Alexion Pharmaceuticals, an American pharmaceutical company, completed the acquisition of Portola Pharmaceuticals, an American clinical stage biotechnology company that researches, develops and commercializes drugs, for $1.6bn. “This acquisition provides the opportunity to grow our commercial portfolio, which builds on the significant progress we’ve made diversifying our pipeline over the last few years. We are excited to add a transformative, first-in-class medicine like Andexxa, which rapidly reverses life-threatening bleeds that result from Factor Xa inhibitors, to our growing critical care portfolio. This important medicine is also a clear strategic fit with our existing expertise in hematology and neurology, and we are confident we can apply our demonstrated global commercial excellence to enhance access and broaden the number of patients helped by Andexxa,” Ludwig Hantson, Alexion Chief Executive Officer.