Jazz Pharmaceuticals to Buy Actio Biosciences in $820 Million Mixed Deal
The acquisition of ABS-1230 aims to expand Jazz's rare epilepsy portfolio and build upon the success of Epidiolex.
Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc (JAZZ) agreed to acquire Actio Biosciences, Inc. in a mixed transaction valued at $820 million upfront. The agreement also includes up to $500 million in contingent consideration.
The companies expect to close the acquisition by the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.
Jazz said the deal is intended to deepen its leadership in rare and severe epilepsies. “The acquisition of ABS-1230 represents a highly strategic expansion of our rare epilepsy portfolio, building upon the global success of Epidiolex and deepening our leadership in rare and severe epilepsies,” said Renee Gala, president and chief executive officer of Jazz Pharmaceuticals.
The transaction follows a broader trend of consolidation and asset acquisition within the rare central nervous system (CNS) and epilepsy sectors. Comparable activity includes Harmony Biosciences' focus on developmental epileptic encephalopathies through its acquisition of Epygenix and the development of EPX-100. Similarly, Angelini Pharma recently moved to establish itself as a global player in neurological rare diseases through its acquisition of Catalyst Pharmaceuticals.