Merck & Co. has agreed to acquire Verona Pharma, a bio/pharmaceutical company focused on respiratory diseases, for $10 billion. 

Through this acquisition, Merck will add Ohtuvayre (ensifentrine), a selective dual inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 3 and 4 (PDE3 and PDE4), to its cardio-pulmonary pipeline and portfolio. The US Food and Drug Administration approved Ohtuvayre in June 2024 for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in adult patients. Ohtuvayre combines bronchodilator and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory effects. Ohtuvayre is also being evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. 

Under the agreement, Merck, through a subsidiary, will acquire Verona Pharma for $107 per American Depository Share, each of which represents eight Verona Pharma ordinary shares, for a total transaction value of approximately $10 billion. 

Source: Merck & Co.