J&J skin drug could face slow uptake, analysts say

Goldman Sachs analyst Lawrence Keusch said that despite the potential restrictions on ustekinumab, he still anticipates a fourth-quarter launch and maintains his peak sales estimate of $750 million. He also rates J&J a "Buy."

Friedman Billings Ramsey analyst Jim Reddoch said ustekinumab approval could cut into Enbrel sales, noting ustekinumab's dosing and efficacy. He has a "Market Perform" rating on shares.

Meanwhile, Lehman Brothers analyst Jim Birchenough maintained his "Overweight" rating on Amgen shares said that the registry and safety concerns could limit the drug to patients for whom existing psoriasis drugs have failed.

A Centocor spokesman said the company will work with the FDA to address concerns about patient compliance with the drug and the need for patients to see their doctor for administration.

Johnson & Johnson shares fell 80 cents to $64.79, while Amgen shares dropped 13 cents to $44.26 in afternoon trading. Wyeth shares gained 39 cents to $45.55.