MSD has completed its acquisition of Cidara Therapeutics for $221.50 per share, enhancing its respiratory portfolio with the promising antiviral CD388.

Target Information

MSD (Merck & Co., Inc.), based in Rahway, New Jersey, has successfully completed its acquisition of Cidara Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: CDTX). The transaction involved a cash tender offer for all outstanding shares of Cidara’s common stock, priced at $221.50 per share. As a result, MSD acquired approximately 85.96% of Cidara's shares, totaling 27,149,333 validly tendered shares. Following the tender offer, a merger will ensue, resulting in Cidara becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of MSD.

Cidara Therapeutics is engaged in developing innovative therapies for infectious diseases and inflammatory conditions. Its lead asset, CD388, is a promising long-acting antiviral designed to provide protection against influenza in high-risk individuals. The acquisition of Cidara and its drug candidate aligns with MSD’s strategy of enhancing its respiratory portfolio and advancing scientific innovation in public health.

Industry Overview

The global healthcare landscape is continuously evolving, particularly concerning infectious diseases like influenza. Annually, approximately one billion individuals are affected by seasonal influenza, leading to severe