Company called ISIS changing its name after business plummets

"It's been an ongoing discussion for most of this year," Chief Business Officer Sarah Boyce said.

"When you talk about the company you want people to immediately think about the incredible work you're doing to deliver transformational drugs to patients, not as an unfortunate namesake."

The drugmaker – named after the Egyptian goddess Isis, who was revered as a protector and healer - has been around for more than a quarter century.

It makes drugs for cancer patients, cholesterol reduction and heart conditions.

ISIS, also known as Daesh, is now subject to intense bombing in Syria and Iraq from powers including the UK, US, Russia and France.

(dailystar.co.uk)