Merck Completes $10 Billion Acquisition of Verona Pharma

Merck, known as MSD outside the U.S. and Canada, has completed its $10 billion acquisition of Verona Pharma plc (Nasdaq: VRNA). With the completion, Verona Pharma becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of Merck, and its American Depositary Shares will be delisted from the Nasdaq Global Market.

Strengthening Merck’s Cardio-Pulmonary Portfolio

The acquisition brings Verona’s Ohtuvayre® (ensifentrine), a first-in-class selective dual PDE3 and PDE4 inhibitor for COPD maintenance treatment, into Merck’s expanding cardio-pulmonary pipeline. Approved by the U.S. FDA in June 2024, Ohtuvayre represents the first novel inhaled COPD therapy in over two decades and is also being studied for non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.

Strategic Value and Financial Impact

Merck Chairman and CEO Robert M. Davis said the acquisition aligns with the company’s focus on “compelling science and value.” The deal strengthens Merck’s long-term growth in respiratory care while slightly reducing non-GAAP EPS by about $0.16 in the first 12 months, mainly due to financing costs.