Teva to Acquire Emalex Biosciences to Strengthen Neuroscience Pipeline
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries has agreed to acquire Emalex Biosciences, adding a late-stage investigational therapy to its neuroscience pipeline as part of its growth strategy.
The acquisition includes Emalex’s lead candidate, ecopipam, a selective dopamine D1 receptor antagonist being developed for paediatric Tourette syndrome. The therapy has shown positive Phase 3 results, achieving the primary efficacy endpoint in children. A New Drug Application (NDA) submission is expected in the second half of 2026.'
Under the agreement, Teva will pay $700 million upfront. Emalex shareholders may also receive up to $200 million linked to future commercial milestones, along with royalties on global net sales, subject to regulatory approval.
Ecopipam is positioned as a first-in-class treatment, targeting D1 receptors, unlike currently approved therapies that mainly act on D2 receptors. The drug is considered registration-ready and aims to address the need for improved treatment options with fewer side effects.
Paragon Biosciences, which founded Emalex, supported the development of ecopipam through to late-stage readiness.
The transaction is expected to close by the third quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals and other customary conditions. Teva plans to fund the deal using existing cash resources and remains aligned with its financial targets for 2027.
Source: globenewswire.com
