Biopharmaceutical firm Axsome Therapeutics (AXSM -0.40%) reported mixed fourth-quarter and full-year 2024 earnings on Tuesday, Feb. 18. The company achieved substantial revenue growth, with sales hitting $118.8 million, surpassing analyst estimates of $118 million. However, its adjusted earnings per share (EPS) loss of $1.54 missed expectations of a $1 per share loss by a wide margin.
The quarter was marked by strong sales from its commercial products, Auvelity and Sunosi, and heightened strategic investment in research and development (R&D) reflected in increased spending.
| Metric | Q4 2024 | Analyst's Estimate | Q4 2023 | Change (YOY) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adjusted EPS | ($1.54) | ($1.00) | ($2.08) | N/A |
| Revenue | $118.8 million | $118 million | $71.5 million | 66% |
| Net loss | $74.9 million | N/A | $98.7 million | (24%) |
| R&D expenses | $55 million | N/A | $30.8 million | 79% |
Source: Axsome Therapeutics. Note: Analyst consensus estimates for the quarter provided by FactSet. YOY = Year over year.
Axsome Therapeutics, a biopharmaceutical company targeting central nervous system (CNS) disorders, develops novel therapies for depression, narcolepsy, and other CNS conditions. Its current commercial products, Auvelity and Sunosi, are critical to its revenue streams. Auvelity, approved for major depressive disorder (MDD), and Sunosi, for excessive daytime sleepiness, are essential to the company's success. Axsome's strategy includes maximizing market share while defending against generic competitors.
The company is actively investing in its R&D pipeline, aiming to deliver AXS-05, AXS-12, and other late-stage candidates to the market. Axsome's recent efforts in clinical trials reflect its commitment to long-term growth, with trial success crucial for expanding its therapeutic portfolio. The management noted that marketing and advancing these new candidates is a key element of its long-term growth strategy.
Axsome's 66% year-over-year revenue growth in Q4 2024 was largely driven by its lead products -- Auvelity netting $92.6 million and Sunosi contributing $26.2 million. Despite the impressive revenue climb, the adjusted EPS loss of $1.54 missing estimates as noted, but it showed a 26% improvement from a $2.08 per-share loss in Q4 2023.
R&D and selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses increased significantly, with R&D spending reaching $55 million, reflecting a 79% increase over the previous year. This rise aligns with Axsome's strategy to invest in its pipeline, gearing up for anticipated product launches. SG&A costs also rose to $113.3 million, largely due to commercialization efforts.
Product advancements in the quarter included the completion of a Phase 3 trial for AXS-05 in Alzheimer's agitation and positive results for AXS-12 in narcolepsy. AXS-14, aimed at fibromyalgia, is near the New Drug Application (NDA) submission stage, expected in Q1 2025. These developments underscore the company’s effort to grow its product base through strategic investments in clinical trials and research.
Looking ahead, Axsome Therapeutics is optimistic about ongoing revenue growth driven by potential new product approvals and market expansions. The management plans to enhance its sales force and prepare for upcoming product launches as part of its strategy to capture more CNS market share. The continuation of robust revenue growth remains a priority, along with maintaining focus on commercial and R&D investments.
Management’s guidance indicates possible revenue growth through 2025, with a continued focus on optimizing operations and exploring CNS market opportunities. Analysts and investors will be watching for updates on AXS-07’s launch and the impact of forthcoming clinical trial completions on the company’s financial trajectory.
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