Merck & Co., Inc. is a global biopharmaceutical company engaged in the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies and animal health products. Its portfolio spans multiple therapeutic areas with a particular emphasis on oncology, vaccines and infectious disease, as well as therapies for metabolic and chronic conditions. Among its well-known products are the cancer immunotherapy Keytruda (pembrolizumab) and the human papillomavirus vaccine Gardasil; the company also markets a range of medicines and vaccines for veterinary use through Merck Animal Health.
Founded in the late 19th century as the U.S. affiliate of the German Merck family business, Merck & Co. evolved into an independent American pharmaceutical company after World War I. Headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey, the company maintains a substantial global presence, selling products and conducting research and clinical development worldwide. Outside the United States and Canada it commonly operates under the MSD (Merck Sharp & Dohme) name. Customers include hospitals, health systems, public health agencies and commercial pharmacies, and the company participates in public-private partnerships and global vaccination programs.
Merck places significant emphasis on research and development, investing in clinical pipelines, biologics, and vaccine technologies while engaging in collaborations with academic institutions, biotech firms and other industry partners. Its operations encompass discovery research, clinical development, regulatory affairs, manufacturing and global distribution. Executive leadership is led by Chief Executive Officer Robert M. Davis. The company’s business model combines in-house R&D with strategic alliances to advance new therapies and expand access to established products across diverse international markets.