NORWALK, Conn. — IMS Health has agreed to be acquired by investment funds managed by financial firms TPG Capital and the CPP Investment Board in a $5.2 billion deal.

The pharmaceutical and health care information company said Thursday that the acquisition is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2010, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.

Under the agreement, which includes the assumption of debt, IMS shareholders will receive $22.00 in cash for each share of IMS common stock they own, representing a premium of about 50% over the closing share price on October 16, IMS Health reported.

The transaction has fully committed financing, consisting of a combination of equity to be invested by TPG and CPPIB and debt financing to be provided by certain affiliates of Goldman, Sachs & Co.

"This transaction enables our shareholders to realize substantial value from their investment in IMS with an immediate cash premium, while at the same time strengthening our position to capture long-term growth opportunities," IMS Health chairman and chief executive officer David Carlucci said in a statement.

"With the backing of world-class private equity partners, we will continue our focus on expanding into new markets, further improving the quality and depth of offerings we deliver to our clients, and playing a bigger role in the health care market."

Senior TPG partner Jonathan Coslet commented, "IMS Health has consistently demonstrated it is the definitive source of critical data and services to the evolving health care industry. We are pleased to join with our long-time partner, CPP Investment Board, and a talented management team to continue the growth of this outstanding franchise."