US-based Johnson & Johnson (J&J, NYSE: JNJ) is set to acquire all outstanding shares of its compatriot firm Intra-Cellular Therapies Inc. (NASDAQ: ITCI) for USD 132 per share in cash, amounting to a total transaction value of USD 14.6 billion. This strategic acquisition aims to bolster J&J’s presence in the neuroscience space.
Acquisition Details and Intra-Cellular’s Profile
Intra-Cellular Therapies is a biopharma company focused on the development and commercialization of therapeutics for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Through this buyout, J&J will gain access to Intra-Cellular’s neuroscience pipeline, which includes notable drugs such as Caplyta (lumateperone) and ITI-1284.
Caplyta and ITI-1284: Key Assets
Caplyta is a once-daily oral therapy that has been approved for the treatment of adults with schizophrenia, as well as depressive episodes associated with bipolar I or II disorder (bipolar depression). The drug is currently awaiting regulatory decisions in the US for its use as an adjunctive treatment for adults with major depressive disorder (MDD). ITI-1284, on the other hand, is a Phase II stage compound being studied for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and Alzheimer’s disease-related psychosis and agitation. These assets will significantly enhance J&J’s portfolio in the CNS therapeutic area.
Strategic Implications for J&J
The acquisition of Intra-Cellular Therapies represents a strategic move by J&J to expand its neuroscience capabilities and bring forward innovative treatments for patients with CNS disorders. By integrating Intra-Cellular’s pipeline, J&J aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of new therapies, further solidifying its position as a leader in the healthcare industry.-Fineline Info & Tech
