Markets were tough last year for most stocks -- and investors. But some companies managed to beat the bear market. Two biotechs, in particular, shined for very good reasons. Axsome Therapeutics (NASDAQ: AXSM) soared more than 100%. And Vertex Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: VRTX) advanced 31%. Axsome launched its first two products. Vertex submitted a potential blockbuster in a new treatment area to regulators.

If you didn't buy these stocks a year ago, though, don't worry. It's not too late to get in on their stories if you invest for the long term -- and that's the best way to invest. You'll benefit as the companies grow earnings and their product portfolios. Let's check out why Axsome and Vertex are still stocks to buy.

Axsome started off its string of good news by buying sleep disorder drug Sunosi from Jazz Pharmaceuticals last year. Sunosi brought in $16.8 million in revenue in its first full quarter at Axsome. And prescriptions rose 15% year over year.

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Source Fool.com