GSK has seen its sales increase by 8% in the third quarter to £8.5bn, as it upgraded its guidance for the full year.

In the pharmaceutical giant’s speciality medicines division, sales jumped by 16% to £3.4bn, with oncology sales rising by 39% to £500m.

In the three months to 30 September, its general medicine sales increased by 4% in the third quarter to £2.5bn, while vaccines sales jumped by 2% to £2.7bn.

GSK’s operating profit rose by 11% to £2.9bn, which GSK said reflects its speciality medicines and vaccines growth, higher royalty income and "disciplined increased investment" in its research and development portfolio.

Chief executive officer (CEO) at GSK, Emma Walmsley, who is set to step down from the role at the end of the year, said: "GSK's momentum continues with another quarter of strong performance, supporting upgraded guidance for 2025, and positioning us well for 2026 and achieving our longer-term growth outlooks.

"This is my final quarter reporting as CEO, and so I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the transformation of GSK in the last nine years. Together, we have delivered a step-change in operating performance, new prospects for growth and a clear pathway for scale patient impact and sustained shareholder value."

In its outlook, GSK now expects its 2025 turnover growth to reach between 6% and 7%, up from previous a previous guidance of 3% and 5%.

It has also increased its operating profit growth guidance from between 6% and 8% to between 9% and 11%.

Shares in GSK increased by almost 6% following the announcement.

Investment director at AJ Bell, Russ Mould, said that the share price has taken a “shot in the arm” this month, and it has been topped off by a “strong” third-quarter performance.

He added: "After a string of positive news on drug developments the company has delivered a sizeable upgrade to full-year guidance following strong sales growth and evidence that efforts to streamline the business are paying off.

"Outgoing CEO Walmsley’s efforts in the job may not have been rewarded by the market during her tenure but this update at least suggests she is handing over a business which is in pretty rude health.

"A big challenge will be dealing with a looming patent cliff for its HIV business as a key drug sees its patent expire in 2028. The lack of meaningful footprint in the fast-growing obesity space has also held GSK back, so investors will hope a recent tie-up with Novo Nordisk in this area pays dividends."

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