Cidara (CDTX) Climbs 105% on $9.2-Billion Merger with Merck

Core Insights - Cidara Therapeutics Inc. has experienced a significant stock price increase of over 100% week-on-week due to its acquisition by Merck Co. for $9.2 billion [1][2] - The acquisition agreement stipulates that Merck will acquire Cidara's shares at a price of $221.50 each, with the transaction expected to close in the first quarter of 2026 [2][3] - Cidara has received a fast track designation from the FDA for its drug candidate CD388, which targets influenza prevention in high-risk individuals [3][4] Stock Performance - On a single trading day, Cidara's stock reached a peak of $218.85 before closing at $217.71, reflecting a daily increase of 105.41% [2] - The stock's surge is attributed to investor repositioning following the acquisition announcement [1] Drug Development - CD388 is currently undergoing a Phase 3 study aimed at evaluating its effectiveness among adults and adolescents at higher risk for influenza complications [4]