Actelion income up 44 per cent in 2005

Actelion’s net income rose by almost half in 2005, according to full year results from the company.

The Swiss drug firm’s profits were boosted by positive sales growth in Tracleer, its pulmonary arterial hypertension treatment and main product. Sales grew by 41 per cent to CHF633.2 million. Sales of Zavesca accounted for CHF14.4 million of revenue.

Total revenue grew by 41 per cent to CHF663.5 million, pushing Actelion’s income up 44 per cent to CHF125.538 million (?54.75 million). Its CEO Jean-Paul Clozel predicted that the company would achieve revenues of CHF 1 billion by 2009.

He said: “We are well prepared for future growth, with Tracleer being the best documented oral PAH drug, supported by an experienced marketing and sales team as well as by many label expansion studies.”

Mr Clozel added: “With a rapidly expanding pipeline, operating profitability, cash generation from operations and an experienced staff of more than 1,000 worldwide, Actelion has achieved full strategic freedom to pursue multiple options to further accelerate growth.”

Traceller is now available within 36 countries worldwide, and is undergoing regulatory reviews in several of the new EU member states.

© Adfero Ltd