Novartis India acquires Pfizer Minipress IP rights for ₹1,250 crore

Novartis AG shares dropped over 3% after its experimental drug pelacarsen failed to reduce heart attacks, strokes, and other serious heart problems in a late-stage trial. The Lp(a)HORIZON trial involved over 8,000 patients with high lipoprotein(a) levels. Despite lowering blood fat levels, the drug did not reduce cardiovascular events, raising questions about similar treatments from Amgen and Eli Lilly. Novartis's chief medical officer acknowledged the disappointing results but noted the data ad

Novartis India will acquire Pfizer's Minipress and Minipres trademarks in India, along with related intellectual property, for ₹1,250 crore. The deal includes Minipress XL, a high blood pressure drug with ₹228.6 crore revenue in July 2026. Pfizer will discontinue Minipress XL sales in India, receiving a $13.9 million lump-sum payment. Novartis India shares rose 2.9%, while Pfizer's shares fell 0.8%.

Novartis acquired cancer therapy company Myricx for over $2 billion, benefiting Australian investors including Brandon Capital and superannuation funds. The deal highlights the potential of biotech investments amid a looming $300 billion patent cliff for big pharma.

Novartis and Ionis' RNA drug, pelacarsen, failed to reduce heart attack, stroke, and death risks in a Phase 3 trial, despite lowering Lp(a) levels. Novartis stated the results were disappointing but may inform future cardiovascular approaches. Analysts noted the failure raises questions about similar therapies and potential impacts on ongoing trials. The drug was expected to generate significant revenue if successful.

Novartis and Ionis Pharmaceuticals reported that their experimental heart drug, pelacarsen, failed to reduce the risk of major heart attacks and strokes in a late-stage trial. The drug, targeting genetically inherited cholesterol Lp(a), lowered Lp(a) levels but did not meet its primary endpoint. Novartis shares fell 5%, and Ionis shares dropped 12% in aftermarket trading. The companies plan to present full trial data at an upcoming medical congress.

Novartis' phase III Lp(a)HORIZON trial of pelacarsen failed to meet its primary endpoint, as the drug did not reduce cardiovascular events compared to placebo, despite lowering Lp(a) levels. The company acknowledged the results were not as hoped but may advance scientific understanding. NVS shares closed at $159.99, down 1.90%, and rose to $162.90 in afterhours trading.