Dr. Falk Pharma GmbH is a privately held German pharmaceutical company headquartered in Freiburg im Breisgau. Founded in 1960 by Dr. Herbert Falk, the company focuses on gastroenterology and hepatology, researching, developing, and commercializing therapies for diseases of the digestive tract and liver.
Its portfolio includes prescription products and targeted formulations for inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease), microscopic colitis, eosinophilic esophagitis, and cholestatic liver disorders such as primary biliary cholangitis. Core active ingredients include mesalazine and budesonide for intestinal inflammation and ursodeoxycholic acid for bile acid–related conditions. Dr. Falk Pharma serves markets across Europe and select international regions through subsidiaries and partnerships, and supports clinical research and medical education in its specialty areas.
Merck ends co-development with Falk, assumes full responsibility for MK-8690, pays $150M upfront, and records a pre-tax charge in Q4 results.
