Story perspectives

Merck Acquires Cidara for $9.2 Billion to Boost Pipeline

11/14/2025

Summary

Story summary

Merck & Co. will acquire Cidara Therapeutics for $9.2 billion, paying $221.50 per share in cash.
The acquisition aims to strengthen Merck's respiratory portfolio, particularly focusing on Cidara's antiviral candidate, CD388, which has demonstrated up to 76% efficacy in clinical trials.
CD388 has received Breakthrough Therapy Designation from the FDA and is expected to close in early 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
This acquisition aligns with Merck's strategy to enhance its pipeline before the patent expiration of its leading drug, Keytruda.

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Story summary

Merck & Co. will acquire Cidara Therapeutics for $9.2 billion, paying $221.50 per share in cash.
The acquisition aims to strengthen Merck's respiratory portfolio, particularly focusing on Cidara's antiviral candidate, CD388, which has demonstrated up to 76% efficacy in clinical trials.
CD388 has received Breakthrough Therapy Designation from the FDA and is expected to close in early 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
This acquisition aligns with Merck's strategy to enhance its pipeline before the patent expiration of its leading drug, Keytruda.