Takeda completes Multilab acquisition

Takeda's Brazilian subsidiary has completed its takeover of pharmaceutical firm Multilab.

According to the Japanese organisation, the acquisition will establish it as one of Brazil's top ten pharmaceutical companies.

Giles Platford, president of Takeda Brazil, said the takeover "better positions Takeda to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the Brazilian population, in particular the emerging middle-class consumer".

He added that acquiring Multilab will allow Takeda to take advantage of a "strong distribution network" combined with a "portfolio of accessible quality medications".

The South American company posted net revenues of 140 million real (44.5 million pounds) in 2011. Its product range includes Multigrip, which is currently the top-selling over-the-counter cold and flu remedy in Brazil.

Takeda also recently announced the completed acquisition of US firm URL Pharma, manufacturer of leading gout treatment Colcrys (colchicine).

It said the takeover will have an immediate impact on company revenues as Colcrys is integrated into its treatment portfolio.