Ironwood Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:IRWD) is a biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in the discovery, development and commercialization of treatments for gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Founded in 1998, Ironwood has built a portfolio focused on addressing conditions characterized by altered GI motility and secretory dysfunction, with an emphasis on novel mechanisms of action.
The company’s flagship product is linaclotide, marketed under the brand name LINZESS® in the United States and by partner companies in Canada and Europe. Linaclotide is an FDA-approved therapy for adults with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC). Beyond linaclotide, Ironwood’s pipeline includes investigational agents targeting gastroparesis, refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease and other GI neuromuscular disorders, leveraging both small-molecule and peptidomimetic approaches.
Ironwood operates in key markets across North America and Europe through direct sales forces and strategic partnerships. Collaborations with global pharmaceutical companies, including Allergan, AbbVie and Helsinn, have enabled broad market access and co-development opportunities. The company maintains research and development facilities in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where it pursues both in-house programs and partnered ventures to expand its therapeutic reach.
Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Peter Hecht and Chief Financial Officer Chitra Venkataraman, Ironwood emphasizes disciplined clinical development and regulatory strategy. The executive team, supported by a board of directors with deep industry experience, continues to guide the company’s mission to innovate in digestive health and address significant unmet medical needs worldwide.
