Shire BioChem

Shire BioChem was a prominent Canadian biotechnology company and a subsidiary of Shire Pharmaceuticals, formed following the $4 billion acquisition of BioChem Pharma in 2001. The company is globally recognized for the discovery of lamivudine (3TC), a cornerstone antiretroviral therapy used in the treatment of HIV and chronic Hepatitis B. Based in Laval, Quebec, Shire BioChem initially focused on antiviral research and vaccine development, managing a significant portfolio of infectious disease products. Over time, Shire divested the vaccine business to focus on specialty pharmaceuticals and rare diseases. Following Takeda's acquisition of Shire in 2019, the legacy operations and assets of Shire BioChem have been fully integrated into Takeda's global organization.