2020 Revenues ($USD) : $6,070,000,000
2020 R&D spend : $68,600,000
2020 Number of Employees : 3,800
Fiscal Year End : 12/31/2020
Key People : Ludwig N. Hantson, CEO

Looking to expand its offerings in the immunology space, AstraZeneca is in the process of acquiring Alexion in a $39 billion deal slated to close in Q3 2021.

Boston-based Alexion has been a pioneer when it comes to treatment of immune-mediated rare diseases caused by uncontrolled activation of the complement system, an important part of the immune system. The company is probably best known for Soliris (eculizumab), a first-in-class anti-complement component 5 monoclonal antibody used in many countries to treat people with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH), atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome, generalized myasthenia gravis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Alexion more recently launched Ultomiris (ravulizumab), a second-generation C5 monoclonal antibody that boasts a more convenient dosing regimen. –CN