Alcon acquires Aerie Pharma for £658m

Alcon acquired the ophthalmic supplier Aerie Pharmaceuticals for £658m ($770m), adding to its expansion into the ophthalmic eye drop space and to broaden its research and development (R&D) capabilities.

Products added to Alcon’s portfolio included Rocklatan and Rhopressa, which reduces intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, as well as a potential new treatment for dry eye disease.

David Endicott, CEO of Alcon, said: ‘Aerie is a natural fit with on-market and pipeline products, and R&D capabilities that offer the infrastructure needed to expand our ophthalmic pharmaceutical presence. As we continue to broaden our portfolio across glaucoma, retina and ocular surface disease, we are excited to help even more patients see brilliantly.’