UCB (Union Chimique Belge)

Union Chimique Belge (UCB) is a global biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. UCB focuses on the discovery and development of innovative medicines and solutions to transform the lives of people living with severe diseases of the immune system or the central nervous system. With a commitment to patient-centric innovation, UCB aims to deliver unique outcomes and best-in-class solutions that provide value to patients, healthcare professionals, and healthcare systems.

History

UCB was founded in 1928 by Emmanuel Janssen, a Belgian businessman. Initially, the company was involved in a wide range of chemical manufacturing activities. Over the decades, UCB transitioned towards pharmaceuticals, aligning its operations more closely with healthcare. This shift was marked by significant research and development (R&D) efforts, leading to the discovery and commercialization of key products in the fields of neurology and immunology.

Research and Development

UCB's R&D strategy focuses on the development of novel therapies for diseases with high unmet medical need. The company invests heavily in research to understand the underlying mechanisms of diseases, aiming to discover new therapeutic targets. UCB's pipeline includes potential treatments for conditions such as epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoporosis.

Products

UCB has developed and marketed several key pharmaceutical products that have made significant impacts in their respective therapeutic areas. Some of the company's notable products include:

• Cimzia (certolizumab pegol), used in the treatment of several autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease.
• Vimpat (lacosamide), indicated for the treatment of partial-onset seizures in patients with epilepsy.
• Neupro (rotigotine), a patch for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and restless legs syndrome.
• Briviact (brivaracetam), an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial-onset seizures in patients with epilepsy.

Corporate Social Responsibility

UCB is committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR), with initiatives focusing on access to healthcare, sustainability, and community engagement. The company strives to create value for society while minimizing its environmental footprint and supporting patients beyond medication.

Global Presence

With a global workforce and operations in many countries, UCB's presence spans across Europe, the United States, Asia, and beyond. The company's global approach allows for a broad understanding of diverse patient needs and healthcare systems, facilitating the delivery of innovative solutions worldwide.

Future Directions

UCB continues to invest in the future, with ongoing research in new therapeutic areas and technologies such as gene therapy and digital health. The company's goal is to leverage scientific advancements to develop next-generation therapies that offer improved outcomes for patients living with severe diseases.