Particle.news
Download on the App Store
9 ARTICLES
·
2h ago

Merck to Buy Cidara for $9.2 Billion to Secure Long-Acting Flu Drug

The purchase adds a late-stage, FDA-designated flu preventive to bolster Merck’s post‑Keytruda growth.

Merck logo is seen in this illustration taken March 26, 2025. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
Image
Unlike vaccines, Cidara’s products do not rely on the immune system. Credit: Andy Dean Photography via Shutterstock.com.
Image

Overview

  • Merck will pay $221.50 per share in cash, a 109% premium to Cidara’s prior close, with the $9.2 billion value including potential milestone payments.
  • The acquisition centers on CD388, a once-per-season antiviral intended to prevent influenza A and B that is being tested in the Phase III ANCHOR study.
  • CD388 delivered roughly 76% protection in mid-stage trials and received FDA breakthrough therapy designation in October.
  • BARDA previously awarded $339 million to support U.S. manufacturing and initial supply chain setup for CD388.
  • Reports indicated multiple bidders pursued Cidara before it accepted Merck’s offer, and the companies expect the deal to close in the first quarter of next year.