The $7.6 billion merger of Elanco Animal Health and Bayer Animal Health has passed an antitrust review by the Federal Trade Commission and is expected to close in early August.
The federal agency issued the approval July 15 with the expectation that Elanco will divest three products: Osurnia to Dechra Pharmaceuticals, Capstar to PetIQ Inc. and StandGuard to Neogen Corp. Osurnia is similar to Bayer’s Claro, a low-dose prescription treatment for canine otitis externa, and Capstar competes with Bayer’s Advantus as a fast-acting oral treatment for fleas on dogs. Bayer is considered the market leader in pour-on insecticides for cattle, necessitating Elanco’s sale of StandGuard, according to the FTC.
“This approval marks the near-final step in fulfilling our vision of bringing together two dedicated animal health companies focused on delivering innovation and an expanded portfolio of solutions to farmers, veterinarians and pet owners around the globe,” said Jeff Simmons, president and CEO of Elanco.
Elanco is purchasing Bayer Animal Health from the German multinational company Bayer AG.
Greenfield, Indiana-based Elanco reported that the merger has been approved by regulators in Europe, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, New Zealand, South Africa, Turkey, Ukraine, and Vietnam.
The full decision of the Federal Trade Commission may be read at bit.ly/3fDascl.
Did you know a subscription to Today’s Veterinary Business is free to qualified veterinary professionals? All you have to do is sign up here (and renew each year). You also can sign up to receive the Today’s Veterinary Business weekly e-newsletter.