Insmed CEO Will Lewis talks its rare disease drug pipeline

Summary

Insmed CEO Will Lewis joins Fast Money ahead of the JPMorgan healthcare conference to discuss the company's rare-disease pipeline. He highlights strong launches for ARIKAYCE and its bronchiectasis drug, near-term trial data, Japan expansion, and the INS 1148 acquisition. Management says the balance sheet can support commercialization and further business development.

• Insmed shares have soared over 150% in the past year as the rare-disease drugmaker reported preliminary revenue ahead of estimates.
• ARIKAYCE exceeded raised guidance; the ENCORE trial reads out in March or April and could expand the addressable market.
• The bronchiectasis drug had a strong Q4 launch with more than 9,000 patients and $144.6M revenue; Phase 2 HS data is expected in Q2.
• Japan is a key international opportunity, with ARIKAYCE still early and the bronchiectasis drug approval expected in the second half.
• Insmed acquired INS 1148 for moderate-to-severe asthma and interstitial lung disease, adding pipeline optionality.
• Management says the balance sheet can fund commercialization and additional business development.