The move bolsters Merck’s lineup as it braces for the 2028 loss of patent exclusivity for blockbuster cancer drug Keytruda.

Merck said on Wednesday it will acquire UK-based Verona Pharma for about $10 billion, gaining a promising respiratory treatment as it faces pressure to diversify beyond its blockbuster cancer drug Keytruda.

Merck & Co. is acquiring Verona Pharma PLC in a $10 billion deal that will expand the pharmaceutical giant’s portfolio of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treatments with Verona Pharma’s Ohtuvayre.