Pfizer Sues Novo Nordisk over Metsera Deal Antitrust Allegations

Pfizer has filed a second lawsuit against Novo Nordisk, alleging anticompetitive behavior in the ongoing bidding war for biotech firm Metsera, according to Reuters. This follows Novo Nordisk's unsolicited $9 billion bid for Metsera, which superseded Pfizer's initial $7.3 billion agreement and was subsequently deemed superior by Metsera's board. Pfizer's antitrust lawsuit asserts that Novo Nordisk's offer is a strategic maneuver to impede the market entry of Metsera's competing obesity treatment. The complaint specifically challenges the proposed 30-month closing period, arguing it is designed to delay Metsera's clinical progress and safeguard Novo Nordisk's existing market share. Pfizer highlights its own agreement, which featured a nine-month timeline and had already received preliminary antitrust approval. Novo Nordisk and Metsera have refuted Pfizer's allegations. Novo Nordisk maintains that it intends to accelerate the commercialization of Metsera's assets. Metsera characterized Pfizer's claims as "nonsense," suggesting they are a tactic to reduce the acquisition price. A judge is scheduled to review the complaints.