Merck to Acquire Verona Pharma for $10B, Expanding Cardio-Pulmonary Portfolio with First-in-Class COPD Therapy Ohtuvayre®

Rahway, NJ and Raleigh, NC, July 9, 2025 (Business Wire) -- Merck has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Verona Pharma for approximately $10 billion, adding Ohtuvayre® (ensifentrine) to its cardio-pulmonary pipeline. Approved by the FDA in June 2024, Ohtuvayre is the first novel inhaled treatment for COPD maintenance in over 20 years, combining bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects. The acquisition strengthens Merck’s strategic growth in respiratory diseases and is expected to close in Q4 2025, leveraging Verona’s commercial momentum and clinical expertise to broaden patient access.

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