Apothekernes Laboratorium

Apothekernes Laboratorium (AL) was a pioneering Norwegian pharmaceutical company founded in 1903, initially established to provide laboratory services and products for the nation's pharmacies. The company achieved global prominence through its large-scale production of antibiotics, specifically becoming a world leader in the manufacture of bacitracin via fermentation technology. In 1994, the company rebranded as Alpharma to better represent its international operations and diversified interests in human generics, animal health, and active pharmaceutical ingredients. Alpharma was acquired by King Pharmaceuticals in 2008 for $1.6 billion, which was subsequently acquired by Pfizer in 2010. The company's legacy in specialty antibiotics continues today through Xellia Pharmaceuticals, which originated from AL's active ingredient division.