Novartis buys Tourmaline Bio in $1.4 billion deal, adding heart drug pacibekitug

Novartis announced Tuesday that it will acquire U.S.-based Tourmaline Bio in a deal valued at roughly $1.4 billion, as the Swiss pharmaceutical giant seeks to expand its cardiovascular drug portfolio.

Under the agreement, Novartis will purchase Tourmaline Bio shares at $48 each, valuing the clinical-stage biopharma company at approximately $1.4 billion on a fully diluted basis. Tourmaline’s board of directors has unanimously approved the acquisition.

Boosting Cardiovascular Research

The acquisition centers on Tourmaline’s lead asset, pacibekitug, a targeted therapy currently in advanced phase 2 clinical trials. The therapy is being developed for the treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), which remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide.

Novartis said pacibekitug has the potential to more effectively combat residual inflammatory risk than existing therapies, representing a significant opportunity in a field with high unmet need.

Strategic Fit for Novartis

The company noted that pacibekitug will complement its existing cardiovascular portfolio, which already includes established treatments for cholesterol and heart disease. By integrating Tourmaline’s pipeline, Novartis aims to bolster its long-term leadership in cardiovascular medicine.

Timeline and Closing

The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending customary regulatory approvals and closing conditions.