Tehran Chemie: High-Quality Generic Drug Manufacturing From Iran To Global Market

Dr Ali Mehramizi, CEO, Tehran Chemie

The Iranian pharmaceutical industry has come a long way since the Iranian revolution, having one of the largest manufacturing capacities of generic medicines in the MENA region. The industry meets 97 percent of the domestic demand but is dependent on imports for APIs and specialized drugs. In addition, businesses must navigate fluctuating currency values, supply chain constraints, and evolving compliance requirements, all while maintaining global competitiveness. Established players are playing a critical role in addressing these challenges, with Tehran Chemie Pharmaceutical Company leading the way via integrated operations, advanced R&D, state-of-the-art facilities, and a deep understanding of regional market dynamics.

Tehran Chemie is one of the largest privately owned pharmaceutical company with 70 years of existence and service. It is a vertically integrated finished product manufacturing company with over 250 products, spanning major therapeutic segments such as antibiotics, neuropsychiatry, pain management, gastroenterology, cardiovascular, diabetes hypertension and dietary supplements. The company has strategically developed a portfolio that meets essential healthcare needs, ensuring accessibility to high-quality medicines. Its leadership in the diabetic, neuropsychiatry and gastroenterology segments is particularly noteworthy. “Azirocin (Azithromycin) and Naproxen have been our flagship products in antibiotics and pain management segments respectively, while Pentomid (Pantoprazole) remains a blockbuster in the gastroenterology range”, says Dr Ali Mehramizi, CEO, Tehran Chemie. The company’s products for neuropsychiatric and dermatological solutions further enhance its ability to serve diverse patient requirements.

Unlike firms that focus on specific dosage forms, Tehran Chemie covers a wide range, including solid orals, semi-solids, injectables, and liquid formulations

This flexibility enables the company to respond swiftly to market demands and demographic healthcare trends. Furthermore, its end-to-end business model encompassing active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) manufacturing, finished dosage formulation, and distribution provides a competitive advantage in terms of quality control, cost efficiency, and supply chain reliability. This level of integration enables the company to mitigate supply shortages and maintain consistent product availability in the market.

Commitment to Research & Development
Tehran Chemie has prioritized R&D for over 30 years, investing in state-of-the-art facilities and a highly skilled scientific team. With around 30 pharmaceutical and chemical scientists, the company develops approximately 20 new products annually, ensuring that its portfolio remains aligned with evolving medical needs. Its research framework follows a structured Quality by Design approach, emphasizing on robust pre-formulation & formulation studies, experimental design, and eventually stress testing to optimize product efficacy and stability. Equipped with advanced and research dedicated analytical instruments such as Malvern, Rheometer, HPLC and GC, the R&D division maintains rigorous quality standards, often exceeding industry benchmarks.

A key differentiator is the company’s ability to conduct bioequivalence studies in-house. Through its affiliated company, Tampoya, Tehran Chemie carries out comparative clinical studies to ensure its generic formulations match the efficacy of innovator drugs. This unique capability streamlines regulatory approvals and accelerates market entry while maintaining compliance with international standards.

Advanced Manufacturing & Quality Assurance
The company operates multiple manufacturing lines within its sprawling campus located within the city limits of Tehran, including solid oral, liquid syrup & suspension, and injectable lines. Its newest solid oral unit, designed with a clear focus on current GMP standards, enhances its production capacity for tablets, capsules, and powders for suspension. In addition, Tehran Chemie has general and specialized semi-solid production lines for general and hazardous formulations respectively, ensuring a controlled and compliant manufacturing environment.

The company maintains stringent quality control processes, adhering to internationally recognized ISO standards (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001) and Iranian GMP regulations accredited by the Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme (PICS). By continuously upgrading its facilities and processes, it ensures that its products meet the highest quality, safety and efficacy standards.

While Tehran Chemie has historically focused on serving the domestic market, it has steadily increased its international presence, currently exporting around five percent of its production. As the company strengthens its regulatory compliance and manufacturing capabilities, it is well-poised to expand into global markets, particularly in regions where access to cost-effective, high-quality generics remains a priority. Its fully integrated supply chain and expertise in developing complex formulations further enhances a strong foundation for international growth.

Tehran Chemie’s commitment to excellence has been recognized through various industry awards, including accolades for quality and best-in-class labor practices. The company has obtained multiple certifications validating its adherence to environmental, health, and safety standards, reinforcing its reputation as a responsible corporate entity. With a legacy of resilience, continuous innovation, and an integrated business model, Tehran Chemie Pharmaceutical can continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of Iran’s healthcare industry while expanding its impact on the global stage.


🍪 Do you like Cookies?

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Read more...