Novartis was created in 1996 through the merger of Ciba-Geigy and Sandoz, bringing together long-running Swiss pharmaceutical traditions. The company develops, manufactures, and markets innovative medicines for serious diseases, with a focus on areas such as oncology, immunology, neuroscience, cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic care. Novartis centers its business on prescription medicines and continues to invest in research and development to advance new therapies and improve patient access. The business has built a broad international presence and serves patients, healthcare professionals, and health systems through branded pharmaceutical products and related support programs.