Johnson & Johnson announced sales of $17.4 billion for the first quarter of 2015, a decrease of 4.1% as compared to the first quarter of 2014.

Operational results increased 3.1% and the negative impact of currency was 7.2%.

Domestic sales increased 5.9%. International sales decreased 12.4%, reflecting operational growth of 0.8% and a negative currency impact of 13.2%.

Excluding the net impact of acquisitions and divestitures, on an operational basis, worldwide sales increased 5.7%, domestic sales increased 9.1% and international sales increased 3.0%.

Net earnings and diluted earnings per share for the first quarter of 2015 were $4.3 billion and $1.53, respectively.

Alex Gorsky, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said: ”The company delivered strong underlying growth in the first quarter driven by new products and the strength of the core business.  Of note is the continued robust growth of the Pharmaceutical business and the solid performance of our Consumer brands. I am proud of our global teams who focus every day on delivering innovative solutions to address evolving health care needs.”