Elanco to buy Aratana Therapeutics

Elanco Animal Health is to acquire the pet therapeutics company Aratana Therapeutics. The two companies have already collaborated on Entyce, the only FDA-approved veterinary therapeutic to stimulate appetite in dogs, Galliprant, a first-of-its-kind canine NSAID for osteoarthritis, and Nocita, a long-acting local anesthetic.
President and CEO of Aratana, Craig Tooman, said: “This proposed transaction acknowledges Aratana’s contribution of pet therapeutics to the animal health industry, specifically recognizing our strong track-record as a drug developer and our field team’s unmatched expertise delivering innovation to veterinary specialists. As a newly independent, premier animal health company, we believe that Elanco would help expand our portfolio with their substantial resources and presence within the companion animal segment.”
President and CEO of Elanco, Jeff Simmons, said: “Aratana has been one of the most innovative start-ups in animal health, bringing breakthrough solutions to the market. We look forward to putting greater energy behind these brands with our increased share of voice in the field while leveraging Aratana’s strong presence in the specialty market to capitalize on new opportunities for key existing Elanco companion animal therapy brands. We believe the deal would bring greater value to veterinarians and pet owners, as well as both Elanco and Aratana shareholders.”