Johnson & Johnson Expands Neuroscience Portfolio with Acquisition of Intra-Cellular Therapies | iPharmaCenter
- ipharmaservices
- Jan 21
- 2 min read
Johnson & Johnson has announced a step in bolstering its leadership in neuroscience with the acquisition of Intra-Cellular Therapies, a biopharmaceutical company specializing in treatments for central nervous system disorders. This strategic move will see Johnson & Johnson acquiring all outstanding shares of Intra-Cellular Therapies at $132 per share, valuing the deal at approximately $14.6 billion.
The acquisition brings Caplyta (lumateperone) into Johnson & Johnson’s portfolio.
Caplyta is a once-daily oral therapy approved in the U.S. for treating schizophrenia in adults and depressive episodes linked to bipolar I and II disorders, both as monotherapy and in combination with lithium or valproate.
Its unique mechanism involves high serotonin receptor activity combined with lower dopamine receptor activity, helping to address challenging symptoms with fewer side effects.
In December 2024, Intra-Cellular Therapies submitted a supplemental new drug application (sNDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for Caplyta as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). Clinical trials have shown that Caplyta, when used alongside antidepressants, offers significant improvements in depressive symptoms, with no new safety issues identified. If approved, Caplyta could become a standard treatment for MDD, marking the first such approval in over 15 years for depressive symptoms in bipolar I and II disorders.
Expanding the Pipeline
The deal also includes ITI-1284, a promising Phase 2 compound under investigation for generalized anxiety disorder and Alzheimer’s-related psychosis and agitation. This addition complements Johnson & Johnson’s existing focus on innovative therapies for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions.
Caplyta is projected to generate over $5 billion in peak annual sales, reinforcing Johnson & Johnson’s sales growth for the coming decade.
With additional clinical trials underway for bipolar mania and schizophrenia relapse prevention, Caplyta continues to demonstrate its versatility and potential to improve outcomes for patients.
This acquisition represents a pivotal moment for Johnson & Johnson, solidifying its position as a leader in neuroscience while addressing the unmet needs of millions living with mental health and neurodegenerative disorders.
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