10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2004

AMGEN INC Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2004

Filed May 3, 2004For Securities:AMGN

Summary

Amgen Inc. reported strong first-quarter 2004 results, with total revenues increasing by 33% year-over-year to $2.34 billion. This growth was primarily driven by significant increases in sales for key products such as Aranesp®, Neulasta®, and ENBREL®. Net income rose by an impressive 39.8% to $690.2 million, leading to a diluted EPS of $0.52, up from $0.37 in the prior year's first quarter. Operationally, the company saw robust growth across both its US and international segments, with international sales particularly surging by 87% (58% excluding currency impact). Amgen also highlighted the FDA approval of Sensipar™ in March 2004, its first small molecule drug, and announced its definitive agreement to acquire Tularik Inc. for approximately $1.5 billion, signaling a strategic move into drug discovery related to cell signaling. The company continues its substantial share repurchase program, demonstrating confidence in its long-term value.

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues increased 33% to $2.34 billion in Q1 2004.
  • 2Net income grew 39.8% to $690.2 million, with diluted EPS rising to $0.52 from $0.37.
  • 3Key product sales showed strong year-over-year growth: Aranesp® (+109% in US, +120% internationally), Neulasta® (+33% in US, +52.9 million internationally), and ENBREL® (+45%).
  • 4International product sales surged by 87% (58% excluding currency effects) to $390.1 million.
  • 5Amgen received FDA approval for its first small molecule drug, Sensipar™, in March 2004.
  • 6The company announced a definitive agreement to acquire Tularik Inc. for approximately $1.5 billion.
  • 7Amgen repurchased $649.7 million of its common stock during the quarter, continuing its aggressive share buyback program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue growth was primarily driven by strong demand for key products, including Aranesp®, Neulasta®, and ENBREL®. Combined EPOGEN® and worldwide Aranesp® sales increased 41%, Neulasta® and NEUPOGEN® combined sales increased 22% (driven by Neulasta®), and ENBREL® sales increased 45%.

The acquisition of Tularik Inc., a company focused on drug discovery in cell signaling and gene expression, represents a strategic expansion for Amgen into new areas of therapeutic research and development. The deal is valued at approximately $1.5 billion and is expected to close in the second half of 2004.

Amgen continued its aggressive stock repurchase program, buying back approximately 10.1 million shares for a total cost of $649.7 million during the first quarter. This program is intended to reduce the dilutive effect of employee stock plans and reflects management's confidence in the company's long-term value. As of March 31, 2004, $4.4 billion remained available for future repurchases.

Amgen noted that the full impact of the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 was still being determined. However, the company expressed concern that legislation reducing reimbursement for its products could adversely affect how healthcare providers prescribe or administer them, potentially impacting sales. Private insurers might also implement similar reductions.