J&J to acquire Novira Therapeutics

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. — Johnson and Johnson is looking to grow its pharmaceutical arm’s specialty portfolio, announcing this week the acquisition of Novira Therapeutics. Novira focuses on development of chronic hepatitis B treatment, and the acquisition includes the company’s novel antivirals, among them its lead candidate NVR 3-778.

 

We are excited about the prospect this acquisition offers to accelerate the development of curative treatments for people affected by chronic hepatitis B,” said William N. Hait, M.D., Ph.D., Global Head, Research & Development, Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson. “NVR 3-778 offers the potential for efficient suppression of virus production and replication, which could help address the remaining unmet medical needs.”

 

The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2015. Financial terms have not been disclosed.