Glaukos Corporation to merge with Avedro Inc.

Glaukos Corporation an ophthalmic medical technology and pharmaceutical company focused on novel therapies for the treatment of glaucoma, corneal disorders and retinal diseases, and Avedro, Inc., a leading hybrid ophthalmic pharmaceutical and medical technology company focused on treating corneal disease and disorders, announced that the companies have entered into a definitive merger agreement under which Glaukos will acquire Avedro in an all-stock transaction. The transaction, which is subject to Avedro stockholder approval along with other customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, has been approved by the board of directors of both companies and is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2019.The acquisition combines two complementary, hybrid ophthalmic pharmaceutical and device organizations and establishes the cornerstone for Glaukos� new corneal health franchise, providing synergistic avenues for potential long-term growth in large, underserved markets. Glaukos plans to leverage its proven market-building expertise, global commercial scale and extensive clinical and regulatory infrastructure to maximize Avedro�s disruptive bio-activated pharmaceuticals and pipeline.