Novartis Acquires Tourmaline Bio to Enhance Cardiovascular Pipeline

On September 9, 2025, Novartis announced its agreement to acquire Tourmaline Bio, Inc. for approximately $1.4 billion, translating to $48 per share, which represents a 59% premium over Tourmaline's closing stock price prior to the announcement. This acquisition is primarily aimed at integrating Tourmaline's lead investigational therapy, pacibekitug, into Novartis' cardiovascular portfolio, specifically targeting atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

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Pacibekitug is an anti-IL-6 monoclonal antibody designed to reduce systemic inflammation, a significant contributor to cardiovascular disease. The drug is currently in advanced Phase 2 trials, with promising results indicating an 85% reduction in median high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels at a monthly dose of 15 mg, and an 86% reduction at a quarterly dose of 50 mg. These results suggest that pacibekitug could effectively address the unmet need for anti-inflammatory therapies in cardiovascular care.

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The acquisition aligns with Novartis' strategy to strengthen its cardiovascular pipeline, which has been a focus of recent investments. Shreeram Aradhye, President of Development and Chief Medical Officer at Novartis, emphasized the potential of pacibekitug to fill a critical gap in cardiovascular treatment options, stating, “With no widely adopted anti-inflammatory therapies currently available for cardiovascular risk reduction, pacibekitug represents a potential breakthrough in addressing residual inflammatory risk in ASCVD.”

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The deal, which has received unanimous approval from both companies' boards, is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and the tender of a majority of Tourmaline's outstanding shares. The acquisition not only enhances Novartis' portfolio but also positions it competitively against other therapies in the market, such as Novo Nordisk's ziltivekimab, which requires more frequent dosing.

Novartis to Acquire Cardiovascular Drug Via Tourmaline Bio in $1.4 Billion Deal

While analysts have generally viewed the acquisition favorably, some skepticism remains regarding the long-term efficacy and market acceptance of pacibekitug. Concerns about the competitive landscape and the challenges of bringing a new therapy to market persist. However, the potential for improved patient compliance due to pacibekitug's quarterly administration schedule may mitigate some of these concerns.

Novartis Acquiring Tourmaline Bio for Cardiovascular Disease Treatment Pacibekitug

Following the acquisition, Novartis plans to integrate Tourmaline Bio as an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary. The company will continue to operate separately until the deal is finalized. This acquisition is part of a broader strategy by Novartis to enhance its capabilities in cardiovascular therapeutics, following other significant investments in the sector earlier in 2025.

Novartis to Acquire Cardiovascular Drug Via Tourmaline Bio in $1.4 Billion Deal

• “With no widely adopted anti-inflammatory therapies currently available for cardiovascular risk reduction, pacibekitug represents a potentially promising targeted therapy to target breakthroughs in addressing residual inflammatory risk in ASCVD,” — Shreeram Aradhye, President, Development and Chief Medical Officer, Novartis

Novartis acquires Tourmaline for $1.4bn

• “This advanced Phase II asset offers an opportunity to advance treatment options for patients at high cardiovascular risk while diversifying Novartis’ portfolio in cardiovascular care.” — Novartis spokesperson

Novartis acquires Tourmaline for $1.4bn

This acquisition marks a significant step for Novartis as it seeks to redefine treatment paradigms in cardiovascular disease management.

Novartis to Acquire Cardiovascular Drug Via Tourmaline Bio in $1.4 Billion Deal