Zevra Acquires Acer for $91M

Zevra Therapeutics, Inc., a rare disease company, and Acer Therapeutics Inc., a pharmaceutical company focused on development and commercialization of therapies for rare and life-threatening diseases, entered into a definitive agreement under which Zevra will acquire Acer for $91 million.

The merger will expand Zevra’s rare disease portfolio, as well as increase and diversify its revenues with the addition of a U.S. commercial asset, OLPRUVA, indicated for the treatment of urea cycle disorders (UCDs). The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions.

“We believe that Acer’s portfolio of rare disease programs, including the recent U.S. commercial approval of OLPRUVA for UCDs, is a perfect strategic fit for Zevra and creates significant opportunity for us to positively impact patient lives while creating shareholder value,” said Joshua Schafer, chief commercialization officer, and executive vice president of business development of Zevra Therapeutics. “We are excited about Acer’s clinical programs and are confident in the potential of OLPRUVA to bring UCD patients a more convenient and cost-effective treatment option over current therapies. Acer would bring unique rare disease operations and capabilities that would serve as a foundation to support the commercialization of Zevra’s pipeline as it advances.”

Chris Schelling, Acer Therapeutics’ CEO and Founder, said, “Following years of product development and commitment to rare disease communities, culminating in the FDA approval of OLPRUVA, we are pleased to see our assets, pipeline and team positioned to unite under the Zevra umbrella. We look forward to working with the Zevra team to ensure a smooth transition as we work together on behalf of patients.”