Sanofi-aventis highlights positive trends in 2010 report

Sanofi-aventis has expressed confidence in its 2011 business prospects based on the growth trends seen during the last year.

The pharmaceutical company experienced a 2.6 percent rise in its earnings per share figure compared to last year, while net sales reached a total of 30.38 billion euros (25.78 billion pounds) for the 12 months.

Treatments such as Jevtana and Multaq were among Sanofi-aventis' strongest performers in 2010, as were its diabetes offerings, while its vaccines business experienced a record-breaking year.

Meanwhile, its consumer healthcare and generics units also continued to thrive, driven by the positive impact of bolt-on acquisitions.

Sanofi-aventis also launched a takeover bid for Genzyme in October 2010, with talks over a potential merger still ongoing.

Christopher Viehbacher, the firm's chief executive officer, said the business performed well despite encountering growing competition from the generics sector.

He added that the annual results represent "a solid basis for the mid and long-term development of our company".