Best top 15 pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland - (2024)

Interested in knowing about the pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland, don’t worry this article gives a better insight into the top best pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland.

There are many pharma companies in Switzerland and many have stood out on various world occasions from their exceptional performances.

We cannot discuss the pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland or others globally without mentioning the economic impact.

%30 of swiss exports are made up of pharmaceutical products from these companies scattered in different regions of the country.

As of 2017, Switzerland was recorded as the 2nd largest exporter of package medicine. With this, you can be certain that the pharma industries in Switzerland are not relenting in the services.

Introduction to the pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland

The Swiss pharma industries have great positive impacts on the economy ranging from employment rates and revenue generation.

Over 140,000 people are directly or indirectly working in the pharmaceutical industries in Switzerland and also contribute to 5.7% of the gross domestic product of Switzerland with %30 export from pharma industries having a worth of about $84 billion.

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Switzerland is home to many pharmaceutical companies, as of 2013 41 life science companies had their international headquarters sighted in Switzerland.

Favorable government policies, a conducive and secured environment can be linked to the foreign attraction of these companies.

Top 10 best pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland

Below is the list of 20 outstanding domestic pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland however there are many pharma companies scattered in different regions in Switzerland;

  • Hoffmann-La Roche
  • Novartis
  • Alcon
  • Lonza Group
  • Galenica
  • Sonova
  • Ferring Pharmaceuticals
  • Galderma
  • Octapharma
  • Vifor Pharma
  • Straumann
  • Tecan
  • Acino Holding
  • Ypsomed
  • OM Pharma

Hoffmann-La Roche

Hoffmann-La Roche AG, commonly known as Roche, is a Swiss multinational healthcare company that operates worldwide under two divisions: Pharmaceuticals and Diagnostics.

It was founded on 1st October 1892 by Fritz Hoffmann-La Roche. Last year, it had revenue 58.32 billion CHF. Internally, Roche is organized into five major business areas: Roche Applied Science, Roche Professional Diagnostics, Roche Diabetes Care, Roche Molecular Diagnostics, and Roche Tissue Diagnostics (Ventana).

Among the Roche products is a non-prescription cough syrup containing its own active ingredient, Thiocol.

The orange-flavored syrup is an almost immediate success. Launched under the trademark Sirolin in 1898, the syrup remains on the market for over 60 years.

Address: Grenzacherstrasse 124 Basel, 4070 Switzerland

Tel: + 41 61 715 4345

Fax: + 41 61 815 28 45

Email: [emailprotected]

Novartis

This is one of the pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland with 110,000 employees as of last year. Novartis has $48.66 billion in revenue as of 2020.

They focus to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people’s lives with the use of innovative science and technology to address some of society’s most challenging healthcare issues.

Address: Forum 1 Novartis Campus Basel, CH-4056 Switzerland

Tel: +41 61 324 11 11
Fax: +41 61 324 80 01

Alcon

Alcon was founded in 1945 and is also among the outstanding pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland specializing in eye care products.

They have a Revenue of $7.4 billion in 2019 and work in over 70 countries with their pharma products serving patients in more than 140 countries.

Alcon has a long history of industry firsts, and each year we commit a substantial amount in Research and Development to meet customer needs and patient demands.

Address: Rue Louis-d’Affry 6, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland

Tel +41 58 911 38 00

Fax: 0844 828 289

Lonza Group

Lonza Group is a Swiss multinational chemicals and biotechnology company founded in 1897, with revenue of 4.508 billion CHF in 2020. They have 13,856 employees in 2020.

It is a leading global provider of integrated healthcare solutions that focus on enabling treatments that prevent illness and support healthier lifestyles.

They optimize scientific innovation and manufacturing technology to enable our customers to serve their patients and consumers.

Lonza provides a wide range of services and products from early phase discovery to custom development and manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients to innovative dosage forms for the pharma and consumer health and nutrition industries.

Address: Lonza Group Ltd Muenchensteinerstrasse 38 CH-4002 Basel Switzerland

Tel: +41 61 316 81 11
Fax: +41 61 316 91 11

Galenica

This pharma company was founded in 1927 and as of 2019 it was recorded to have about 7,000 employees.

Galenica operates the largest network of pharmacies in Switzerland and offers well-known own brands and products, exclusive brands and products from business partners as well as a variety of on-site health services and tests for customers.

With over 500 own, joint venture, and independent partner pharmacies, their network of pharmacies offer unique potential for the sale of these and other brands.

Address: Untermattweg 8 Bern, 3027 Switzerland

Tel: +41 58 852 85 17
Fax: +41 58 852 85 58

Sonova

Sonova Holding is an internationally active Swiss company founded in 1947. It focuses on hearing care solutions. It is one of the largest providers in the sector worldwide and has about 14,200 employees as of 2018.

The group operates through its core business brands Phonak, Unitron, Hansaton, Advanced Bionics, and AudioNova. Across all businesses, Sonova pursues its vision of a world where everyone enjoys the delight of hearing and therefore lives a life without limitations.

Address: Laubisrütistrasse 28 8712 Stäfa Switzerland

Tel: +41 58 928 01 01

Fax: +41 58 928 20 11

Ferring Pharmaceuticals

Ferring Pharmaceuticals is a Swiss multinational biopharmaceutical company specializing in areas such as reproductive health, maternal health, gastroenterology, and urology.

It was founded in 1950 by Frederik Paulsen Sr and has a Revenue of 1.947 billion EUR in 2020. As of 2017, ferring had over 6,400 employees.

Address: Ferring International Center S.A. Ch. de la Vergognausaz 50 1162 Saint-Prex Switzerland

Tel: +41 58 301 00 00
Fax: +41 58 301 00 10

Galderma

Galderma S.A. is a Swiss pharmaceutical company specializing in dermatological treatments and skincare products. It has over 5,000 employees.

It was founded by Nestle and focuses to enhance the quality of people’s lives through our innovative, science-based portfolio of sophisticated brands and services, trusted and recommended by healthcare professionals.

Address: Zugerstrasse 8 Postfach 492 Cham, 6330 Switzerland

Tel: +41 21 642 78 00

Octapharma

Octapharma was founded in 1983 by Wolfgang Marguerre. It is a family-owned pharmaceutical company, and bills itself as “one of the largest human protein manufacturers in the world, developing and producing human proteins from human plasma and human cell lines.

It has 31 locations with over 9,000 employees as of 2020. Octapharm 5 values remain Ownership, Integrity, Leadership, Sustainability, and Entrepreneurship.

Address: Seidenstrasse 2. Lachen SZ ​, SCHWYZ, 8853. Switzerland

Tel: +41 55 451 2121
Fax: +41 55 451 2110

Vifor Pharma

Vifor Pharma Group is a global specialty pharmaceuticals company and consists of the following companies: Vifor Pharma; Vifor Fresenius Medical Care Renal Pharma, a joint company with Fresenius Medical Care and Relypsa.

It was founded in 1933 and as of 2020 had a revenue of 1.7 billion CHF.

Vifor is among the world leaders in the discovery, development, manufacturing, and marketing of pharmaceutical products for the treatment of iron deficiency. The company also offers a diversified portfolio of prescription medicines as well as non-prescription drugs.

Address: Flughofstrasse 61 Glattbrugg, 8152 Switzerland

Tel: +41 58 851 61 11

Straumann

Straumann is committed to being your global partner of choice for premium tooth replacement solutions. It was founded in 1954 with over 5,954 employees as of 2018.

Straumann Group researches and develops manufactures and supplies dental implants, instruments, biomaterials, CADCAM prosthetics, digital equipment, software, and clear aligners for applications in replacement, restorative, orthodontic, and preventative dentistry.

Address: Straumann Holding AG Peter Merian-Weg 12 4002 Basel Switzerland

Phone: +41 61 965 11 11

Fax: +41 61 965 11 01

E-Mail: [emailprotected]

Tecan

Tecan Group Ltd. Was founded in 1980 and has over 1,500 employees. It is a Swiss company providing laboratory instruments and solutions in biopharmaceuticals, forensics, and clinical diagnostics for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, university research departments, and diagnostic laboratories.

Their systems and components help people working in clinical diagnostics, basic and translational research and drug discovery bring their science to life.

In particular, they develop, produce, market, and support automated workflow solutions that empower laboratories to achieve more.

Address: Tecan Group Ltd. Seestrasse 103 8708 Männedorf Switzerland

Tel: +41 44 922 81 11

Fax: +41 44 922 81 12

Email: [emailprotected]

Acino Holding

This company was established in 1836. They develop, manufacture and internationally market well-proven and innovative pharmaceuticals in novel drug delivery forms.

Acino is one of the leaders in advanced drug delivery technologies with a focus on modified release oral forms, and oral dispersible forms, for which we also hold patents.

Address: Thurgauerstrasse 36/38 CH-8050 Zurich switzwerland.

Tel: +41 44 555 22 00
Email: [emailprotected]wiss

Ypsomed

This pharma company was founded on 29th December 2003. The Ypsomed Group is a leading developer and manufacturer of injection and infusion systems for self-medication and a renowned diabetes specialist.

They develop and produce custom-made injection systems and also manufacture compatible pen needles with a unique click-on function for our own and all other widely available pens.

Address: Brunnmattstrasse 6 Burgdorf, 3401 Switzerland

Tel: +41 (0)34 424 41 11

Fax: +41 (0)34 424 41 22

Email: [emailprotected]

OM Pharma

OM Pharma is a global Geneva-based biopharmaceutical company. It is a leader in the prevention of recurrent respiratory and urinary tract infections and is also active in the treatment of vascular diseases.

Their marketed portfolio includes products for respiratory tract infections, lower urinary tract infections, chronic venous insufficiency, microangiopathies (e.g. diabetic retinopathy), hemorrhoids, and menometrorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding). Its key brands are Broncho-Vaxom®, Dicynone®, Doxium®, and Uro-Vaxom.

Address: Rue du Bois-du-Lan 22/1217, 1 Meyrin, Switzerland

Phone:+41 22 783 11 11

Conclusion on the pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland

The pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland strive vehemently to give out their best in research, development, and distribution.

These companies have impacted the economic development of Switzerland and the world at large. However, it is important to note these companies listed above are in no order of ranking.

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Best top 15 pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland - (2024)

FAQs

How many pharmaceutical companies are in Switzerland? ›

Switzerland's relationship within Europe

With over 250 pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies based across Basel, Zurich, Geneva and other core cities in Switzerland, there is already a proven and well-resourced access to talent, resources, funding and clinical development within the country.

Which is the No 1 pharma company in world? ›

Johnson & Johnson is the largest pharmaceutical company in the world in 2020, with revenues of USD 82.06 billion — the number ranking pharma company by sales. Johnson & Johnson is an American multinational corporation founded in 1886 that develops medical devices, pharmaceuticals and also consumer packaged goods.

WHY IS pharma in Switzerland? ›

As a highly specialized production location for pharmaceutical products, Switzerland enjoys an excellent reputation the world over. Both multinational corporations and small and medium-sized pharmaceutical companies benefit from ideal infrastructure and well-trained professionals here.

Which country has the best pharmaceutical industry? ›

2020
  • Germany: US$60.8 billion (14.9% of total exported drugs and medicines)
  • Switzerland: $48.1 billion (11.8%)
  • Belgium: $31.1 billion (7.6%)
  • France: $28.4 billion (7%)
  • Italy: $27.2 billion (6.7%)
  • United States: $24.7 billion (6.1%)
  • Ireland: $23.1 billion (5.7%)
  • Netherlands: $19.8 billion (4.9%)

Can Indian pharmacist work in Switzerland? ›

In 2015, the Swiss government reduced the number of work permits available for non-EU nationals. The first point of call would be to figure out whether you can obtain a work permit Non-EU/EFTA citizens (such as Indian pharmacists) will need to get a special residence permit with authorisation to work in Switzerland.

What are the main industries in Switzerland? ›

The two main branches of the industrial sector – chemicals and pharmaceuticals and mechanical/electrical engineering and metals – have a strong export focus. The watchmaking industry is Switzerland's third largest exporter and is renowned worldwide for its high quality, tradition and innovation.

Why are companies based in Switzerland? ›

Switzerland has a strategic location

Due to its central location, Switzerland benefits from the proximity to economically strong countries such as Germany, Italy and France. Because of this, Switzerland is a great starting point for businesses that want to enter on the European market.

How many pharmaceutical companies are in Basel? ›

Currently, there are 900 pharmaceutical and MedTech companies which employ 50,000 workers in the region of Basel.

IS Pharma a drug company? ›

A pharmaceutical company, or drug company, is a commercial business licensed to research, develop, market and/or distribute drugs, most commonly in the context of healthcare.

How many pharmaceutical companies are there? ›

There are 2,015 Brand Name Pharmaceutical Manufacturing businesses in the US as of 2022, an increase of 6.5% from 2021.

Which country is known as pharmacy of world? ›

The pharma industry in India contributes more than 20% by volume of the global generics market and 62% of the worldwide demand for vaccines," she said. India's domestic pharmaceutical market size was recorded at $42 billion in 2021 and is projected to expand to $120 billion by 2030.

Which country is the largest producer of medicine in the world 2022? ›

In the global pharmaceuticals sector, India is a significant and rising player. India is the world's largest supplier of generic medications, accounting for 20% of the worldwide supply by volume and supplying about 60% of the global vaccination demand.

Who is the richest pharmacist in the world? ›

Navinchandra Jamnadas Engineer (born May 1951) is the richest graduated pharmacist in the world. The British billionaire, originally from Kenya, owns Chemidex, an Egham / Surrey based pharmaceutical company that he founded in 1981.

Why are pharmaceutical companies so important? ›

Pharmaceutical companies boost the global economy

As well as driving medical progress by researching, developing and bringing new medicines that improve health and quality of life for patients around the world, the pharmaceutical industry is a key asset to the global economy.

Which country in Europe has the most pharmaceutical companies? ›

Switzerland. Despite boasting a population just one tenth the size of neighbour Germany, Switzerland is by far Europe's biggest pharma producer, with production values of upwards of EUR 54.3 billion in 2019.

Which country is biggest medicine producer? ›

The biggest pharmaceutical companies in the world, known as “big pharma”, are American and European. The top five are Pfizer (US), Roche, Novartis (both Swiss), Merck (US) and GlaxoSmithKline (UK). Yet these companies – and the pharmaceutical industry as a whole – rely on global supply chains.

Which European country has more pharmaceutical companies? ›

The UK had the highest number of leading pharmaceutical and biotechnological companies in 2020 with 53, a decrease of four from the preceding year. France and Germany followed with 23 and 15 companies, respectively.

How much does pharmacist make in Switzerland? ›

A person working as a Pharmacist in Switzerland typically earns around 160,000 CHF per year. Salaries range from 78,400 CHF (lowest) to 250,000 CHF (highest). This is the average yearly salary including housing, transport, and other benefits.

How do I become a foreign pharmacist in Switzerland? ›

Dr. Muhammad Awais Pharmacist (R.ph) - YouTube

Who is the most famous person in Switzerland? ›

Famous Swiss People
Ursula ANDRESSRené BAUMANNJohann BERNOULLI
Gottfried KELLERClaude NICOLLIERSimone NIGGLI-LUDER
Author 1819-1890 on the webFirst and only Swiss astronaut Born September 2, 1944 on the webOrienteering world champion Born January 9, 1978 on the web
Auguste PICCARDJacques PICCARDBertrand PICCARD
27 more rows

What is Switzerland main income? ›

Approximately 74% of Swiss GDP is generated by the services sector and 25% by industry. The agricultural sector contributes less than 1%. The EU is Switzerland's main trading partner. Around 66% of Swiss imports are from the EU, while 43% of Swiss exports are to EU countries.

Why is Switzerland so rich? ›

Pharmaceuticals, gems, chemicals, and machinery are the main contributors. Another key factor is Switzerland's focus on its own industries. The country's attitude towards free trade has resulted in a focus on creating things domestically rather than buying cheap exports from other countries.

Is Nestlé A Swiss company? ›

Is Nestlé a Swiss company? Yes, the company is listed in Switzerland and is therefore subject to Swiss company law. Our headquarters are in Vevey, Switzerland, we report our consolidated accounts in Swiss francs (CHF) and about one third of our shareholders are Swiss.

Which multinational companies are in Switzerland? ›

15 Fortune 500 Companies Headquartered in Switzerland
  • Glencore International. Fortune 500 Rank: 14. ...
  • Nestlé Fortune 500 Rank: 14. ...
  • Novartis. Fortune 500 Rank: 157. ...
  • Zurich Insurance Group. Fortune 500 Rank: 178. ...
  • Roche Group. Fortune 500 Rank: 192. ...
  • Credit Suisse. Fortune 500 Rank: 204. ...
  • UBS AG. Fortune 500 Rank: 215. ...
  • ABB Group.

What brands does Pfizer own? ›

Pfizer brands include Advil, Bextra, Celebrex, Diflucan, Lyrica, Robitussin and Viagra. The Big Pharma company is also the mastermind behind many popular consumer products.

Who is the owner of Big Pharma? ›

Big Pharma and mainstream media are largely owned by two asset management firms: BlackRock and Vanguard.

Which country has the highest pharmaceutical industry 2021? ›

As of November 2021, the total value of the pharmaceutical sector in the United States was around 2.8 trillion U.S. dollars, while the value in China stood at around 840 billion U.S. dollars.

What is the oldest pharmaceutical company? ›

Three hundred and fifty years ago, the Merck family set up a pharmacy in the German city of Darmstadt. Today, as it celebrates the anniversary of its founding, the world's oldest pharmaceutical company still remains in family hands.

Which country is the third largest producer of medicines in the world? ›

India is the 3rd largest producer of medicine in the world and it also the largest provider of generic medicines globally.

Which country sells most drugs? ›

World's Largest Pharmaceutical Exporters
  • Germany: $84.7 billion.
  • Switzerland: $71.7 billion.
  • United States: $49.7 billion.
  • Belgium: $45.7 billion.
  • Ireland: $40 billion.
Sep 10, 2019

Who is the best medicine in the world? ›

The top 10 meds by sales are:
  • Humira (adalimumab), $8.2 billion.
  • Abilify (aripiprazole), $7.9 billion.
  • Sovaldi (sofosbuvir), $6.9 billion.
  • Crestor (rosuvastatin), $5.9 billion.
  • Enbrel (etanercept), $5.9 billion.
  • Harvoni (ledipasvir and sofosbuvir), $5.3 billion.
  • Nexium (esomeprazole), $5.3 billion.
May 8, 2015

Which country pays the most for pharmacists? ›

5 High-Paying Countries for Pharmacists
  1. United States. Pharmacist average salary: $107,000 to $118,000. ...
  2. Switzerland. Pharmacist average salary: $83,600. ...
  3. Canada. Pharmacist average salary: $80,700. ...
  4. United Kingdom. Pharmacist average salary: $57,000 to $53,300. ...
  5. Germany. Pharmacist average salary: $44,800.
Oct 9, 2015

Who is the father of pharmacy? ›

This Father's Day We're Paying Tribute to William Procter, Jr., the Father of Pharmacy.

Who owns Cipla? ›

Yusuf Hamied is the nonexecutive chairman of $2.6 billion (revenue) generics maker Cipla. The company was founded in 1935 by his father Khwaja Abdul Hamied, a disciple of Mahatma Gandhi.

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