Johnson & Johnson Reports Positive Phase 2b Results for Lupus Drug Nipocalimab, Plans Phase 3 Trial
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Jan 06 2026
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Should l Buy JNJ?
Source: Benzinga
- Positive Study Results: Johnson & Johnson's JASMINE study involving 228 systemic lupus erythematosus patients met its primary endpoint, demonstrating statistically significant improvement in patient response rates at Week 24 compared to placebo, marking the first positive results for an investigational FcRn blocker in this indication.
- Safety Profile Consistent: Nipocalimab exhibited a safety and tolerability profile consistent with previous Phase 2 studies, with no new safety signals identified, thereby establishing a solid foundation for further clinical development.
- Significant Market Potential: With systemic lupus erythematosus affecting an estimated 3 to 5 million people globally, including 450,000 in the U.S., the positive study results could provide a strong competitive advantage for Johnson & Johnson in this market.
- Clear Next Steps: Following the positive Phase 2 results, Johnson & Johnson plans to initiate a Phase 3 program for Nipocalimab, aiming to further validate its therapeutic potential in systemic lupus erythematosus, which could drive future revenue growth for the company.
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Analyst Views on JNJ
Wall Street analysts forecast JNJ stock price to fall
20 Analyst Rating
13 Buy
7 Hold
0 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 244.990
Low
190.00
Averages
218.50
High
240.00
Current: 244.990
Low
190.00
Averages
218.50
High
240.00
About JNJ
Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiaries are engaged in the research and development, manufacture, and sale of a range of products in the healthcare field. The Company’s segments include Innovative Medicine and MedTech. The Innovative Medicine segment is focused on various therapeutic areas, including immunology, infectious diseases, neuroscience, oncology, pulmonary hypertension, cardiovascular and metabolism. Its products include REMICADE (infliximab), SIMPONI (golimumab), SIMPONI ARIA (golimumab), STELARA (ustekinumab), TREMFYA (guselkumab), EDURANT (rilpivirine), and INVEGA SUSTENNA/XEPLION (paliperidone palmitate). The MedTech segment includes a portfolio of products used in cardiovascular, orthopedics, surgery, and vision categories. The Cardiovascular portfolio includes electrophysiology products to treat heart rhythm disorders and circulatory restoration products (Shockwave) for the treatment of calcified coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral artery disease (PAD).
About the author

Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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