AstraZeneca signs $39bn deal to acquire Alexion Pharmaceuticals

In a landmark move that’s poised to shake up the world of immunology and rare disease treatments, AstraZeneca has sealed a $39 billion deal to acquire Alexion Pharmaceuticals. This strategic acquisition aligns with AstraZeneca’s ambition to strengthen its position in immunology and expand its reach into rare disease therapies. Alexion, a U.S.-based biopharmaceutical company, has long been known for its pioneering work in developing therapies for ultra-rare and life-threatening disorders.

The deal, valued at $39 billion, will see Alexion’s shareholders receive $60 in cash and 2.1243 American Depositary Shares (ADSs) of AstraZeneca, marking the per-share value of Alexion at $175. This acquisition is not just about numbers—it’s about amplifying AstraZeneca’s immunology and precision medicine capabilities. With a strong portfolio of approved therapies, including Soliris (eculizumab) and Ultomiris (ravulizumab), Alexion brings crucial expertise in complement inhibition, a field critical for treating disorders like paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. The acquisition extends beyond current treatments, as Alexion also boasts a rich pipeline of mid-to-late-stage therapies.

Alexion’s impact on AstraZeneca’s immunology ambitions

AstraZeneca’s CEO, Pascal Soriot, expressed excitement over the acquisition, highlighting Alexion’s leadership in complement biology and its potential to enhance AstraZeneca’s immunology pipeline. According to Soriot, this deal will not only bolster AstraZeneca’s current portfolio but will also enable the company to deliver “life-changing medicines for more patients.” Alexion’s expertise in rare disease treatment fits perfectly with AstraZeneca’s long-term goal of developing innovative therapies for diseases with high unmet medical needs.

The acquisition includes Alexion’s 11-molecule pipeline spanning more than 20 clinical-development programs across a broad range of indications, extending well beyond rare diseases. These include therapies for conditions such as Wilson disease and rare IgG-mediated diseases, alongside early-stage treatments that promise further breakthroughs in immunology.

A new chapter for Alexion Pharmaceuticals

Ludwig Hantson, CEO of Alexion Pharmaceuticals, shared his pride in the company’s achievements and spoke of the exciting future ahead. He emphasized that the merger would bring Alexion’s talented workforce, strong manufacturing capabilities in biologics, and innovative drug pipeline into the fold of AstraZeneca, enabling the combined entity to drive further innovation. Hantson affirmed the continued commitment to serving patients reliant on Alexion’s medicines, adding that the merger would create new opportunities to accelerate the delivery of novel treatments.

A significant boost to AstraZeneca’s rare disease efforts

AstraZeneca’s acquisition of Alexion Pharmaceuticals is a bold step in the evolution of the pharmaceutical giant’s rare disease strategy. Alexion’s rare disease portfolio, coupled with AstraZeneca’s global infrastructure, is set to provide unmatched opportunities for scientific collaboration and the rapid advancement of clinical programs. The transaction is expected to close in Q3 2021, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.

The deal underscores the growing importance of rare disease treatments in the pharmaceutical industry, where companies are increasingly focusing on niche, high-need markets. With this acquisition, AstraZeneca is well-positioned to solidify its role as a leader in immunology and precision medicine, offering solutions to patients who have historically been underserved.