Esperion Therapeutics (NASDAQ: ESPR) Surges 6.53% on Piper Sandler Upgrade, Otsuka Payout, Canada Approval

Esperion Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: ESPR) surged 6.5274% in pre-market trading on December 12, 2025, following a series of strategic developments and analyst upgrades that bolstered investor confidence.

Piper Sandler initiated coverage with an “Overweight” rating and a $9 price target, signaling strong optimism for the company’s pipeline. The firm highlighted Esperion’s partnership with Otsuka Pharmaceutical, which recently launched NEXLETOL in Japan—a milestone triggering a $90 million payment to Esperion. Additional sales milestones and royalties from the drug further solidify near-term revenue potential.

Regulatory progress also fueled momentum. Health Canada approved NILEMDO, Esperion’s LDL-cholesterol lowering therapy, for a Q2 2026 launch, marking a critical step in its global expansion strategy. The approval aligns with growing demand for innovative cardiovascular treatments and reinforces the company’s position in key markets.

Esperion’s financials reflect a mix of growth and challenges. While revenue rose to $332 million, a -14.4% EBIT margin underscores ongoing cost pressures. However, a robust R&D focus and the $90 million cash infusion from NEXLETOL are expected to strengthen liquidity. Analysts view these strategic moves—coupled with expanding partnerships and geographic reach—as catalysts for long-term value creation amid a dynamic healthcare landscape.