
Lilly backs psychedelic depression therapy with AtaiBeckley takeover
Eli Lilly plans to acquire AtaiBeckley, the clinical-stage psychedelic drug developer, in a deal valued at about $2.8 billion upfront and up to $3.8 billion with milestones. Lilly will pay $6.75 per ATAI share in cash, a roughly 26% premium to the previous close, and could hand over an additional $2.50 per share if future clinical/regulatory milestones are hit. The move gives Lilly access to AtaiBeckley’s pipeline (including BPL-003 and VLS-01) aimed at treating treatment-resistant depression by promoting synaptic connectivity, a mechanism distinct from conventional antidepressants. The agreement signals Lilly’s expanded focus on neuroscience and psychedelic therapies, as AtaiBeckley’s stock surged in pre-market trading on the news. Regulatory approvals and closing conditions will determine final execution.












