** Shares of AFT Pharmaceuticals AFT.NZ rise as much as 7.7% to NZ$3.50, their highest since February 19, 2024

** Pharmaceuticals company postsHY net profit after tax NZ$2.7 million ($1.51 million) swinging from a loss last year

** HY revenue grew by 33% to NZ$114.9 million, supported by strong performance at its key OTC and pharmacy brands

** Expects second half sales and earnings to be greater than the first half of FY26

** Stock up 15% this year, including the day's move

($1 = 1.7838 New Zealand dollars)

(Reporting by John Biju in Bengaluru)

((John.Biju@thomsonreuters.com;))