Novo Nordisk has agreed to buy NJ-based Emisphere Technologies in order to gain control over a proprietary drug delivery technology that facilitates the enhanced oral absorption of molecules.
The two companies have collaborated since 2007 on Emisphere’s carrier technology Eligen SNAC, which Novo is currently utilizing in its oral formulation of a GLP-1 receptor agonist semaglutide, which is marketed and sold under the brand name Rybelsus.
Novo says it intends to apply and further develop the Eligen technology and use it on current and future pipeline assets with the aim of making more biologic medicines orally available for patients.
Under the terms of the $1.8 billion deal, Novo will buy all outstanding shares in Emisphere for $1.35 billion and will also acquire the Eligen royalty stream obligations owed to MHR Fund Management for $450 million.
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