Vaccine sales give Sanofi shot in the arm in first quarter
Sanofi is counting on growth drivers such as the versatile Dupixent, which awaits approval in nasal polyps and is undergoing tests for lung disease, to replace ageing diabetes medicine Lantus
London — Sanofi’s profit rose more than expected last quarter, powered by sales of vaccines and newcomer Dupixent, an eczema and asthma drug set to become a blockbuster. The stock had its biggest gain so far in 2019. Sanofi is counting on growth drivers such as the versatile Dupixent, which awaits approval in nasal polyps and is undergoing tests for lung disease, to replace ageing diabetes medicine Lantus. At the same time, research chief John Reed is hunting for opportunities in cancer after Sanofi missed out on the recent wave of revolutionary medicines focused on the immune system. Two acquisitions have delivered new experimental therapies for bleeding disorders. “We believe the pipeline offers intriguing optionality, overlooked by many,” Peter Welford, an analyst at Jefferies in London, wrote in a note to clients. “Stronger Dupixent is positive given its long-term importance.” Sanofi rose as much as 4% in Paris trading, its steepest gain since October, to €76.64. As it reviews i...
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