Generics
Novartis is the only major pharmaceutical company to have leadership positions in both patented prescription drugs and generic pharmaceuticals.
We are the world's second largest producer of generic pharmaceuticals. Under the Sandoz brand, we provide high-quality, low-cost medicines to reduce the financial burden on healthcare systems and other payors.
This position provides us with a unique window into issues concerning access to medicine.
The Sandoz mission: Making health accessible to all
Sandoz was a predecessor to Novartis. In May 2003, Novartis united 14 of its generic companies under the Sandoz brand to strengthen recognition among healthcare providers. This initiative capitalized on the strong reputation of the Sandoz name, which has a high level of awareness and trust among physicians, pharmacists and patients. 90% of the world's population has access to Sandoz medicines.