Healthcare companies play dominant roles in conducting and funding research and development (R&D). The pharmaceutical industry invests more than USD 50 billion a year in R&D – the most important source of investment in health research. During 2007, Novartis increased R&D investments by more than 20% to USD 6.4 billion. This is one of the highest figures in the industry relative to sales (16.9%).

Novartis R&D efforts are driven by human health and well-being, contributing to overall prosperity and quality of life. Working at the frontier of science and technology in the field of human health means our activities may involve ethical issues, including animal welfare, stem-cell research and access to medicines. Novartis recognizes the importance of informed debate about such issues and welcomes the opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue.

Learn more about our commitment to responsible R&D on our website Citizenship@Novartis

Risky business
On average, only one in 10 000 originally synthesized compounds will clear all regulatory hurdles and become a commercially available drug. The R&D process for bringing a new drug to market can take eight to ten years to complete and cost up to USD 1.7 billion.