Novartis AG

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Novartis AG



TypePublic
Traded asNYSENVS , Template:SIX
Key peopleVasant Narasimhan (CEO)
IndustryPharmaceuticals
ProductsPharmaceuticals, generics, biosimilars
Revenue$49.89 billion (2022)
Employees108,000 (2022)
Website[novartis.com Official website]



Novartis AG is a global healthcare company based in Basel, Switzerland. It is one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world, with a focus on innovative medicines, generics, and biosimilars. Novartis was created in 1996 through the merger of Ciba-Geigy and Sandoz Laboratories.

History[edit | edit source]

Novartis was formed in 1996 from the merger of two Swiss companies, Ciba-Geigy and Sandoz Laboratories, both of which had long histories in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. Ciba-Geigy was itself the result of a merger between Ciba and Geigy in 1970. Sandoz was founded in 1886 as a chemical company.

Business Segments[edit | edit source]

Novartis operates through several business segments:

Innovative Medicines[edit | edit source]

This segment focuses on patented prescription medicines. It is divided into two business units:

  • Pharmaceuticals: This unit focuses on medicines in areas such as oncology, cardiology, ophthalmology, and neuroscience.
  • Oncology: This unit is dedicated to cancer treatments and therapies.

Sandoz[edit | edit source]

Sandoz is the generics and biosimilars division of Novartis. It produces affordable versions of branded medicines and is a leader in the biosimilars market.

Alcon (Former Division)[edit | edit source]

Alcon was the eye care division of Novartis, which was spun off as an independent company in 2019. Alcon focuses on surgical, vision care, and ophthalmic pharmaceuticals.

Research and Development[edit | edit source]

Novartis invests heavily in research and development (R&D) to discover and develop new treatments. The company operates research facilities around the world and collaborates with academic institutions and other companies.

Corporate Social Responsibility[edit | edit source]

Novartis is committed to improving global health and access to medicines. The company has initiatives to provide medicines to underserved populations and to support healthcare infrastructure in developing countries.

Controversies[edit | edit source]

Like many large pharmaceutical companies, Novartis has faced controversies, including legal challenges related to drug pricing and marketing practices. The company has been involved in settlements with various governments over these issues.

Also see[edit | edit source]


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