Amgen

Definition

Amgen is a leading biotechnology company founded in 1980 that focuses on developing and manufacturing innovative therapeutics, primarily using recombinant DNA technology. The company's commitment to biotechnology allows it to create breakthrough medicines that address serious illnesses, making significant contributions to the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Amgen is known for developing several groundbreaking therapies, including erythropoietin (EPO), which is used to treat anemia associated with chronic kidney disease.
2. The company has a strong focus on research and development, investing heavily in innovative science to bring new therapies to market.
3. Amgen operates globally, with manufacturing facilities located in the United States and Europe, enabling it to meet the demand for its biologic products.
4. In addition to EPO, Amgen has developed other important drugs such as Neulasta and Enbrel, which are used for various medical conditions, including cancer and autoimmune diseases.
5. Amgen has been at the forefront of ethical practices in biotechnology, emphasizing patient safety and transparency in its drug development processes.

Review Questions

• How has Amgen contributed to advancements in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals since its founding?
  • Since its founding in 1980, Amgen has significantly advanced biotechnology by developing groundbreaking therapeutics that leverage recombinant DNA technology. The company has introduced innovative treatments like erythropoietin for anemia and Neulasta for chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. These contributions have not only transformed patient care but have also set a high standard for research and development practices within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Discuss the importance of recombinant DNA technology in Amgen's drug development process and its impact on the pharmaceutical market.
  • Recombinant DNA technology is crucial to Amgen's drug development process as it allows the company to create complex biologic drugs that target specific diseases effectively. This technology has enabled Amgen to produce innovative therapies that are often more effective than traditional small molecule drugs. The impact on the pharmaceutical market has been profound, as these biopharmaceuticals have opened new treatment avenues and have increased competition among companies striving to develop similar therapies.
• Evaluate the ethical considerations surrounding Amgen's practices in biotechnology and how they shape public perception and trust in biopharmaceuticals.
  • Amgen's commitment to ethical practices in biotechnology plays a critical role in shaping public perception and trust in biopharmaceuticals. By prioritizing patient safety, transparency in clinical trials, and responsible marketing, Amgen fosters confidence among healthcare providers and patients alike. This ethical approach not only enhances the company's reputation but also encourages regulatory compliance and supports broader acceptance of biotechnological advancements within the healthcare system.

Related terms

Biopharmaceuticals: Drugs produced using biotechnology methods, including recombinant DNA technology, often involving living organisms to create therapeutic proteins.

Recombinant DNA Technology: A technique used to combine DNA from different sources to produce desired proteins or traits, essential for the development of many biopharmaceuticals.

Biosimilars: Biological products highly similar to an already approved reference product, demonstrating no clinically meaningful differences in terms of safety and effectiveness.