Merck announced earlier this week that it will be acquiring Inspire Pharmaceuticals, which manufactures ophthalmic treatments such as AZASITE (azithromycin ophthalmic solution) 1% for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis, and ELESTAT (epinastine HCl ophthalmic solution) 0.05% for the prevention of ocular itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis.

Inspire also receives royalties based on net sales of RESTASIS® (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05% and DIQUAS(TM) Ophthalmic Solution 3% (diquafosol tetrasodium) in Japan.

Merck described the acquisition as part of its long-term commitment to improving therapeutic options for the treatment of eye diseases.

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