NEW YORK (DPA)

US obesity treatment provider Metsera Inc has entered into an amended merger agreement with US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, the company announced on Friday. Under the deal, Pfizer will acquire Metsera for up to $86.25 per share in a deal worth around $10 billion.

The deal includes $65.60 per share in cash and a contingent value right (CVR) that could provide additional payments of up to $20.65 per share in cash, Metsera said.

Metsera's board of directors has unanimously concluded that the revised terms offer the most favourable outcome for shareholders, balancing both value and certainty of closing, the company said.

This decision follows recent developments, including a call from the US Federal Trade Commission raising concerns about potential antitrust risks associated with the competing proposal from Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk,  Metsera said in the statement.

In light of these regulatory uncertainties - particularly the possibility that the initial dividend under Novo Nordisk's structure may never be paid or could be legally challenged - the board determined that the Novo Nordisk offer carries unacceptable legal and regulatory risks, Metsera said.

Metsera reaffirmed its commitment to the merger with Pfizer, emphasising that the transaction is expected to deliver immediate and substantial value to shareholders. The companies anticipate closing the deal promptly following the stockholder meeting scheduled for Thursday.