UPSA

UPSA (Union de Pharmacologie Scientifique Appliquée) is a French pharmaceutical company founded in 1935 by Dr. Camille Bru in Agen, France. The brand has a rich history of innovation in pharmaceutical development, particularly known for pioneering effervescent medication technology source.

What distinguishes UPSA is its groundbreaking contribution to pharmaceutical delivery systems. Dr. Bru discovered through X-ray imaging that carbonated drinks accelerate digestive tract movements, leading to the development of the first effervescent medication, Normogastryl®. This innovation established UPSA as a leader in effervescent pharmaceuticals, later expanded with the development of effervescent aspirin (1960) and effervescent paracetamol (1972) source.

The company has undergone several ownership changes while maintaining its French identity. Initially a family-owned business passed from Dr. Camille Bru to his son Jean Bru and later to Jean's wife Nicole Bru, it was acquired by Bristol-Myers Squibb in 1994. In 2019, UPSA was purchased by Taisho Pharmaceutical, Japan's largest OTC drug company source.

Today, UPSA is a certified B Corporation that operates one of France's largest pharmaceutical manufacturing sites in Agen. The company employs over 1,600 people in France and generates approximately 3,500 indirect jobs. Its expertise covers six therapeutic areas: pain and fever (its historical specialty), cough & cold/respiratory issues, digestion, sleep disorders, vitality, and women's health. UPSA exports more than 55% of its production to over 60 countries worldwide source.

UPSA remains committed to "Made in France" excellence while expanding its global presence, particularly in Europe, French-speaking Africa, China, and Vietnam.