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2024-04-18 00:00:49

Amgen

American biopharmaceutical company
American biopharmaceutical company

Amgen, formerly Applied Molecular Genetics Inc., is a leading biopharmaceutical company based in California. With approximately 24,000 employees worldwide, Amgen is known for its innovative products such as Enbrel and Neulasta.

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1979
AMGen scientists attempt various projects

In the early years of AMGen, scientists worked on diverse projects such as creating organisms for oil extraction, accelerating chicken growth, producing specialty chemicals, cloning luciferase, and developing a method for indigo dye production in E. coli. Their success in producing indigo dye in bacteria earned them a cover feature in Science magazine.

1980-04-08
Amgen Incorporation

AMGen (Applied Molecular Genetics Inc.) is established in Thousand Oaks, California, on April 8, 1980, as the brainchild of venture capitalists William K. (Bill) Bowes and associates. With a staff of three, the Company occupies a shared building, now called “Building 1.

1981
Amgen begins operations in Thousand Oaks, California

In 1981, Amgen started its operations in Thousand Oaks, California, in close proximity to thriving research centers at nearby universities. It had an impressive scientific advisory board and a visionary CEO, George B. Rathmann.

1982
Early experiments at Amgen

In 1982, Amgen conducts early experiments under the leadership of George B. Rathmann. These experiments mark the beginning of the company's scientific endeavors and technological advancements.

1983-06-17
Amgen's IPO raises nearly $40 million

On June 17, 1983, Amgen's Initial Public Offering (IPO) raised nearly $40 million, marking a significant milestone in the company's financial history.

1984-06
Amgen and Kirin Joint Venture

In June 1984, Amgen and Kirin established a joint venture, granting Kirin the rights to Epogen in Japan.

1985
Amgen receives first U.S. patent for recombinant erythropoietin

Amgen obtained the initial patent in the United States for the production of recombinant erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. This marked a significant milestone in the field of biotechnology.

1988-10
Gordon Binder Named CEO of Amgen

In October 1988, Gordon Binder was appointed as the CEO of Amgen, succeeding George Rathmann.

1989-06-01
FDA Approval of EPOGEN® (epoetin alfa)

On June 1, 1989, the FDA approves EPOGEN® (epoetin alfa) which is later named Product of the Year by Fortune magazine.

1990
Introduction to Biotechnology

Amgen introduced biotechnology concepts in 1990.

1991-02-21
FDA approval of NEUPOGEN® (filgrastim)

On February 21, 1991, NEUPOGEN® (filgrastim) receives approval from the FDA.

1992-01-02
Amgen added to S&P 500

On January 2, 1992, Amgen was included in the S&P 500 index, a significant milestone for the company's recognition and market presence.

1993-03
Opening of Amgen's Manufacturing Facility in Puerto Rico

In March 1993, Amgen inaugurated a new manufacturing facility in Puerto Rico, which later became the company's primary manufacturing site.

1994
Amgen wins the National Medal of Technology

In 1994, Amgen became the first biotech company to receive the U.S. Department of Commerce National Medal of Technology, an award equivalent to the Nobel Prize. The recognition was for their groundbreaking work in developing cost-effective therapeutics using advancements in cellular and molecular biology.

1995
Discovery of Osteoprotegerin (OPG) and Denosumab

In 1995, scientists at Amgen identified and cloned osteoprotegerin (OPG), which was later found to act as a decoy receptor for RANK ligand. This discovery laid the foundation for the development of denosumab.

1996
Amgen subsidiary deCODE Genetics founded

Amgen subsidiary deCODE Genetics was established in 1996 to delve into human genetics and enhance the understanding of molecular roots of diseases.

1997
First European manufacturing site opened

In 1997, Amgen opened its first manufacturing site in Europe, marking a significant expansion of its operations to the European market.

1998-11-02
FDA Approval of Enbrel (etanercept)

On November 2, 1998, the FDA approved Enbrel (etanercept), a significant milestone in the field of medicine.

2000-05
Kevin Sharer Becomes CEO of Amgen

In May 2000, Kevin Sharer assumed the role of CEO at Amgen, succeeding Gordon Binder.

2001-09-17
FDA Approval of Aranesp® (darbepoetin alfa)

On September 17, 2001, the FDA approves Aranesp® (darbepoetin alfa), a medication developed by Amgen.

2002-01-31
FDA Approval of Neulasta (pegfilgrastim)

On January 31, 2002, the FDA approved Neulasta (pegfilgrastim), a medication used to reduce the risk of infection in patients undergoing cancer treatment.

2004-03-08
FDA Approval of Sensipar (cinacalcet)

On March 8, 2004, the FDA approved Sensipar (cinacalcet), a medication used to treat hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease.

2005
Founding of Breakaway from Cancer®

In 2005, Amgen founded Breakaway from Cancer, a national initiative aimed at raising awareness about important health issues.

2006-04
Amgen's Acquisition of Abgenix and FDA Approval of Vectibix

In April 2006, Amgen acquired Abgenix, the developer of Vectibix (panitumumab), a treatment for certain patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Subsequently, Vectibix received FDA approval in September 2006.

2007
Amgen Scholars Program Launch

In 2007, the Amgen Foundation, in partnership with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), initiates the Amgen Scholars program. This program aims to offer undergraduate students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research experiences and gain exposure to biotechnology and drug discovery at leading institutions worldwide.

2008-08-22
FDA approval of Nplate® (romiplostim)

On August 22, 2008, the FDA approved Nplate® (romiplostim), a medication.

2009
Nplate® (romiplostim) wins 'Best Biotechnology Product' award

In 2009, Nplate® (romiplostim) was honored with the 'Best Biotechnology Product' award by Prix Galien.

2010-06-06
FDA Approval of Prolia and Xgeva by Amgen

On June 6, 2010, Amgen obtained FDA approval for Prolia, a protein drug for post-menopausal osteoporosis treatment. Additionally, in November 2010, Xgeva was approved by the FDA for preventing complications of bone metastases in patients with solid tumors.

2011-03
Amgen's Acquisition of a Manufacturing Facility in Dublin, Ireland

In March 2011, Amgen acquired a manufacturing facility near Dublin, Ireland.

2011-05
Amgen's Acquisition of BioVex

In May 2011, Amgen acquired BioVex, the developer of Imlygic (talimogene laherparepvec).

2011-12
Collaboration between Amgen and Watson Pharmaceuticals

In December 2011, Amgen and Watson Pharmaceuticals announced a collaboration to develop and commercialize several biosimilar medicines worldwide.

2012-12-18
Amgen's Illegal Marketing Practices

On December 18, 2012, Amgen pleaded guilty to illegal marketing practices, agreeing to pay significant penalties to resolve related complaints. The company was accused of pursuing profits at the expense of patient safety.

2013-03
Amgen Acquires Micromet

In March 2013, Amgen acquired Micromet, a company specializing in BiTE technology.

2013-05
Kevin Sharer Retires and Robert Bradway Becomes CEO of Amgen

In May 2013, Kevin Sharer retired from Amgen, and Robert Bradway, the former president and COO, took over as CEO.

2013-06
Amgen Acquires Mustafa Nevzat Pharmaceuticals

In June 2013, Amgen expanded its presence in Turkey and nearby areas by acquiring Mustafa Nevzat Pharmaceuticals.

2013-07
Amgen Acquires KAI Pharmaceuticals

In July 2013, Amgen acquired KAI Pharmaceuticals, the developer of Parsabiv (etelcalcetide).

2013-10
Amgen Acquires Onyx Pharmaceuticals

In October 2013, Amgen acquired Onyx Pharmaceuticals, the developer of Kyprolis (carfilzomib).

2013-12
Amgen Acquires deCODE Genetics

In December 2013, Amgen acquired deCODE Genetics, an Iceland-based company.

2014-12-03
FDA approval of BLINCYTO® (blinatumomab)

On December 3, 2014, BLINCYTO® (blinatumomab) was approved by the FDA.

2015-10-27
FDA Approval of IMLYGIC™

IMLYGIC™ (talimogene laherparepvec) is approved by the FDA on October 27, 2015.

2016-07-11
Approval of Repatha® (evolocumab) Pusthronex™ system

On July 11, 2016, the Repatha® (evolocumab) Pusthronex™ system, which includes an on-body infusor with a prefilled cartridge, is granted approval.

2016-09-23
Amgen's AMJEVITA™ approved as first biosimilar

On September 23, 2016, AMJEVITA™ (Adalimumab-Atto) became Amgen's first biosimilar to receive regulatory approval, showcasing the company's innovation in the biopharmaceutical sector.

2017-11-11
Launch of ENBREL Mini™ single-dose prefilled cartridge with AutoTouch™ Reusable Autoinjector

On November 11, 2017, Amgen introduced the ENBREL Mini™ single-dose prefilled cartridge with AutoTouch™ Reusable Autoinjector, specially designed for patient convenience.

2018-05-17
FDA Approval of Aimovig™ (erenumaab-aooe)

In May 2018, Aimovig™ (erenumaab-aooe) received approval from the FDA for its medical usage.

2019-04-09
FDA Approval of EVENITY™ (romosozumab-aqqg)

EVENITY™ (romosozumab-aqqg) receives the green light from the FDA on April 9, 2019.

2019-11-21
Amgen completes acquisition of Otezla® (apremilast)

On November 21, 2019, Amgen successfully completed the acquisition of Otezla® (apremilast), expanding its product portfolio and market presence.

2020-01-02
Amgen collaboration with BeiGene in China

On January 2, 2020, Amgen announces a strategic collaboration with BeiGene to expand its oncology presence in China.

2020-08-24
Amgen Joins the Dow Jones Industrial Average

In August 2020, Amgen became a part of the prestigious Dow Jones Industrial Average, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth and success.

2020-12-10
Membership in OneTen Coalition

On December 10, 2020, Amgen joined OneTen, a coalition aiming to hire and advance one million black Americans over the next decade.

2020-12-31
Amgen Total CO2e Emissions Report

Amgen reported a total of 243 Kt of CO2e emissions for the twelve months ending December 31, 2020, with a decrease of 6 /-2.4% year-on-year. The company aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2027.

2021-03
Acquisition of Five Prime Therapeutics

In March 2021, Amgen announced the acquisition of Five Prime Therapeutics and its lead candidate bemarituzumab for $1.9 billion.

2021-05
FDA Accelerated Approval of Sotorasib for NSCLC Treatment

In May 2021, the FDA granted accelerated approval to sotorasib for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with a KRAS G12C mutation who had received prior systemic therapy. This marked the first approved targeted therapy for tumors with any KRAS mutation.

2021-06
Collaboration with Kyowa Kirin

In June 2021, Amgen and Kyowa Kirin announced joint plans to develop and commercialize a treatment for atopic dermatitis.

2021-07
Acquisition of Teneobio

In July 2021, Amgen acquired Teneobio for $900 million.

2021-10
Research Collaboration with Neumora Therapeutics

In October 2021, Amgen and Neumora Therapeutics announced a partnership focused on developing precision therapies for certain brain diseases.

2021-11
Construction of Biomanufacturing Plant

In November 2021, Amgen began constructing a new biomanufacturing plant in New Albany, Ohio.

2021-12
FDA Approval of Tezspire

In December 2021, the FDA approved Amgen and AstraZeneca's Tezspire for severe asthma.

2022-03-09
Amgen's Patent Thicket around Top-Selling Drug

Amgen established a patent thicket around its leading drug over a span of three decades, securing a monopoly in the market. This strategic move has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry.

2023-01-31
Amjevita Launch

The expected launch date for Amjevita is set for January 31, 2023.

2023-06-30
Hadlima Launch

Samsung Bioepis and Organon plan to launch Hadlima on June 30, 2023.

2023-07-01
Cyltezo Launch

Boehringer Ingelheim is scheduled to launch Cyltezo on July 1, 2023.

End of the Timeline
Amgen

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Amgen

American biopharmaceutical company
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