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：
Unique patient identifier: Experts argue the benefits, pitfalls
Next article： Psychedelics group wrestles with new pharma identity
Next article： Psychedelics group wrestles with new pharma identity
