Fast-Growing Shire PLC Had Pharmaceutical Rivals in a Takeover Frenzy

Commotion was a reminder of the vital role deal-making plays for drug companies amid risks of R&D

Drugmaker Shire PLC has become the subject of topsy-turvy takeover interest, drawing suitors to one of the few remaining biotechs with rapidly rising sales and a stock price that hasn’t soared in recent months.

Japan’s Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. kicked off the activity Thursday by disclosing it made a £42.38 billion ($60 billion) offer for Dublin-based Shire.

Shortly...