Pfizer Wins $10 Billion Bidding War for Obesity Drug Developer Metsera

Pfizer has secured a $10 billion deal to acquire Metsera, a fast-emerging obesity drug developer, following an intense bidding war with Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk. Metsera accepted Pfizer’s enhanced offer late Friday, citing potential U.S. antitrust hurdles in Novo’s competing bid. The acquisition grants Pfizer a crucial foothold in the rapidly expanding obesity treatment market, though Metsera’s therapies are still several years away from regulatory approval.

Novo Nordisk Withdraws After Antitrust and Pricing Concerns

Novo Nordisk confirmed its withdrawal from the race after multiple offers, stating that the price and antitrust exposure made the deal untenable. Novo had twice raised its bid, first to around $10 billion, then to a similar amount with a higher cash payout and reduced performance bonusesh, but eventually opted to prioritize financial discipline and shareholder value.

Strategic Expansion for Pfizer in Obesity Therapeutics

The acquisition marks Pfizer’s major push into the obesity and metabolic disease market, positioning it to compete directly with leaders like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. The move aligns with Pfizer’s broader post-pandemic growth strategy focused on innovative therapeutic segments with long-term market potential.