The company commenced its operations in 1988–89 with a single unit that manufactured semi-synthetic penicillin (SSP) at Pondicherry. The company became a public company in 1992 and listed its shares in the Indian stock exchanges in 1995. Today its marketing partners include AstraZeneca and Pfizer.

Its product portfolio is spread over seven therapeutic/product areas, including antibiotics, anti-retrovirals, cardiovascular, central nervous system, gastroenterologicals, anti-allergies and anti-diabetics. It is engaged in developing a range of oncology and hormonal products. It is also developing inhalation and dermatology products, such as pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI). It markets its products through chain stores in the United States. It has developed over three injectable penem products. The Company, through its subsidiary, manufactures and sells nutritional supplements also. It has over 10 manufacturing units and approximately two research and development centers.