Comprehensive Overview of Pfizer's Subsidiaries for Potential Investors

In the heart of Brooklyn, New York, Pfizer, Inc. was founded in 1849 by Charles Pfizer and Charles Erhart. Since then, the company has grown into a multi-faceted empire, with its roots deeply embedded in pharmaceuticals, consumer health, and animal health.

Pfizer's primary focus lies in the development of innovative medications. Its Innovative Health division targets six therapeutic areas, including Oncology and Internal Medicine, aiming to create breakthrough medications. Notable acquisitions like Hospira, Medivation, and Array BioPharma have strengthened Pfizer's position in these areas.

One of the most significant acquisitions was Medivation in 2016, which gave Pfizer access to Xtandi, a high-performing prostate cancer drug. The acquisition of Array BioPharma in 2019 further enhanced Pfizer's oncology offerings.

Pfizer's holdings extend beyond pharmaceuticals. Its consumer healthcare division includes well-known brands like Xeljanz, Ibrance, Prevnar 13, Centrum, and Advil. Over-the-counter brands such as Emergen-C and Nexium 24HR also fall under this division.

The animal health sector is represented by Zoetis, a world leader in animal health products. Zoetis was spun off from Pfizer in 2013, but Pfizer still maintains a stake in several biotech firms, including BioNTech SE (1.52%), CStone Pharmaceuticals (9.03%), and Oric Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (5.54%).

Pfizer's acquisitions have not only expanded its product portfolio but also its research capabilities. For instance, the acquisition of Wyeth Pharmaceuticals in 2009 brought blockbuster drugs like Prevnar 13 and Enbrel into Pfizer's portfolio. Prevnar 13 generates an annual revenue of $5.8 billion, while Enbrel (outside North America) generates $3.7 billion annually.

Pfizer's growth has been fueled by numerous acquisitions and mergers over the years. Notable acquisitions include Warner-Lambert (2000), Pharmacia (2003), Wyeth (2009), and King Pharmaceuticals (2010). However, Hospira, acquired in 2015, was later sold to ICU Medical in 2017.

Greenstone LLC, another Pfizer subsidiary, is known for producing generic alternatives to brand-name drugs. Pfizer's Essential Health division includes off-patent branded and generic medicines along with sterile injectable drugs.

Moreover, Pfizer's multi-faceted empire includes a range of well-established businesses beyond pharmaceuticals. For example, it introduced an antiparasitic called santonin in the 1800s and was among the first firms to manufacture citric acid using a fermentation process in 1880.

Pfizer's acquisition strategy is focused on acquiring companies with unique value propositions or specialized knowledge in key therapeutic areas. However, pharmaceutical mergers and acquisitions are not without risks. Market dominance, job losses, stifling innovation, and regulatory hurdles are potential risks associated with such ventures.

Regulatory hurdles can indeed slow down pharmaceutical mergers and acquisitions. For instance, in 2020, Pfizer's off-patent branded and generic established medicines business, Upjohn, merged with Mylan N.V. to form Viatris Inc. However, Pfizer still partially owns Viatris Inc.

In conclusion, Pfizer, Inc., founded in 1849, has grown into a global powerhouse in the pharmaceutical, consumer health, and animal health industries. Its strategic acquisitions and mergers have shaped its multi-faceted empire, positioning it at the forefront of innovation in the healthcare sector.