Janssen Pharmaceutica

Janssen Pharmaceutica is a pharmaceutical company that was established in Belgium in 1953. It is a subsidiary of the American multinational healthcare company, Johnson & Johnson. The company is named after its founder, Dr. Paul Janssen, a renowned Belgian researcher, pharmacologist, and physician.

History

Janssen Pharmaceutica was founded by Dr. Paul Janssen in 1953 in Turnhout, Belgium. The company was initially a part of the N.V. Produkten Richter company, which was owned by Janssen's father. In 1961, Janssen Pharmaceutica was acquired by the American company Johnson & Johnson. Despite the acquisition, the company retained a significant degree of autonomy, with its headquarters remaining in Belgium.

Research and Development

Janssen Pharmaceutica has been involved in the research and development of a number of significant pharmaceutical drugs. These include haloperidol (Haldol), an antipsychotic medication; risperidone (Risperdal), used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder; and fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid pain medication.

In recent years, the company has also been involved in the development of treatments for COVID-19, including a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine.

Operations

Janssen Pharmaceutica operates globally, with research and development facilities in Belgium, the United States, and other countries. The company's products are sold in over 150 countries worldwide.

Criticisms and Controversies

Janssen Pharmaceutica, like many pharmaceutical companies, has faced criticism and legal action related to the marketing and side effects of its drugs. This includes lawsuits related to the company's marketing of risperidone and its role in the opioid crisis in the United States.

See Also

• Pharmaceutical industry in Belgium
• List of pharmaceutical companies
• Johnson & Johnson