18 Apr 2023
GSK plc acquires BELLUS Health Inc. for US$2-billion (CAD$2,724,152,000.00)
On April 18, 2023, British pharmaceutical giant GSK announced its acquisition of Bellus Health Inc., a Canadian cough treatment developer, for US$2 billion. This purchase came after the Bellini family's two-decade pursuit of success in the biotechnology field, notably developing camlipixant, a potential chronic cough treatment.
The deal involved GSK paying US$14.75 per share for Bellus, representing a 103% premium over Bellus' Nasdaq closing price on the preceding day. Chronic coughing affects millions worldwide, with no approved cure since 1958. Bellus' trials demonstrated a 53% reduction in cough levels, offering hope for patients suffering from this condition.
GSK expected regulatory approval for camlipixant in 2026, projecting substantial earnings starting in 2027, with a pricing range of US$300 to US$600 per month per patient in the US.
The acquisition followed a trend of billion-dollar takeovers in the Canadian life sciences sector. It marked the end of the Bellini family's 21-year journey with Bellus, overcoming numerous challenges in the biotechnology industry.
The legal advisors involved were Krishna Veeraraghavan and Benjamin Goodchild of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, and Peter Castiel, Robert Carelli, and Oliver Godbout of Stikeman Elliott LLP for GSK. On Bellus's side, Centerview Partners acted as the financial advisor, with legal counsel provided by various law firms, including Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP.
The transaction received regulatory and shareholder approvals, ultimately closing on June 28, 2023. It is expected to contribute to GSK's growth in the coming years.