AstraZeneca to Acquire Alexion for $39 Billion

AstraZeneca announced on Dec. 12, 2020 that it will acquire Alexion Pharmaceuticals, a biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Switzerland, for $39 billion.

Through the acquisition, AstraZeneca will work with Alexion’s R&D team to build up Alexion's pipeline of 11 molecules across more than 20 clinical-development programs in several indications, AstraZeneca said in a company press release. Additionally, the companies will aim to combine two patient-centric models of care delivery with strengths in immunology, biologics, genomics, and oligonucleotides for future medications.

"Alexion has established itself as a leader in complement biology, bringing life-changing benefits to patients with rare diseases,” said Pascal Soriot, CEO, AstraZeneca, in the company press release. “This acquisition allows us to enhance our presence in immunology. We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues at Alexion so that we can together build on our combined expertise in immunology and precision medicines to drive innovation that delivers life-changing medicines for more patients."

“This transaction marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Alexion,” added Ludwig Hantson, PhD, CEO, Alexion, in the company press release. “We bring to AstraZeneca a strong portfolio, innovative rare disease pipeline, a talented global workforce, and strong manufacturing capabilities in biologics. We remain committed to continuing to serve the patients who rely on our medicines and firmly believe the combined organization will be well positioned to accelerate innovation and deliver enhanced value for our shareholders, patients, and the rare disease communities.”

Source: AstraZeneca