How a Big Pharma Company Stalled a Potentially Lifesaving Vaccine in Pursuit of Bigger Profits
ProPublicaSEP 28 2023
Eli Lilly to Buy Morphic for $3.2B
Image copyright: Scott Olson/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This deal is a win-win for Morphic and the pharmaceutical industry as a whole. By acquiring Morphic, Lilly is showing it values its products and its focus on ingretin-based treatments for gastroenterological diseases. In addition, other companies developing ingretin-based treatments for various diseases are experiencing a boost in value.
Narrative B
This deal comes with risks for Lilly. Morphic has endured some disappointments over the past few years — including data that was less promising than expected from the testing of its lead drug, MORF-057. Other major pharmaceutical companies have severed ties with Morphic over various concerns. It remains to be seen if Lilly's takeover will produce positive results.