Pfizer has entered into an agreement with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) to acquire its quadrivalent meningitis ACWY vaccines, Nimenrix and Mencevax, for a total consideration of approximately $130 million. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions as well as regulatory approvals in several markets, and is expected to occur in the second half of 2015.

Nimenrix (meningococcal serogroups A, C, W-135 and Y conjugate vaccine) is a single-dose meningococcal ACWY-TT (tetanus toxoid) conjugated vaccine designed to protect against Neisseria meningitidis, an uncommon but highly contagious disease that can lead to disability and death. Launched three years ago, it is indicated for all age groups above one year of age. Nimenrix is currently registered and approved for sale in 61 countries across the European Economic Area (EEA 30), Canada, Australia, and emerging markets, with registrations under review in another 18 countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East.

Mencevax (meningococcal polysaccharide serogroups A, C, Y and W-135 vaccine) is a single-dose meningococcal ACWY unconjugated polysaccharide vaccine used to control outbreaks of meningococcal infection and for travelers to countries where the disease is endemic or highly epidemic. Mencevax is indicated for use across all age groups from two years of age and is currently registered and approved in 79 countries across Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, and New Zealand.

With the approval in 2014 of Pfizer’s Trumenba (meningococcal Group B Vaccine) in the US for protection against serogroup B meningococcal disease in individuals 10 through 25 years of age, the acquisition of NeisVac-C for protection against serogroup C meningococcal disease from Baxter last year, and the addition of these two quadrivalent meningitis vaccines, Pfizer is creating a broad portfolio that is focused on helping prevent meningococcal disease as well as used for outbreak control.

The sale follows commitments given to the European Commission and other regulators in connection with the merger control clearances obtained for GSK's three-part transaction with Novartis AG, which completed on March 2, 2015. As part of the transaction, GSK acquired Novartis's vaccines business (excluding influenza vaccines), including the meningitis vaccines Menveo and Bexsero. In order to satisfy regulatory clearances as part of the transaction, GSK agreed to divest its legacy meningitis vaccines Nimenrix and Mencevax, which are sold outside the US and achieved combined global sales in 2014 of £34 million ($54 million). 

Source: Pfizer and GlaxoSmithKline