Sanofi-aventis to discontinue trials with rimonabant

Sanofi-aventis has announced that they are to discontinue all clinical trials with rimonabant.

The cancelling of the rimonabant clinical development program will be in all indications and has been taken in light of recent demands by certain national health authorities.

As a result of the decision, the company adds that the feasibility of the global clinical development program has been compromised.

Noting that the company will inform health care professionals from November 5th 2008, people already enrolled in the trials should consult their clinical investigator to discuss treatment.

The news follows the Sanofi-aventis’ Fawdon manufacturing site receiving a gold award for its comprehensive energy management programme, as part of the operating sites category in the 2008 Climate Change Awards earlier this year.

Speaking at the time, director of operations at Fawdon, Bob Dungworth, said of the company’s win: “We’ve ? reduced our carbon footprint by 2250 tons a year – that’s the same amount of CO2 that’s absorbed by 225,000 trees. The Gold Award is recognition of the priority Fawdon gives to both efficiency and green issues.”

The company is listed in New York and Paris.