal thickness, retinal fluid and disease activity. Additionally, a majority of patients were on a 12-week treatment schedule immediately following the loading phase in two Phase III trials, also assessed by secondary endpoints in the HAWK and HARRIER trials.

 Kymriah results from the primary analysis of the pivotal Phase II JULIET trial in adults with r/r DLBCL showed sustained complete responses at six months. The data showed an overall response rate (ORR) of 53.1%, with 39.5% of patients achieving a complete response (CR) and 13.6% of patient achieving a partial response (PR) among 81 infused patients with three or more months of follow-up or earlier discontinuation. At six months from infusion the ORR was 37% with a CR rate of 30%. The median duration of response was not reached.

 Cosentyx (secukinumab) continues to build on its best-in-class profile:
 CLARITY study demonstrated Cosentyx superiority to Stelara (ustekinumab) in delivering clear and almost clear skin at 12 weeks.
 MEASURE 1 data showed that almost 80 percent of ankylosing spondylitis patients on Cosentyx have no radiographic progression of the spine at 4 years (modified stoke ankylosing spondylitis spinal score <2).
 FUTURE 5 data demonstrated reduced signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis while inhibiting progression of joint structural damage in PsA patients compared to placebo at 24 weeks.
 GESTURE and TRANSFIGURE studies showed sustained improvements in nail and palmoplantar psoriasis.

 Kisqali Phase III MONALEESA-7 trial, in combination with an aromatase inhibitor or tamoxifen and goserelin as initial endocrine-based therapy, showed significantly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) compared to endocrine therapy and goserelin alone (median PFS 23.8 months compared to 13.0 months for tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor plus goserelin), in premenopausal or perimenopausal women with hormone-receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 negative (HR+/HER2-) advanced or metastatic breast cancer.

 ACZ885 pre-planned secondary analysis of an exploratory endpoint in the Phase III CANTOS study showed that people with a prior heart attack who achieved hsCRP levels below 2mg/L at three months after the first dose had a 25% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events versus placebo. These patients also had a significant reduction of 31% in the rate of cardiovascular death and all-cause death.

 BAF312 (siponimod) new analysis from Phase III EXPAND study demonstrated its effect on magnetic resonance imaging lesions and brain shrinkage in Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS).

 SEG101 (crizanlizumab) post hoc subgroup analysis from the Phase II SUSTAIN study showed that SEG101 approximately doubled the time to first on-treatment sickle cell pain crisis (also referred to as vaso-occlusive crises) at a monthly dose of 5.0 mg/kg. Results were consistent across patient subgroups despite differences in disease severity, genotype or background therapy.

 AMG 334 (erenumab) full data from the Phase III STRIVE study in episodic migraine was published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

 AMG 334 LIBERTY trial, the first migraine prevention trial of its kind conducted specifically in patients who have tried multiple therapies without success, met its primary endpoint of percentage of patients on AMG 334 achieving at least a 50% reduction of migraine days versus placebo. Additionally, all secondary endpoints were met.

 Gilenya analysis from the Phase III FREEDOMS study in Relapsing Remitting MS (RRMS) showed blood neurofilament levels were significantly lower in patients taking Gilenya compared to placebo at six months.
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 Ultibro Breezhaler new data from the FLASH study showed Ultibro (indacaterol/glycopyrronium) 110/50 mcg significantly improved lung function (trough FEV1) in moderate-to-severe symptomatic and non-frequently exacerbating COPD patients after direct switch from Seretide (salmeterol/fluticasone) 50/500 mcg.

 CNP520 BACE1 inhibitor collaboration with Amgen and the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute was expanded to initiate a new trial, the Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative Generation Study 2.

Alcon Strategic Review

In early 2017, we announced a strategic review of the Alcon Division in order to explore all options to maximize value for our shareholders.

We have made significant progress in our ongoing strategic review. Alcon returned to growth in 2017, with full year sales growing 4% (cc) and core operating income growing 5% (cc) as a result of improved operations, innovation, and customer relationships. Alcon grew sales (cc) in every quarter of 2017 and accelerated core operating income margin in the second half. As communicated in October, key criteria for a final decision and timing remain continued Alcon sales growth and margin improvement which need to be demonstrated for multiple quarters leading to potential action not likely before first half of 2019.

Additionally, we have transferred the ophthalmic OTC products, together with a small portfolio of surgical diagnostic products, to the Alcon Division effective January 1, 2018. Total 2017 sales for these businesses amounted to approximately USD 0.8 billion. Updated segment financials will be released during Q1.

Product quality strategy

Novartis continues to drive compliance, reliable product quality and sustainable efficiency as part of the quality strategy. A total of 217 Health authority inspections were completed in 2017 (84 in Q4 2017), 30 of which were conducted by the FDA (9 in Q4 2017). Of the 217 inspections, 99% were deemed acceptable. Of the two that were not; one manufacturing site inspection by the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade resulted in an unsatisfactory outcome (Puurs, Belgium) with corrective and preventative actions on track; the other outcome of an inspection by the Gulf Cooperation Council of the Unterach, Austria site performed in November is pending.

Capital structure and net debt

Retaining a good balance between investment in the business, a strong capital structure and attractive shareholder returns remains a priority.

In January 2017, Novartis announced an up to USD 5.0 billion share buyback to be executed on the second trading line. In 2017, Novartis repurchased 56.4 million shares (USD 4.5 billion) under this buyback and 9.8 million shares (USD 0.8 billion) to mitigate dilution related to equity-based participation plans of associates. In addition, 3.8 million shares (USD 0.3 billion) were repurchased from associates and 13.4 million treasury shares (USD 0.9 billion) were delivered as a result of options exercised and share deliveries related to participation plans of associates. Consequently, the total number of shares outstanding decreased by 56.6 million versus December 31, 2016. Novartis aims to offset the dilutive impact from equity based participation plans of associates. These treasury share transactions resulted in a net cash outflow of USD 5.2 billion.

As of December 31, 2017, the net debt increased by USD 3.0 billion to USD 19.0 billion versus December 31, 2016. The increase was mainly driven by the USD 6.5 billion annual dividend payment, net share repurchases of USD 5.2 billion and M&A related payments of USD 0.9 billion, partly offset by USD 10.4 billion free cash flow in 2017. The long-term credit rating for the company continues to be double-A (Moody’s Investors Service Aa3; S&P Global Ratings AA-; Fitch Ratings AA).

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2018 Outlook
Barring unforeseen events
Group net sales in 2018 are expected to grow low to mid single digit (cc).
From a divisional perspective, we expect net sales performance (cc) in 2018 to be as follows:
 Innovative Medicines: grow mid single digit
 Sandoz: broadly in line to a slight decline
 Alcon: grow low to mid single digit

Group core operating income in 2018 is expected to grow mid to high single digit (cc).

If mid-January exchange rates prevail for the remainder of 2018, the currency impact for the year would be positive 3 percentage point on net sales and positive 4 percentage point on core operating income. The estimated impact of exchange rates on our results is provided monthly on our website.