Novartis $2 Billion Acquisition to Bolster Allergy Pipeline

Novartis agreed to acquire Excellergy Inc. for up to $2 billion, strengthening its allergy medication lineup. The acquired company brings Exl-111, a next-generation anti-IgE antibody, into phase 1 trials.

NVS has agreed to acquire Excellergy Inc. for up to $2 billion in upfront and milestone payments, adding a next-generation anti-IgE antibody to its allergy portfolio . The deal brings Exl-111, a potentially first-in-class trifunctional effector cell response inhibitor currently in Phase 1 trials, into the Novartis pipeline. The DISARM trial, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, dosed its first subjects in early February 2026.

Unlike conventional anti-IgE therapies, Exl-111 is designed to dissociate receptor-bound IgE with the potential to drive faster symptom relief and stronger disease control across food allergy, chronic urticaria, allergic asthma, and other IgE-mediated conditions. If confirmed clinically, this mechanism could support more convenient dosing and broader use, including in pediatric populations.

The acquisition marks Novartis's second multi-billion-dollar deal in a week, following the $3 billion purchase of Pikavation Therapeutics for an experimental breast cancer drug. These bolt-on acquisitions are part of a broader strategy to offset looming patent expirations. The transaction is expected to close in H2 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.