Biotech 1930-1984

Early biotech (1930-1984) 

In 1925, insulin production transferred to the independent Nordisk Insulin Foundation and LEO Pharma drug development increased its focus on hormone products.

The knowledge gained put LEO Pharma in a good position to produce innovative drugs for the next half-century.

Kongsted, the founder of LEO Pharma and key contributor to the Danish medical industry, died in 1939. At the onset of WWII, with Europe in turmoil, Kongsted’s son-in-law, Dr Knud Abildgaard took over the company helm.

Near the end of the war, LEO Pharma became the first company outside the UK and the US to produce penicillin.

In 1945, LEO Pharma employed more than 200 people. The LEO price list contained approximately 230 branded products. 

Post-war, LEO Pharma launched a succession of innovative drugs to improve the lives of people worldwide with atopic dermatitis, impetigo and kidney complaints. From 1949 to 1959, LEO Pharma moved all production to its current headquarters in Ballerup, Denmark, and began exporting pharmaceutical products. A year later, LEO Pharma UK was established.

During the course of the following 25 years, nine affiliate offices were established and a number of pharmaceutical drugs were launched – many of which are still on the market today.