Bayer to pay US$14.2bn for Merck & Co's OTC

6 May 2014 - Deborah Wilkes

Bayer has agreed to acquire US-based Merck & Co's Consumer Care business for US$14.2 billion in cash. In addition to a portfolio of strong OTC brands – led by the allergy remedy Claritin (loratadine) – the deal includes the global trademark and prescription rights to Claritin and the nasal decongestant Afrin (oxymetazoline).