Zydus Lifesciences is reportedly in discussions to acquire US-based biopharma company Ardelyx, according to sources familiar with the matter. The potential deal could see the Indian pharmaceutical giant acquire either a controlling stake in Ardelyx or purchase key molecules from the company, which currently holds a market capitalisation of $1.6 billion.

Funding Strategy for Acquisition

To support the potential acquisition, Zydus Life is exploring raising funds through a qualified institutional placement (QIP). The company's board of directors had previously approved raising up to ₹5,000 crore through this route on November 6, 2025.

During its second quarter conference call, Zydus Life had outlined that the QIP's primary objective would be to deleverage its balance sheet by reducing existing debt. The company also indicated potential opportunities to expand its US specialty business, particularly focusing on gastroenterology as a key therapeutic area.

Ardelyx's Commercial Portfolio

Ardelyx operates two FDA-approved commercial products in the US market, both based on the active ingredient tenapanor:

• IBSRELA (tenapanor): A prescription drug for adults with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation
• XYPHOZAH (tenapanor): A prescription medication for adults with chronic kidney disease

Revenue Projections and Market Outlook

Ardelyx has provided optimistic revenue projections for its flagship product IBSRELA. On January 8, 2026, the company announced that IBSRELA is expected to generate revenue between $410 million and $430 million in 2026, with projections indicating potential growth to $1 billion by 2029.

Strategic Alignment

The potential acquisition aligns with Zydus Life's stated strategic interests in expanding its US specialty business. The company has identified gastroenterology as a primary focus area, while also exploring opportunities in the central nervous system (CNS) and cardiology therapeutic spaces.

Market Response and Company Statements

Zydus Life shares were trading 0.4% lower at ₹877.25, with the stock having declined 12% over the past 12 months. When contacted for comment, Zydus Life stated it could not comment on speculation, while a response from Ardelyx remains pending.

The potential deal represents a significant strategic move for Zydus Life as it seeks to strengthen its presence in the US pharmaceutical market through targeted acquisitions in high-growth therapeutic areas.

Source: https://www.cnbctv18.com/market/zydus-life-share-price-ardelyx-acquisition-push-fund-raising-qip-5000-crore-timeline-19824422.htm

Sentynl Therapeutics, the US-based subsidiary of Zydus Lifesciences, has achieved a significant regulatory milestone with USFDA approval for ZYCUBO (copper histidinate), the first and only approved treatment for Menkes disease in the United States. This breakthrough addresses a critical unmet medical need for patients suffering from this rare, fatal genetic disorder that affects copper absorption and transport in the body.

Clinical Impact and Treatment Efficacy

ZYCUBO represents a life-changing therapy for pediatric patients with Menkes disease. The subcutaneous injectable formulation works by restoring copper homeostasis in affected children, addressing the fundamental metabolic dysfunction that characterizes this devastating condition.

Clinical trial results demonstrated remarkable efficacy:

Understanding Menkes Disease

Menkes disease is an X-linked recessive disorder caused by mutations in the ATP7A gene. The condition has an estimated birth prevalence as high as 1 in 8,664 live male births, making it a rare but significant pediatric health concern. Without treatment, patients typically experience severe neurological symptoms and face a life expectancy of less than three years, with most dying by age three.

Key characteristics of the disease include:

• Impaired copper absorption and transport
• Severe neurological manifestations
• Fatal progression without intervention
• Primarily affects male children due to X-linked inheritance

Regulatory Recognition and Development Timeline

The USFDA granted ZYCUBO multiple special designations, recognizing its importance in addressing an unmet medical need:

Sentynl acquired the ZYCUBO asset from Cyprium Therapeutics in 2023 and successfully advanced it through pivotal clinical studies to achieve this regulatory approval.

Strategic Significance for Zydus Lifesciences

This approval marks Zydus Lifesciences' entry into the rare disease therapeutic space, representing a strategic expansion beyond its traditional generics portfolio. Dr. Sharvil Patel, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating that "for the first time, patients have access to an approved therapy, offering hope where no options existed."

The company, which employs 29,000 people globally, aims to expand its rare disease portfolio through Sentynl's US platform. This approval demonstrates Zydus Lifesciences' commitment to innovation-led therapies and its capability to develop treatments for underserved patient populations.

It's important to note that ZYCUBO is not indicated for Occipital Horn Syndrome, ensuring appropriate use within its approved indication for Menkes disease treatment.