WSJ News Exclusive | Merck Biotech explores purchase of Seasonale

Merck & Co. eyeing biotech buyout season According to people familiar with the matter, a move that will bolster the pharmaceutical giant’s cancer-drug portfolio.

Negotiations have been going on for some time, and a deal is not imminent, with people warning that one could be difficult to pull off given the increased risk of a regulatory challenge. It’s possible that companies could enter into a marketing agreement instead, some said.