History
The Early Years

1913    

              

Nycomed begins its own production of pharmaceutical products. 

1925

Nycomed establishes its own pharmaceutical research activities. 

1937

Research expands to include organic chemistry/synthesis and later diagnostic reagents for anticoagulation treatment.

1985 – 1999

1985               

              
   

Named Norway's 1984 "Company of the Year" in recognition of achievements in research, international exports and profitability. 

1990 to 1993

Extensive acquisition programme of pharmaceutical companies in Norway, Denmark, Austria and the Benelux region.

1994

Pantoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor for acid-related stomach diseases, is launched (by ALTANA Pharma) and goes on to become both ALTANA Pharma and Nycomed’s most important product.

1997 to 1999    Significant reduction in exploratory research activities and new focus on product development and in-licensing.
1999   Nordic Capital, a leading Scandinavian private equity firm, buys Nycomed. Licensing strategy implemented.

1999 – 2007

2002              

     

Secondary buy-out by a consortium of investors led by CSFB Private Equity. First pan-European in-licensing deal (Angiox™).

2003 to 2004

Nycomed assumes full ownership of Oy Leiras Finland Ab; European marketing coverage expanded by entering the UK/Ireland, Italy and Poland.

2004

TachoSil® (haemostatic surgical patch), a fixed combination of a collagen sponge coated with coagulation factors, is launched.

2005

Alvesco® (ciclesonide), a new generation of inhaled corticosteroid for respiratory diseases, and Angiox®, a direct thrombin inhibitor used during PCI, are both launched.

2006

On 21st September 2006 Nycomed acquires ALTANA Pharma AG, the pharmaceutical business of German-based international pharmaceuticals and chemicals group, ALTANA AG.

In October 2006, Preotact®, an anabolic agent for severe osteoporosis, is launched.

2007

Matrifen®, a transdermal patch for severe pain, is launched.