AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca PLC, formed in 1999 through the merger of Sweden's Astra AB and the UK's Zeneca Group PLC, stands as a global biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development, manufacturing, and marketing of prescription medicines across key therapeutic areas.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1999
- Founder
- Merger of Astra AB and Zeneca
- Origin
- UK
Founders
Story Chapters
Timeline
Founding of AstraZeneca
Astra AB and Zeneca Group merged to form AstraZeneca, creating a new leader in the pharmaceutical industry.
Acquisition of Novexel
AstraZeneca acquired Novexel to strengthen its portfolio in anti-infective drugs, enhancing its research capabilities.
Acquisition of MedImmune
AstraZeneca acquired MedImmune for $15.6 billion, expanding its presence in biologics and vaccines.
New Global R&D Headquarters
AstraZeneca announced plans to establish a new global R&D headquarters in Cambridge, UK, to foster innovation.
Formation of AstraZeneca's Oncology Unit
AstraZeneca created a dedicated oncology unit, underscoring its commitment to cancer research and treatment.
Partnership with Eli Lilly
AstraZeneca entered a collaboration with Eli Lilly to develop BACE inhibitors for Alzheimer's disease treatment.
Launch of Tagrisso
AstraZeneca launched Tagrisso, a groundbreaking treatment for non-small cell lung cancer with specific mutations.
COVID-19 Vaccine Development
AstraZeneca, in collaboration with the University of Oxford, developed a COVID-19 vaccine, playing a crucial role in the global pandemic response.
Acquisition of Alexion Pharmaceuticals
AstraZeneca acquired Alexion Pharmaceuticals for $39 billion, enhancing its focus on rare diseases and immunology.
Investment in Sustainability
AstraZeneca committed to a $1 billion investment in sustainability efforts, aiming for zero carbon emissions by 2025.
Connected Across The Archives
Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, dynasties, and treaties that share history with this company.

Civilization Archive
(2)British Imperial Civilization
AstraZeneca's founding reflects the British Empire's legacy of global scientific advancement and its influence on modern pharmaceutical innovation.
European Union Civilization
AstraZeneca emerged as the European Union was forming, symbolizing the era's economic integration and collaborative industrial growth.

Treaty Archive
(2)Anglo-Irish Treaty
The Anglo-Irish Treaty reshaped UK-Ireland economic ties, influencing AstraZeneca's strategic operations across these interconnected markets.
Treaty of Paris (1947)
The Treaty of Paris (1947) redefined European borders post-WWII, impacting AstraZeneca's strategic positioning in a newly structured market.
Explore Related Archives
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