Merck & Co. finalized its $10 billion acquisition of Verona Pharma, gaining the respiratory drug Ohtuvayre approved in 2024 for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Despite the original compound's composition patent expiring in 2020, Merck expressed confidence in patent protection extending to the mid-2030s. Ohtuvayre sales have grown quickly, reaching $71 million in Q1 2025, and analysts forecast eventual revenue up to $4 billion annually. The acquisition consolidates Ohtuvayre’s IP and supports Merck’s strategic expansion in respiratory care.