Boehringer Ingelheim ‘outpaces market for seventh year’

Boehringer Ingelheim has presented its financial results for 2006 at its annual press conference, reporting that the company has experienced growth exceeding that of the pharmaceutical market for the seventh successive year.

The company recorded an 11 per cent rise in net sales to 10.6 billion euros (7.2 billion pounds), while operating income also rose 11 per cent to reach 2.1 billion euros. It has forecast growth of net sales in the high single-digits for 2007, slightly outpacing that of the market as a whole.

Boehringer Ingelheim reports that its growth during 2006 was driven by its branded prescription medications, including a 45 per cent increase in sales of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treatment Spiriva (tiotropium bromide) and a 34 per cent rise in sales of essential hypertension drug Micardis (telmisartan).

Dr Alessandro Banchi, chairman of the board of managing directors of the firm, said: “We are very proud that our medications are accepted by patients and help them to treat their illnesses effectively and to lead a better life.”

He added that the company’s prospects for product launches and expanded indications for existing compounds were “encouraging”, with the company optimistic regarding ongoing clinical trials.

Last November, Boeheringer Ingelheim reported that its investment in research and development had resulted in a growing number of compounds currently in phase I and II clinical trials, including three cancer therapies currently in phase III.