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Esperion Therapeutics and Corstasis Therapeutics Announce Esperion's Definitive Agreement to Acquire Corstasis, Expanding Its Cardiovascular Franchise with Enbumyst(TM) (bumetanide nasal spray)

MWN-AI** Summary

Esperion Therapeutics (NASDAQ: ESPR) has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Corstasis Therapeutics, a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company, for $75 million in cash, with the potential for up to $180 million in milestone payments and royalties from sales of Corstasis's innovative product, Enbumyst™ (bumetanide nasal spray). This acquisition is set to bolster Esperion’s cardiovascular franchise, helping the company expand its product portfolio and reinforcing its strategic direction towards double-digit revenue growth.

Enbumyst, the first FDA-approved nasal spray diuretic for treating edema associated with congestive heart failure (CHF), hepatic, and renal diseases, offers a self-administered outpatient therapy that addresses a significant medical need. With around 6.7 million adults in the U.S. living with CHF, Enbumyst presents a revenue opportunity exceeding $4 billion by addressing the prevalent issue of fluid overload—a condition that complicates daily disease management and can lead to hospitalizations.

Esperion anticipates that integrating Enbumyst into its existing commercial infrastructure will enhance its capabilities in treating high-need patient populations, aligning with the company’s Vision 2040 initiative aimed at delivering transformative cardiovascular innovations. The acquisition is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, contingent on customary closing conditions.

Esperion's CEO, Sheldon Koenig, emphasized that Enbumyst’s novel delivery method and regulatory approval make it a strategic fit. Corstasis's CEO, Ben Esque, expressed confidence in the product's future under Esperion’s stewardship. The potential synergies from this acquisition could strengthen Esperion’s leadership in cardiovascular care while providing meaningful benefits to patients, healthcare providers, and shareholders alike.

MWN-AI** Analysis

Esperion Therapeutics' recent acquisition of Corstasis Therapeutics presents a strategic opportunity for investors looking to engage in the growing cardiovascular market. The deal, primarily centered around Enbumyst™—the first FDA-approved nasal spray loop diuretic aimed at treating edema associated with congestive heart failure (CHF)—is expected to significantly enhance Esperion's product portfolio and revenue growth.

With 6.7 million adults in the U.S. living with CHF, the market opportunity for Enbumyst is substantial, estimated at over $4 billion. The novel delivery mechanism of a nasal spray may address a critical gap in diuretic therapy, offering convenience and potentially improving patient outcomes. Additionally, the acquisition aligns with Esperion’s "Vision 2040," aimed at expanding its presence in cardiovascular care and other conditions like hepatic and renal diseases.

Financially, the acquisition involves an upfront payment of $75 million with up to $180 million in potential milestone payments, along with royalties on worldwide sales. This structured payment plan mitigates immediate financial risk while allowing for future revenue upside if commercial success is realized. With Esperion planning to integrate Enbumyst into its existing infrastructure, this could translate to enhanced operational efficiencies and faster market penetration.

Investors should consider the potential for double-digit revenue growth, providing a compelling case for positive long-term returns. However, it’s essential to remain cautious due to inherent risks in biopharmaceutical acquisitions and the need for successful commercialization.

In summary, Esperion's acquisition of Corstasis represents a strategic investment opportunity for those interested in biotechnology, specifically in the cardiovascular sector. Careful monitoring of the integration process and sales performance of Enbumyst will be crucial in evaluating future growth potential.

**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.

Source: Business Wire

– Enbumyst Is the First and Only FDA-Approved Nasal Spray Loop Diuretic for Edema Associated with Congestive Heart Failure, Expected to Leverage Esperion’s Established Cardiovascular Commercial Infrastructure, Synergistically Expand Product Portfolio and Accelerate Double-Digit Revenue Growth –

– Upfront Cash Payment of $75 Million, Royalties on Worldwide Enbumyst Sales and Up to $180 Million in Potential Milestone Payments Tied to Certain Commercial and Regulatory Achievements –

– Esperion to Host Conference Call on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 8:00 am ET –

Esperion (NASDAQ: ESPR) and Corstasis Therapeutics Inc., a privately-held, commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company advancing innovative outpatient therapies for the treatment of edema associated with cardiovascular, and hepatic and renal disease, today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement for Esperion to acquire Corstasis.

Under the terms of the agreement, Esperion will acquire Corstasis, which developed and is commercializing Enbumyst (bumetanide nasal spray), the first and only nasal spray diuretic approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in September 2025 as a treatment for edema associated with congestive heart failure (CHF), and hepatic and renal disease in adults.

Enbumyst offers a differentiated, self-administered outpatient diuretic therapy that may help bridge the gap between oral and IV diuretic therapies for treating patients living with edema associated with CHF, liver disease and kidney disease.

The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026.

“This acquisition represents a compelling and strategically aligned opportunity that accelerates Esperion’s momentum and advances our long-term Vision 2040. Enbumyst brings meaningful innovation to millions of patients who continue to struggle with the daily burden of diuretic therapy. Enbumyst’s novel intranasal delivery, established regulatory approval, and expanding clinical footprint make it a natural fit for our cardiovascular franchise,” stated Sheldon Koenig, President and Chief Executive Officer of Esperion. “We expect that by integrating Enbumyst into our proven commercial platform, we will drive sustained double-digit growth, strengthen our leadership in cardiovascular care, and create durable value for all of our stakeholders - from patients and providers to employees and shareholders.”

“Enbumyst was purpose-built in partnership with the cardiology community to address a clear unmet need. Today's acquisition validates our team's vision and approach,” said Ben Esque, Chief Executive Officer of Corstasis Therapeutics. “We are excited about the future of Enbumyst in Esperion’s hands and its ability to intervene in the patient setting to treat worsening heart failure at home.”

Strategic Rationale and Commercial Plans

There are an estimated 6.7 million American adults living with CHF and edema is one of the most common and defining clinical features of CHF, particularly as disease severity increases. Enbumyst addresses a large and growing population whose medical needs align directly with Esperion’s commercial and pipeline focus. The product allows Esperion to target a U.S. market with a potential opportunity exceeding $4 billion, and the ability to expand across hepatic and renal indications including nephrotic syndrome.

The acquisition strengthens Esperion’s commercial portfolio, enhances potential long-term revenue growth, and is aligned with the company’s recently introduced Vision 2040, which outlines a pathway for delivering differentiated, accessible cardiovascular innovations for high need patient populations. Enbumyst complements Esperion’s established cardiovascular commercial infrastructure and builds on the company’s expanding presence in metabolic, hepatic, and renal disease, including its recently announced initiative in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC).

In addition, Corstasis is advancing a sub-cutaneous pipeline, including a multidose pen injector, which has the potential to unlock additional market opportunities.

“Edema and congestion remain the most burdensome and persistent symptoms for patients living with heart failure, often driving hospitalizations, impairing quality of life, and complicating day?to?day disease management. As a clinician who cares for these patients, it is challenging when they call in with worsening symptoms, as current oral diuretic options can be limited by delayed onset or absorption challenges. The availability of an FDA?approved intranasal diuretic like Enbumyst represents an important therapeutic advance. Its novel intranasal delivery route offers the potential for more flexible, rapid, and patient?friendly fluid management that can be done at home - precisely the kind of innovation we need to better support patients across the spectrum of cardiovascular and renal disease, and hopefully avoid the need for hospitalization,” noted James Udelson, MD, Chief of Cardiology, Tufts Medical Center.

Transaction Terms

Under the terms of the agreement, Esperion, through a subsidiary, will acquire all outstanding stock of Corstasis in exchange for an upfront payment of $75 million in cash. Corstasis shareholders also will be eligible to receive a total of up to an additional $180 million upon the attainment of certain regulatory and commercial milestones, as well as low double-digit royalties on sales of Enbumyst and follow-on products.

Esperion will finance the acquisition through its existing credit facilities and royalty monetization of its Japanese royalties with funds managed by Athyrium Capital Management and HealthCare Royalty.

The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions. Jefferies LLC served as the exclusive financial advisor to Esperion and PJT Partners served as the exclusive financial advisor to Corstasis Therapeutics. Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP served as legal advisors to Esperion and Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP served as legal advisor to Corstasis.

Conference Call and Webcast Information

Esperion will host a conference call and webcast today at 8:00 a.m. ET to discuss the acquisition.

A live audio webcast can be accessed on the investor relations section of the Esperion website . The webcast replay will be available approximately two hours after completion of the call and will be archived on the Esperion's website for approximately 90 days.

About ENBUMYST™ (bumetanide nasal spray)

ENBUMYST (bumetanide nasal spray) is a loop diuretic indicated for the treatment of edema associated with congestive heart failure, and hepatic and renal disease, including nephrotic syndrome in adults.

INDICATION AND IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR ENBUMYST™ (BUMETANIDE NASAL SPRAY)

INDICATION

ENBUMYST is indicated for the treatment of edema associated with congestive heart failure, and hepatic and renal disease, including nephrotic syndrome in adults.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

ENBUMYST is contraindicated in patients with anuria, who are in hepatic coma and have a history of hypersensitivity to bumetanide.

ENBUMYST is a diuretic that may cause fluid, electrolyte, and metabolic abnormalities. Excessive fluid loss can lead to dehydration, decreased blood volume, and increased risk of blood clots. Abnormalities may include changes in blood electrolytes, nitrogen, glucose, and uric acid. The chance of getting these abnormalities is higher in people who are elderly, use higher doses or who do not get enough electrolytes by mouth.

If increasing azotemia and oliguria occur during treatment of severe progressive renal disease, discontinue bumetanide.

Although unlikely at the recommended doses, the potential for ototoxicity must be considered a risk of intravenous therapy, at high doses, repeated frequently in the face of renal excretory function impairment.

Avoid use in patients with significant nasal mucosal or structural abnormalities, such as acute episodes of rhinitis or congestion due to any cause.

Advise lactating women treated with ENBUMYST to monitor their infants for excessive urine output, dehydration, and lethargy.

Most common adverse reactions are hypovolemia, headache, muscle cramps, dizziness, hypotension, nausea and encephalopathy (in patients with pre-existing liver disease).

These are not all of the possible side effects of ENBUMYST. To report suspected adverse reactions, contact Corstasis Therapeutics at 1-877-300-5339 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .

Please see the full Prescribing Information for ENBUMYST .

About Corstasis Therapeutics

Corstasis Therapeutics Inc. is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on transforming the management of fluid overload in patients with heart failure, liver disease, and kidney disease, including nephrotic syndrome, in adults. Its lead product, ENBUMYST™, was approved by the FDA on September 12, 2025. Visit www.corstasis.com for more information.

About Esperion Therapeutics

Esperion Therapeutics, Inc. is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and delivering innovative cardiometabolic and rare/orphan disease therapies. The Company leverages deep domain expertise in ACLY biology to develop and commercialize transformative medicines for patients worldwide. Esperion currently markets two oral, once-daily, non-statin therapies for patients struggling to maintain their low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and are at risk of cardiovascular disease.

With a broad U.S. commercial infrastructure and global approvals across more than 40 countries, Esperion is well positioned to serve as a partner-of-choice for global innovators seeking U.S. market access through acquisition, in-license, co-promotion and revenue share opportunities. In tandem, the Company is advancing its leadership in ACLY biology to build a diversified pipeline of novel product candidates, including treatments for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and renal diseases. For more information, visit esperion.com and follow Esperion on LinkedIn and X .

About Athyrium Capital Management

Athyrium is a specialized asset management company formed in 2008 to focus on investment opportunities in the global healthcare sector. Athyrium advises funds with over $4.6 billion in committed capital. The Athyrium team has substantial investment experience across a wide range of asset classes including public equity, private equity, fixed income, royalties, and other structured securities. Athyrium invests across all healthcare verticals including biopharma, medical devices and products, healthcare focused services, and healthcare information technology. For more information, please visit www.athyrium.com .

About HealthCare Royalty

HealthCare Royalty (“HCRx”) is a leading royalty acquisition company founded in 2006 that is majority owned by KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR). Over two decades, the HCRx team has developed a strong track record of investing in commercial-stage and near-commercial-stage biopharmaceutical assets, committing $7+ billion in over 110 biopharmaceutical products. With offices in New York, Stamford, San Francisco, Boston, London and Miami, HCRx continues to advance biopharmaceutical innovation by providing innovative capital solutions to counterparties. For more information, visit https://www.hcrx.com . HEALTHCARE ROYALTY®, HEALTHCARE ROYALTY PARTNERS® and HCRx® are registered trademarks of HealthCare Royalty Management, LLC.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the federal securities laws, including statements regarding marketing strategy and commercialization and business development plans, current and planned operational expenses, expected profitability, future operations, commercial products, clinical development, plans for potential future product candidates, financial condition and outlook, including expected cash runway and profitability, expectations regarding the acquisition of Corstasis and the prospects associated with Enbumyst, including the potential size of the CHF market opportunity, plans to submit a Supplemental New Drug Application, and other statements containing the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “suggest,” “target,” “potential,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “continue,” and similar expressions. Any express or implied statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that Esperion may not be able to accurately predict or assess, and that could cause Esperion’s actual results to differ materially from those projected, including, without limitation, the failure to consummate the Corstasis transaction or to achieve anticipated sales of Enbumyst, the net sales, profitability, and growth of Esperion’s commercial products, clinical activities and results, supply chain, commercial development and launch plans, business development, the outcomes and anticipated benefits of legal proceedings and settlements, and the risks detailed in Esperion’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and Esperion disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than to the extent required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260303929470/en/

Esperion Contact Information:
Investors and Media:
Tiffany Aldrich
corporateteam@esperion.com
(616) 443-8438

Corstasis Contact Information:
Sasha Damouni Ellis
sasha@damounigroup.com

FAQ**

How does Esperion plan to leverage its existing infrastructure to ensure the successful commercial launch of Enbumyst following the acquisition of Corstasis Therapeutics, particularly given the involvement of KKR & Co. Inc. Class A KKR in financing?

Esperion plans to leverage its established operational capabilities and sales infrastructure to facilitate a seamless commercial launch of Enbumyst post-acquisition of Corstasis Therapeutics, supported by the strategic financing and expertise provided by KKR & Co. Inc. Class A KKR.

What specific regulatory and commercial milestones must Corstasis achieve for Esperion to access the up to $180 million in potential milestone payments, and how might KKR & Co. Inc. Class A KKR's partnerships influence this?

Corstasis must achieve specified regulatory approvals and commercial sales targets to unlock the milestone payments for Esperion, while KKR's partnerships could enhance funding and resources, thereby accelerating Corstasis's path to meeting these crucial milestones.

Considering the projected $4 billion market opportunity for Enbumyst, how does Esperion's strategy integrate the insights from KKR & Co. Inc. Class A KKR to capture market share in the congestive heart failure space?

Esperion's strategy leverages KKR's insights to enhance patient engagement and develop targeted partnerships, aiming to innovate treatment approaches for congestive heart failure while capitalizing on the $4 billion market opportunity presented by Enbumyst.

In what ways will the acquisition of Corstasis and its product Enbumyst, supported by KKR & Co. Inc. Class A KKR, address the current challenges faced by patients with edema associated with congestive heart failure?

The acquisition of Corstasis and its Enbumyst product, backed by KKR, aims to enhance treatment efficacy and accessibility for patients with edema associated with congestive heart failure by providing a targeted, innovative therapy that addresses existing gaps in management options.

**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about KKR & Co. Inc. Class A (NYSE: KKR).

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