AbbVie Inc. (ABBV) vs Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK)

AbbVie Inc. is a pharmaceutical company with significant exposure to immunology through Humira, Skyrizi, and Rinvoq, and to oncology through Imbruvica and Venclexta. The company was spun off from Abbott in early 2013. Its 2020 acquisition of Allergan expanded its portfolio with additional products in aesthetics, including Botox. In 2024, AbbVie further strengthened its business through the acquisitions of Cerevel in neuroscience and ImmunoGen in oncology.

Merck & Co., Inc. develops pharmaceutical products across multiple therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disorders, oncology, and infectious diseases. In cancer treatment, its immuno-oncology portfolio, led by Keytruda, represents a significant driver of total revenue. The company also maintains a strong vaccines business focused on preventing pediatric illnesses, alongside Gardasil for human papillomavirus. In addition, Merck markets animal health products. Geographically, 47% of the company’s sales come from its U.S. human health segment, which includes pharmaceuticals and vaccines.