Why Can't Pfizer's Potential Blockbusters Gain Traction?

Pfizer , the world's largest pharmaceutical company, has performed well in recent years despite worries about the patent cliff. Of course, losing market share for the world's best-selling drug of all time to generic competition can lead to such concerns. Management was well prepared and had two potential blockbuster drugs -- both projected to reach peak sales of more than $2 billion -- ready to launch in 2013. JAK inhibitor Xeljanz was approved for treating rheumatoid arthritis last November, and blood thinner Eliquis, developed with Bristol-Myers Squibb , was approved one month later for reducing risk of blood clots in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Investors could sit back and ride out a successful year, right?

Unfortunately, neither drug has started commercial life in the first six months of 2013 with a bang. Xeljanz recorded revenue of just $33 million while Eliquis notched only $34 million for Bristol (Pfizer has not disclosed Eliquis sales this year) during the period. Why are these once-heralded drugs faltering? Why aren't their advantages playing out as envisioned? Fool contributor Maxx Chatsko breaks it down for investors in the following video.

Despite a rough beginning for Pfizer's two latest drugs, investors need to remember that the best investment strategy is to pick great companies and stick with them for the long term. The Motley Fool's free report "3 Stocks That Will Help You Retire Rich" not only shares stocks that could help you build long-term wealth, but also winning strategies that every investor should know. Click here to grab your free copy today.

The article Why Can't Pfizer's Potential Blockbusters Gain Traction? originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Maxx Chatsko has no position in any stocks mentioned. Check out his personal portfolio, his CAPS page, or follow him on Twitter @BlacknGoldFool to keep up with his writing on energy, bioprocessing, and biotechnology.The Motley Fool recommends Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool owns shares of Johnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Copyright © 1995 - 2013 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.