LONDON — Merck said Wednesday it is buying ophthalmology-focused startup EyeBio in a deal worth up to $3 billion, as the pharma company looks to diversify its pipeline.
Under the deal, Merck, through a subsidiary, will pay $1.3 billion in cash upfront, with another $1.7 billion potentially included if certain regulatory and commercial milestones are met. The Wall Street Journal first reported the news Tuesday night.
advertisement
EyeBio has been developing a drug called restoret for a number of retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema. It presented data in February from a Phase 1/2 trial of restoret in both conditions. Merck said it plans to move restoret into a pivotal trial for diabetic macular edema later this year.
STAT+ Exclusive Story
Already have an account? Log in
This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers
Unlock this article — plus daily coverage and analysis of the pharma industry — by subscribing to STAT+.
Already have an account? Log in
Already have an account? Log in
Monthly
$39
Totals $468 per year
$39/month Get StartedTotals $468 per year
Starter
$30
for 3 months, then $39/month
$30 for 3 months Get StartedThen $39/month
Annual
$399
Save 15%
$399/year Get StartedSave 15%
11+ Users
Custom
Savings start at 25%!
Request A Quote Request A QuoteSavings start at 25%!
2-10 Users
$300
Annually per user
$300/year Get Started$300 Annually per user
View All Plans
Get unlimited access to award-winning journalism and exclusive events.
Subscribe Log In
Previous article：
New brain studies show LSD's effects on the brain in full color
Next article： The high cost of giving birth even with insurance
Next article： The high cost of giving birth even with insurance
