Drugmaker Pfizer posted a better-than-expected fourth-quarter profit on Thursday, helped by cost cuts it began last year as it aims to show investors steadier execution and growth after large swings related to its COVID-19 vaccine.

Unexpected demand for Pfizer Inc.’s Covid vaccine helped the company beat quarterly expectations. Then Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been a vocal opponent of the company’s top-selling shot, got one step closer to becoming US health secretary.

Pfizer's fourth quarter beat expectations on strong sales of its Covid vaccine and pill, bolstering its sales as it seeks to fend off criticism from an activist investor that has argued the company squandered its pandemic gains and needs a new path forward.