Astrazeneca (NYSE:AZN) is a global biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Cambridge, England. Formed through the 1999 merger of Sweden’s Astra AB and the UK’s Zeneca Group, the company researches, develops, manufactures and commercializes prescription medicines across a range of therapeutic areas. AstraZeneca positions itself as R&D-driven, investing in discovery science, clinical development and regulatory processes to bring new therapies to market.
The company’s commercial portfolio and late-stage pipeline emphasize oncology, cardiovascular, renal and metabolic (CVRM) diseases, and respiratory and immunology. Well-known marketed products include Tagrisso (osimertinib) and Imfinzi (durvalumab) in oncology, Lynparza (olaparib) developed in partnership for certain cancer indications, Farxiga (dapagliflozin) for diabetes and heart failure, and Brilinta (ticagrelor) in cardiology. AstraZeneca also collaborated with the University of Oxford to develop the Vaxzevria COVID-19 vaccine. Beyond marketed drugs, AstraZeneca pursues strategic partnerships, licensing and acquisitions to expand its scientific and commercial reach.
AstraZeneca operates commercially and conducts clinical research around the world, with significant commercial presence in the United States, Europe, China and emerging markets. Its operations encompass global manufacturing and supply chains, clinical trial networks, and collaborations with academic institutions and biotech companies. The company frequently engages with regulators in major markets to obtain approvals and manage post-approval commitments.
Leadership has emphasized a long-term focus on innovation and targeted investment in specific therapeutic areas; Pascal Soriot has served as chief executive officer, overseeing strategy that prioritizes oncology and cardiometabolic research while building a diversified pipeline. AstraZeneca’s business model centers on discovery-led development, strategic alliances and global commercialization to deliver prescription medicines to patients worldwide.
