Shire reports strong growth in first half of 2011

Shire has published its financial report for the first half of 2011, during which the company saw strong double-digit growth.

The firm's revenue total for the six months came to just over $2 billion (1.2 billion pounds), up by 22 percent year on year, while its diluted earnings per share figure rose by 26 percent.

Among the products that helped to drive this trend were its rare disease treatments and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) drugs, as well as the gastrointestinal therapy Lialda.

In addition, Shire was able to obtain positive regulatory decisions on Replagal and Firazyr, while completing the acquisition of Advanced BioHealing.

Shire chief executive officer Angus Russell said: "We anticipate that this will be another very good year for Shire as we deliver strong sales and continue our investment for sustained future growth."

In June 2011, the company announced the launch of the Shire Brave Awards, a programme that will offer prizes and support for hard-working care providers globally.