Alcon, Inc. (Alcon) is a research and development driven, global medical specialty company focused on eye care. The Company develops, manufactures and markets pharmaceuticals, surgical equipment and devices and consumer eye care products to treat diseases and disorders of the eye. Alcon manages its business through two segments: Alcon United States and Alcon International. Its portfolio spans three key ophthalmic categories: pharmaceutical, surgical and consumer eye care products. In its pharmaceutical category Alcon develops, manufactures and markets a range of prescription ophthalmic pharmaceutical products. Alcon offers a range of surgical equipment, single-use and disposable products. The Company markets contact lens care products, artificial tears and ocular vitamins, in its consumer eye care products category. In July 2008, Novartis AG acquired a 25% stake in Alcon from Nestle SA.