Yamanouchi

Yamanouchi Pharmaceutical was a leading Japanese pharmaceutical company founded in 1923 and headquartered in Tokyo. The company specialized in the research, development, and commercialization of small molecule drugs, achieving significant global success in the urology, gastroenterology, and cardiovascular therapeutic areas. Its portfolio featured blockbuster treatments such as the H2-receptor antagonist Gaster (famotidine) and the alpha-blocker Harnal (tamsulosin). In April 2005, Yamanouchi merged with Fujisawa Pharmaceutical to form Astellas Pharma, which became one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in Japan and a major player in the global market. The merger was designed to combine Yamanouchi's strong sales and marketing capabilities with Fujisawa's research-driven pipeline. Today, the company's legacy persists through the continued commercial success of its developed therapies under the Astellas brand.