- Merck reported a 2% decrease in total pharmaceutical sales for the third quarter of 2005 compared to 2004, driven by a 5% decrease in US sales and a 2% increase in foreign sales. Volume declined 4% while price increased 1% and foreign exchange increased sales 1%. - For the first nine months of 2005, total sales decreased 5% compared to the same period in 2004. US sales declined 8% due to an 11% decrease in volume while foreign sales declined 2%. - Other income and expenses showed interest income up due to higher investment returns, while interest expense and minority interests also increased.