Santen Pharmaceutical

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Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. is a Japanese pharmaceutical company specializing in ophthalmic treatments. The company was founded in 1890 and is headquartered in Osaka, Japan. Santen focuses on developing, producing and marketing prescription ophthalmic products, over-the-counter eye drops, and medical devices.
History and milestones
Santen was originally founded in 1890 as Kobe Santa Corporation, a wholesaler of Western medicines. In 1917, the company changed its name to Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. and shifted its focus to ophthalmology.
Throughout the 20th century, Santen developed and marketed various ophthalmic treatments, including solutions for cataracts, dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, and others. In the 1960s and 1970s, the company expanded its global presence, establishing subsidiaries and joint ventures in Europe, North America, and Asia.
In the 1980s, Santen began developing and manufacturing intraocular lenses for cataract surgery. In 1989, the company opened a research and development center in Tsukuba, Japan, to further its innovative treatments and medical devices.
In recent years, Santen has continued to expand its portfolio and global presence through acquisitions and partnerships. In 2010, the company acquired the U.S.-based company, ISTA Pharmaceuticals, to further its presence in the U.S. In 2011, Santen acquired the Japanese company, Ophthalmics Inc., and in 2014, the company established a joint venture with GlaxoSmithKline to develop and commercialize innovative ophthalmic products.
Products and Sectors
Santen specializes in prescription ophthalmic products, over-the-counter eye drops, and medical devices for various eye conditions. The company has a wide portfolio of products targeting various eye diseases, including dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal disorders.
Santen’s key products include Ikervis, a prescription eye drop for the treatment of severe dry eye in Europe and other countries, and Taflotan, a prescription eye drop for the treatment of glaucoma in Europe and Asia.
In addition to pharmaceutical treatments, Santen also produces medical devices, including intraocular lenses, surgical instruments, and diagnostic equipment for cataracts and other eye conditions.
Research and Development
Santen invests a significant portion of its revenue into research and development (R&D). The company has established research facilities in Japan, the U.S., Europe, and China to develop innovative treatments for eye diseases. With over 1,600 employees dedicated to R&D, Santen’s efforts have led to the development of numerous innovative treatments and medical devices.
Sustainability
Santen is committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. The company has established initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, promote diversity and inclusion, and contribute to the community through various programs and partnerships.
In 2019, Santen joined the United Nations Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, and pledged to align its operations with the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact in the areas of human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption.
Conclusion
Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. is a leading ophthalmic-focused pharmaceutical company with a long history of developing innovative treatments and medical devices for eye diseases. Through its commitment to R&D and sustainability, Santen remains dedicated to improving the lives of those suffering from eye conditions globally.

There are a few unique aspects that set the Santen Pharmaceutical company apart from other pharmaceutical companies:
1. Focus on Ophthalmology: Santen specializes in pharmaceuticals and medical devices for ophthalmic diseases and conditions. This focused approach allows them to be an expert in eye health and provide innovative treatments for patients with eye diseases and disorders.
2. Global Presence: Santen is a global company with a strong presence in Asia, Europe, and the United States. This allows them to reach a wider market and provide their products to a diverse range of patients worldwide.
3. Commitment to Research and Development: Santen invests heavily in research and development, with a focus on improving patient outcomes and developing new treatments for eye diseases. They have a dedicated R&D center and collaborations with leading research institutions.
4. Sustainability: Santen is committed to sustainability and ethical business practices. They have implemented initiatives to reduce their environmental impact and promote social responsibility, such as using eco-friendly materials and promoting diversity and inclusion within the company.
5. Patient-Centric Approach: Santen puts the patient at the center of everything they do, with a goal of improving the quality of life for those affected by eye diseases. They strive to listen to patients and healthcare professionals and develop products that meet their needs.
6. Partnership and Collaboration: Santen partners with other companies and organizations to develop new treatments and improve patient care. They also collaborate with patient organizations and advocacy groups to raise awareness about eye health and support patients.

The Santen Pharmaceutical company’s business model focuses on research, development, production, and marketing of pharmaceuticals and medical devices in the ophthalmic field. Their main products include prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and medical devices for treatment of various eye diseases and conditions. They also have a strong presence in international markets through partnerships and collaborations with other pharmaceutical companies. The company’s business strategy is based on innovation, quality, and global expansion to meet the needs of patients and healthcare professionals.

1. Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. began its humble journey in Japan as a wholesale druggist in 1890, under the name Fukuhara Kitagawa Shoten.
2. In 1919, Fukuhara Kitagawa Shoten was incorporated and renamed Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. The company was focused on the production of eye drops and other eye care products.
3. Today, Santen is one of the largest Japanese companies that specializes in the development, production, and marketing of ophthalmic pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and over-the-counter eye care products.
4. The company has a strong international presence, with operations in over 60 countries and regions worldwide.
5. Santen’s corporate mission is to contribute to the well-being of patients by providing innovative, high-quality products and services in the field of ophthalmology.
6. Santen has a strong commitment to research and development, investing over 20% of its revenue in the development of new products and technologies.
7. The company is known for its expertise in the treatment of glaucoma, dry eye disease, and other eye disorders. It also offers a range of surgical products for cataract and glaucoma surgeries.
8. Santen has received numerous awards and accolades for its commitment to corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and ethical business practices.
9. In addition to its pharmaceutical products, Santen also offers a range of non-pharmaceutical products, including contact lenses, eye care supplements, and medical devices.
10. Despite its global success, Santen remains a family-run company with the fourth and fifth generations of the original founders still involved in the business. This has helped to maintain a strong sense of tradition, commitment to excellence, and dedication to patient care.