(Reuters) -Pfizer has received early U.S. antitrust clearance more than a week early for its proposed $7.3 billion Metsera acquisition, which has been called into question by Novo Nordisk’s higher $8.5 billion offer.

Metsera has declared Novo’s offer superior, and given Pfizer until Tuesday to raise its bid.

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission granted early termination of the waiting period required under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act, which governs antitrust reviews. The waiting period was originally set to expire on November 7, Pfizer said on Friday.

The clearance means Pfizer could move ahead with its proposed purchase of Metsera without further antitrust review from U.S. regulators. Metsera shareholders are currently due to vote on the deal on November 13.

Pfizer said Danish drugmaker No

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