Diffusion Pharmaceuticals’ TSC Phase 1/2 Glioblastoma Multiforme Clinical Trial Results Published in February 2017 Edition of Journal of Neurosurgery

On February 8, 2017 Feb. 08, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diffusion Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:DFFN), a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on the development of novel small molecule therapeutics for cancer and other hypoxia-related diseases, reported that the data from the Phase 1/2 clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of trans sodium crocetinate (TSC) in newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) has been published in the print edition of the peer-reviewed Journal of Neurosurgery ("JNS") (Volume 126, February 2017) (Press release, Diffusion Pharmaceuticals, FEB 8, 2017, View Source [SID1234517657]). Results from the Phase 1/2 clinical trial in 59 patients showed that 36.3% of the full TSC dose patients were alive at two years, compared to historical two-year survival rates ranging from 27% to 30%. TSC, the Company’s lead product candidate, is designed to target the tumor’s reduced oxygen microenvironment. TSC re-oxygenates cancerous tissue, thus making the cancer cells more susceptible to current radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

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"The publication of the article in the JNS provides peer-reviewed validation and raises the visibility of Diffusion across key stakeholder audiences," stated David Kalergis, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "The very encouraging data from our Phase 1/2 clinical trial supports our strategy to advance into Phase 3 clinical development."

The article, entitled, "Trans sodium crocetinate with temozolomide and radiation therapy for glioblastoma multiforme," outlines the results of a Phase 1/2 trial designed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of adding TSC to radiation therapy in 59 newly diagnosed GBM patients. In this trial, all patients received radiation with the drug temozolomide beginning either after surgery or biopsy of the tumor. TSC was administered around 45 minutes before each radiation session three days per week during the 6 weeks of radiation therapy. Considerable tumor shrinkage was seen in many patients, with tumors in 11 patients disappearing completely.

JNS is the official peer-reviewed publication of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Diffusion’s data was previously published in the online edition of JNS in May 2016 and was originally released in July 2015.

About Treatment-Resistant Cancers and TSC
Oxygen deprivation at the cellular level ("hypoxia") is the result of rapid tumor growth, causing the tumor to outgrow its blood supply. Cancerous tumor cells thrive with hypoxia and the resultant changes in the tumor microenvironment cause "treatment-resistance" to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Using a novel, proprietary mechanism of action, Diffusion’s lead drug TSC counteracts tumor hypoxia – and therefore treatment-resistance – by safely re-oxygenating tumor tissue, thus enhancing tumor kill and potentially prolonging patients’ life expectancy. Oxygen levels of normal tissue remain unaffected upon administration of TSC, thereby avoiding the introduction of harmful side effects.

Sanofi Delivers 2016 Sales and Business EPS(1) Growth at CER(2)

On February 8, 2017 Sanofi reported financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 (Press release, Sanofi, FEB 8, 2017, View Source [SID1234517666]).

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All Global Business Units delivered positive sales performance in the fourth quarter of 2016
Net sales were €8,867 million, up 3.3% on a reported basis (up 3.4% at CER).
Sanofi Genzyme (Specialty Care) GBU increased 12.6% driven by multiple sclerosis products.
Sanofi Pasteur GBU grew 3.7% due to strong pediatric combination franchise sales.
Diabetes and Cardiovascular GBU sales were up 3.8%. Global diabetes franchise sales increased 1.9%.

2016 sales supported by Specialty care and Vaccines
Net sales in 2016 were €33,821 million, down 0.7% on a reported basis and up 1.2% at CER.
Sanofi Genzyme GBU sales reached €5,019 million, up 17.3% while Sanofi Pasteur sales grew 8.8% to €4,577 million.
Emerging Markets(4) sales increased 2.4% to €9,593 million (up 7.0% excluding Venezuela).
Solid financial results in 2016 despite launch investments, supported by cost savings
2016 Business EPS(1) of €5.68 (+4.1% at CER) and IFRS EPS of €3.66 (+11.6% on a reported basis).
Q4 2016 Business EPS was €1.25, down -1.5% at CER impacted by an unfavorable tax rate comparison.
Q4 2016 Business operating income grew 3.7% at CER
Board proposes dividend of €2.96, the 23rd consecutive annual increase.

Sanofi progresses on its strategic priorities
Closing of the Boehringer Ingelheim (BI) business swap elevates Sanofi into a global leadership position in CHC.
Sanofi Pasteur and MSD end joint vaccines business to pursue their European vaccine strategies independently.
Soliqua 100/33 launched in the U.S. and Suliqua approved in EU for type-2 diabetic patients.

Kevzara (sarilumab) in rheumatoid arthritis approved in Canada and U.S. resubmission planned in Q1 2017.
5 NMEs started registrational studies in 2016: isatuximab, PD-1, sotagliflozin, olipudase alfa and NeoGAA.

2017 financial guidance
Sanofi expects 2017 Business EPS(1) to be stable to -3%(5) at constant exchange rates, barring unforeseen major adverse events, consistent with its previously announced Strategic Roadmap guidance for the 2016-17 period. Applying the average December 2016 exchange rates, the currency impact on 2017 Business EPS is estimated to be +3% to +4%.

Sanofi Chief Executive Officer, Olivier Brandicourt, commented:
"2016 was a busy year for Sanofi as we progressed on our 2020 strategic roadmap. We successfully closed the Boehringer Ingelheim asset swap, lifting us into a leadership position in Consumer Healthcare. Our streamlined organization started to deliver and supported a stronger financial performance than initially anticipated. At the same time, we completed the filing of our breakthrough innovation Dupixent for the first indication, atopic dermatitis, in the U.S and Europe. Separately, we recently advanced five new molecules into registrational studies."

(1) In order to facilitate an understanding of operational performance, Sanofi comments on the business net income statement. Business net income is a non-GAAP financial measure (see Appendix 11 for definitions). The consolidated income statement for Q4 2016 and 2016 is provided in Appendix 4 and a reconciliation of business net income to IFRS net income reported is set forth in Appendix 3; (2) changes in net sales are expressed at constant exchange rates (CER) unless otherwise indicated (see Appendix 11); (3) Merial information is provided in appendix 5; (4) See page 8; (5) 2016 Business EPS was €5.68.

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2016 fourth-quarter and full-year Sanofi sales

Unless otherwise indicated, all percentage changes in sales in this press release are stated at CER(6).
In the fourth quarter of 2016, Company sales were €8,867 million, up 3.3% on a reported basis. Exchange rate movements had a negative effect of 0.1 percentage points. At CER, Company sales increased 3.4%.

In 2016, Company sales were €33,821 million, down 0.7% on a reported basis. Exchange rate movements had an unfavorable effect of 1.9 percentage points reflecting mainly the adverse evolution of the Argentine Peso, Chinese Yuan, Mexican Peso and British Pound, which more than offset the positive effects from the Japanese Yen. At CER, Company sales increased 1.2%.

2016 performance included a negative currency impact related to the change of exchange rate applied for the translation of Venezuela operations, resulting from the evolution of the exchange system in February 2016 as well as from the persistent inability to exchange Venezuelan bolivars for U.S. dollars at the privileged official rate. In addition, in the first half of 2015, Sanofi benefited from a significant increase in product demand in Venezuela, due to buying patterns associated with local market conditions. As a consequence, sales in Venezuela were €18 million in 2016 compared to €455 million in 2015. Excluding Venezuela, Company sales increased 3.7% and 2.6% in the fourth quarter and in 2016, respectively.

Global Business Units
The table below presents sales by Global Business Units (GBU) and reflects the organization of Sanofi which became effective as of January 1, 2016. This structure drives deeper specialization, simplifies reporting and provides clear focus on growth drivers. Please note that in Emerging Markets, Specialty Care and Diabetes and Cardiovascular sales are included in the General Medicines and Emerging Markets GBU.

Net Sales by GBU
(€ million)
Q4 2016
Change
(CER)
2016
Change
(CER)

Sanofi Genzyme (Specialty Care)(a)
1,335
+12.6%
5,019
+17.3%

Diabetes and Cardiovascular(a)
1,710
+3.8%
6,397
-2.0%

General Medicines & Emerging Markets(b)
3,636
+0.4%
14,498
-3.3%(c)

Consumer Healthcare
834
+2.7%
3,330
-1.6%(d)

Total Pharmaceuticals
7,515
+3.4%
29,244
+0.2%

Sanofi Pasteur (Vaccines)
1,352
+3.7%
4,577
+8.8%(e)

Total Company sales
8,867
+3.4%
33,821
+1.2%(f)

(a) Does not include Emerging Markets sales- see definition page 8; (b) Includes Emerging Markets sales for Diabetes & Cardiovascular and Specialty Care; (c) Excluding Venezuela: -1.2%; (d) Excluding Venezuela: +1.4%; (e) Excluding Venezuela: +9.0%; (f) Excluding Venezuela: +2.6%

Global Franchises
The tables below present fourth quarter and full year 2016 sales by global franchise, including Emerging Markets, to facilitate comparisons. Appendix 1 provides a reconciliation of sales by GBU and franchise.

Net sales by Franchise
(€ million)
Q4 2016
Change
(CER)

Developed
Markets
Change
(CER)

Emerging
Markets
Change
(CER)

Specialty Care
1,569
+12.9%
1,335
+12.6%
234
+14.3%

Diabetes and Cardiovascular
2,076
+3.9%
1,710
+3.8%
366
+4.1%

Established Products
2,568
-1.3%
1,622
-2.6%
946
+0.9%

Consumer Healthcare (CHC)
834
+2.7%
508
+7.0%
326
-3.2%

Generics
468
+0.2%
259
-3.3%
209
+5.1%

Vaccines
1,352
+3.7%
831
+1.4%
521
+7.3%

Total net sales
8,867
+3.4%
6,265
+3.4%
2,602
+3.5%

(6) See Appendix 11 for definitions of financial indicators.

Net sales by Franchise
(€ million)
2016
Change
(CER)

Developed
Markets
Change
(CER)

Emerging
Markets
Change
(CER)

Specialty Care
5,950
+17.2%(a)
5,019
+17.3%
931
+16.7%(b)

Diabetes and Cardiovascular
7,799
-0.4%(c)
6,397
-2.0%
1,402
+7.2%(d)

Established Products
10,311
-6.8%(e)
6,552
-9.5%
3,759
-2.0%(f)

Consumer Healthcare (CHC)
3,330
-1.6%(g)
2,092
+2.9%
1,238
-7.9%(h)

Generics
1,854
+0.7%(i)
1,069
-0.2%
785
+1.8%(j)

Vaccines
4,577
+8.8%(k)
3,099
+7.0%
1,478
+12.4%(l)

Total net sales
33,821
+1.2%(m)
24,228
+0.8%
9,593
+2.4%(n)

(a) Excluding Venezuela : +17.6%; (b) Excluding Venezuela : +18.8%; (c) Excluding Venezuela : +0.2%; (d) Excluding Venezuela :+10.8%; (e) Excluding Venezuela : -4.9%; (f) Excluding Venezuela: +3.8%; (g) Excluding Venezuela: +1.4%; (h) Excluding Venezuela: -0.9%; (i) Excluding Venezuela: +2.5%; (j) Excluding Venezuela: +6.1%;

(k) Excluding Venezuela: +9.0%; (l) Excluding Venezuela: +13.2%; (m) Excluding Venezuela: +2.6%; (n) Excluding Venezuela: +7.0%.
Pharmaceuticals

Fourth-quarter Pharmaceuticals sales increased 3.4% to €7,515 million driven by Multiple Sclerosis, Rare Disease and Cardiovascular franchises. In 2016, Pharmaceuticals sales were up 0.2% to €29,244 million. Excluding Venezuela, 2016 sales Pharmaceuticals increased 1.6%.

Rare Disease franchise
Net sales (€ million)
Q4 2016
Change
(CER)
2016
Change
(CER)
Myozyme / Lumizyme
192
+15.6%
725
+13.5%
Cerezyme
184
+7.8%
748
+5.3%
Fabrazyme
182
+13.9%
674
+14.7%
Aldurazyme
50
+8.2%
201
+7.7%
Cerdelga
29
+27.3%
106
+59.1%
Total Rare Diseases
716
+9.7%
2,777
+11.7%

In the fourth quarter, Rare Disease sales increased 9.7% to €716 million driven by the accrual of patients worldwide and strong performance of the franchise in Emerging Markets. In 2016, Rare Disease sales were up 11.7% to €2,777 million.

In the fourth quarter, Gaucher (Cerezyme and Cerdelga) sales increased 9.9% to €213 million, driven by Cerezyme growth in Emerging Markets (up 34.7% to €57 million) and the increasing contribution of Cerdelga (€29 million, up 27.3%). In 2016, Gaucher sales increased 9.6% to €854 million.

Sales of Fabrazyme were up 13.9% to €182 million in the fourth quarter, due to a continued accrual of new patients. In 2016, sales of Fabrazyme were up 14.7% to €674 million.

Fourth-quarter Myozyme/Lumizyme sales increased 15.6% to €192 million, mainly due to new patient accruals and increased worldwide diagnosis. In 2016, sales of Myozyme/Lumizyme increased 13.5% to €725 million.
Multiple Sclerosis franchise

Net sales (€ million)
Q4 2016
Change
(CER)
2016
Change
(CER)
Aubagio
367
+34.2%
1,295
+49.7%
Lemtrada
117
+46.9%
425
+79.0%
Total Multiple Sclerosis
484
+37.1%
1,720
+56.1%

Fourth-quarter Multiple Sclerosis (MS) sales increased 37.1% to €484 million, reflecting strong Aubagio and Lemtrada performance in the U.S. and Europe as well as the increasing sales contribution from Emerging Markets and the Rest of the World. In 2016, MS sales were up 56.1% to €1,720 million.

In the fourth quarter, Aubagio sales increased 34.2% to €367 million driven by the U.S. (up 34.5% to €265 million) and Europe (up 31.7% to €79 million). Aubagio is currently the fastest growing oral disease modifying therapy in the Multiple Sclerosis market with prescription share of 8.8% in the U.S. (IMS NPA TRX –Q4 2016). In 2016, Aubagio sales were up 49.7% to €1,295 million.

Fourth-quarter Lemtrada sales increased 46.9% to €117 million, including €67 million in the U.S. (up 50.0%) and €39 million in Europe (up 41.4%). In 2016, Lemtrada sales were up 79.0% to €425 million.

Oncology franchise
Net sales (€ million)
Q4 2016
Change
(CER)
2016
Change
(CER)
Jevtana
92
+8.3%
358
+11.5%
Thymoglobulin
77
+10.1%
281
+10.9%
Taxotere
42
-12.2%
179
-17.1%
Eloxatin
41
-27.6%
170
-21.6%
Mozobil
41
+5.3%
152
+7.0%
Zaltrap
15
-16.7%
65
-14.3%
Total Oncology
369
-3.9%
1,453
-2.2%

Fourth-quarter Oncology sales decreased 3.9% to €369 million. Growth of Jevtana, Thymoglobulin and Mozobil was offset by lower Taxotere and Eloxatin sales. In 2016, Oncology sales were €1,453 million, down 2.2%.
Jevtana sales were up 8.3% to €92 million in the fourth quarter led by Europe (up 12.5% to €35 million) and Japan. Full-year Jevtana sales were up 11.5% to €358 million.

In the fourth quarter, Thymoglobulin sales were up 10.1% to €77 million supported by the performance in the U.S.
(up 16.2% to €43 million). In 2016, Thymoglobulin sales were up 10.9% to €281 million.

Fourth-quarter Eloxatin sales were down 27.6% to €41 million reflecting generic competition in Canada. Over the same period, Taxotere sales decreased 12.2% (to €42 million) due to continuous generic competition in Japan. In 2016, Taxotere and Eloxatin sales were down 17.1% (€179 million) and 21.6% (€170 million), respectively.

Diabetes franchise
Net sales (€ million)
Q4 2016
Change
(CER)
2016
Change
(CER)
Lantus
1,463
-5.1%
5,714
-9.4%
Toujeo
238
138.8%
649
ns
Total glargine
1,701
+3.5%
6,363
-1.8%
Apidra
95
-9.6%
367
-1.1%
Amaryl
89
-1.1%
362
-3.8%
Insuman
31
-13.2%
129
-3.5%
BGM (Blood Glucose Monitoring)
16

66
+4.8%
Lyxumia
7
-36.4%
33
-13.2%
Total Diabetes
1,945
+1.9%
7,341
-1.8%(a)
(a) Excluding Venezuela: -1.2%;

In the fourth quarter, Diabetes sales increased 1.9% to €1,945 million, including lower Lantus sales in the U.S. Fourth-quarter U.S. Diabetes sales were up 5.5% to €1,131 million. Sales in Emerging Markets increased 4.1% to €365 million. Sales in Europe were €318 million, a decrease of 5.6%. In 2016, Diabetes sales were €7,341 million, down 1.8%.

Fourth-quarter sales of Sanofi glargine (Lantus and Toujeo) increased 3.5% to €1,701 million. In the U.S., Sanofi glargine sales of €1,100 million were up 7.0%. In Europe, Sanofi glargine sales decreased 5.4% to €240 million due to biosimilar competition in several European markets. In 2016, Sanofi glargine sales were €6,363 million, down 1.8%.
Over the quarter, Lantus sales were €1,463 million down 5.1%. In the U.S., Lantus sales decreased 1.8% to €931 million mainly reflecting lower average net price and patients switching to Toujeo. In Europe, fourth-quarter Lantus sales were €199 million (down 17.4%) due to biosimilar competition and patients switching to Toujeo. In Emerging Markets, sales were stable at €243 million impacted by lower sales in Russia. In 2016, Lantus sales were €5,714 million, down 9.4%.

Fourth-quarter Toujeo sales were €238 million of which €169 million were recorded in the U.S. and €41million in Europe. The global roll-out of this product continues and Toujeo is available in 45 countries. In Japan, the two-week prescription limit was lifted in September 2016, resulting in a significant increase in market share (10.8% in December 2016- based on IMS basal insulin share market in value). Full-year Toujeo sales were €649 million (versus €164 million in 2015).

Amaryl sales were €89 million, down 1.1% in the fourth quarter, of which €73 million were generated in Emerging Markets (up 4.1%). In 2016, Amaryl sales were €362 million, down 3.8%.
Fourth-quarter Apidra sales decreased 9.6% to €95 million, reflecting lower sales in the U.S. (down 31.0% to €29 million) and Europe (down 6.1% to €32 million), which offset the performance in Emerging Markets (up 33.3% to €22 million). In 2016, Apidra sales decreased 1.1% to €367 million.

Since January 2017, Soliqua 100/33 (insulin glargine 100 Units/mL & lixisenatide 33 mcg/mL injection; lixisenatide was in-licensed from Zealand Pharma) has been available in the U.S. Soliqua 100/33 is indicated for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on basal insulin (less than 60 Units daily) or lixisenatide. Sanofi is offering Soliqua 100/33 at a $0 co-pay (see press release from January 4, 2017) for eligible U.S. patients with commercial insurance and is working to secure market access from payers. Sanofi is also offering a tailored support program, Soliqua 100/33 COACH, at no cost to patients who have been prescribed the product.

Cardiovascular franchise
Praluent (alirocumab, collaboration with Regeneron) was launched in the U.S., in a number of European markets and Japan in 2015 and 2016. Fourth-quarter Praluent sales were €37 million of which €30 million were in the U.S. and €6 million in Europe. Full-year Praluent sales were €105 million reflecting significant payer utilization management restrictions in the U.S. and limited market access in Europe.

In January 2017, the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware issued an injunction that requires Sanofi and Regeneron to stop marketing, selling and manufacturing Praluent in the U.S. starting from February 21, 2017. Until that date, Praluent remains available in the U.S. Sanofi and Regeneron filed a motion with the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit to stay (suspend) the injunction pending the appeal of the judgment upholding the validity of Amgen’s patents for antibodies targeting PCSK9 as well as the injunction ruling.

Fourth-quarter and 2016 Multaq sales were €94 million (up 10.6%) and €353 million (up 3.8%), respectively.
Established Rx Products

Net sales (€ million)
Q4 2016
Change
(CER)
2016
Change
(CER)
Lovenox
414
+0.7%
1,636
-1.7%(a)
Plavix
363
-20.0%
1,544
-18.8%(b)
Renvela/Renagel
235
-2.5%
922
-1.1%
Aprovel/Avapro
163
-1.8%
681
-7.0%(c)
Synvisc /Synvisc-One
111
-4.3%
408
-0.2%(d)
Myslee/Ambien/Stilnox
79
-11.8%
304
-2.9%(e)
Allegra
41
-18.2%
186
-11.9%
Other
1,162
+7.9%
4,630
-5.6%(f)
Total Established Rx Products
2,568
-1.3%
10,311
-6.8%(g)
(a) Excluding Venezuela: -1.1%; (b) Excluding Venezuela: -17.1%; (c) Excluding Venezuela: -0.7%; (d) Excluding Venezuela: +0.5%; (e) Excluding Venezuela: -2.3%;
(f) Excluding Venezuela: -3.2%; (g) Excluding Venezuela: -4.9%;
In the fourth quarter, Established Rx Products sales decreased 1.3% to €2,568 million, reflecting generic competition to Plavix in Japan, and the low basis for comparison from the recall of Auvi-Q in the fourth quarter of 2015. In Emerging Markets, Established Rx Products sales increased 0.9% to €946 million driven by the performance of Lovenox. In the U.S., Established Rx Products sales increased 22.4% (to €371 million) mainly due to the low basis for comparison from the recall Auvi-Q in the prior period. In Europe, Established Rx Products sales decreased 3.3% to €911 million. Full-year Established Rx Products sales decreased 6.8% to €10,311 million and 4.9% excluding Venezuela.
Lovenox sales increased 0.7% to €414 million in the fourth quarter, driven by strong performance in Emerging Markets (up 12.2% to €124 million), which offset the impact of generic competition in the U.S. (down 27.8% to €13 million) and lower sales in Europe (down 1.5% to €255 million). In September, two enoxaparin biosimilars were approved in the European Union. In 2016, Lovenox sales were €1,636 million, down 1.7%.
In the fourth quarter, Plavix sales were down 20.0% to €363 million due to generic competition in Japan that started in June 2015 (sales in Japan were down 49.3% to €82 million). In 2016, Plavix sales decreased 18.8% to €1,544 million.
Fourth-quarter Renvela/Renagel sales decreased 2.5% to €235 million. In the U.S. where Sanofi expects generic competition in the first half of 2017, fourth-quarter sales were down 0.5% to €194 million. In Europe, Renvela/Renagel sales were down 24.0% to €19 million due to generic competition. Full-year Renvela/Renagel sales were down 1.1% to €922 million.
Aprovel/Avapro sales were down 1.8% (to €163 million) and down 7.0% (to €681 million) in the fourth quarter and the full year, respectively.
In the fourth quarter of 2015, Sanofi recalled Auvi-Q/Allerject in the U.S. and Canada. The negative impact of this recall on sales was -€122 million, which corresponded mainly to the reversal of sales of the product since the beginning of 2015. Sanofi no longer commercializes this product and no sales were recorded in 2016.
Consumer Healthcare
Net sales (€ million)
Q4 2016
Change
(CER)
2016
Change
(CER)
Allegra
86
+12.0%
417
-0.2%
Doliprane
86
+3.6%
309
+2.6%
Essentiale
45
-18.2%
145
-20.9%
Enterogermina
36
+2.9%
159
+2.5%
Maalox
22

85
-8.2%
Dorflex
20

75
-2.5%
No Spa
20
-9.1%
82

Lactacyd
19
-5.0%
80
-25.4%
Magne B6
18
-5.0%
73
-6.1%
Nasacort
17
-19.0%
108
-10.7%
Other CHC Products
465
+6.2%
1,797
+1.7%
Total Consumer Healthcare
834
+2.7%
3,330
-1.6%(a)
(a) Excluding Venezuela: +1.4%;
In the fourth quarter, Consumer Healthcare (CHC) sales increased 2.7% to €834 million driven by the performance in Europe, reflecting an early cough and cold season, partially offset by lower sales in Russia. Excluding the divestiture of several small products, sales of CHC were up 3.2% in the fourth quarter.
Fourth-quarter CHC sales in the U.S. increased 4.6% to €209 million despite increased competitive environment in the allergy category. In Emerging Markets, sales decreased 3.2% to €326 million reflecting lower sales in Russia due to the challenging local economic situation. In the quarter, sales in Europe were up 9.5% to €229 million due an early start of cough and cold season, mainly in France, despite the divesture of small products. Adjusting for these divestitures, CHC sales in Europe were up 11.1% in the fourth quarter. Full-year CHC sales reached €3,330 million, down 1.6% (up 2.7% excluding Venezuela and the divestiture of several small products).
Sanofi and Boehringer Ingelheim recently announced that the exchange of Sanofi’s animal health business (Merial) and Boehringer Ingelheim’s consumer healthcare (CHC) business was successfully closed in most markets on January 1st 2017. The closing of the disposal of Merial in Mexico and the swap of Merial and CHC in India have been delayed pending receipt of certain regulatory approvals. The transactions in both countries are expected to close early 2017.
Generics
In the fourth quarter, Generics sales increased 0.2% to €468 million driven by Emerging Markets (up 5.1% to €209 million) and Japan, which more than offset for the U.S. (down 6.8% to €43 million) and Europe (down 6.6% to €192 million). In 2016, Generics sales were up 0.7% to €1,854 million (up 2.5% excluding Venezuela).
As announced in our 2020 strategic roadmap, Sanofi has carefully reviewed all options for our Generics business in Europe and recently made the definitive decision to initiate a carve-out process expected to be completed by the end of 2018. Importantly, Sanofi confirms its commitment to Generics in other parts of the world with a greater focus on the Emerging Markets.
Vaccines
Net sales (€ million)
Q4 2016
Change
(CER)
2016
Change
(CER)
Polio/Pertussis/Hib vaccines
(incl. Pentacel, Pentaxim and Imovax)
544
+16.5%
1,495
+12.7%
Influenza vaccines
(incl. Vaxigrip and Fluzone)
416
-5.3%
1,521
+16.6%
Adult Booster vaccines (incl. Adacel )
129
-15.3%
417
-15.5%
Meningitis/Pneumonia vaccines
(incl. Menactra)
118
+3.6%
633
+4.1%
Travel and other endemic vaccines
107
+4.0%
368
-0.8%
Dengvaxia
5

55

Other vaccines
33
+21.4%
88
-17.0%
Total Vaccines (consolidated sales)
1,352
+3.7%
4,577
+8.8%*(a)
*Comparability based on the new presentation of VaxServe sales (see below)
(a) Excluding Venezuela: +9.0%;
Fourth quarter consolidated Vaccines sales were up 3.7% to €1,352 million mainly driven by the Polio/Pertussis/Hib (PPH) franchise both in the U.S. (total US sales up 7.8% to €704 million) and in Emerging Markets (total Emerging Markets sales up 7.3% to €521 million) despite early flu shipments in the U.S. in the third quarter. In Europe, vaccines sales were down 46.3% to €44 million mainly reflecting both (i) supply issues with Repevax and (ii) sales from Sanofi to Sanofi Pasteur MSD deferred to 2017 in connection with the buy-back of inventory as part of the termination of Sanofi Pasteur MSD joint-venture. In 2016, sales of Sanofi Pasteur increased 8.8% to €4,577 million mainly driven by the PPH franchise, the benefits from our flu differentiation strategy and, to a lesser extent, the dengue launch.
In the fourth quarter, Polio/Pertussis/Hib vaccines sales increased 16.5% to €544 million reflecting supply improvements of Pentacel in the U.S. (€119 million versus €53 million in the fourth quarter of 2015). Customer allocations for Pentacel were removed in December 2016 and both private and public channels have now full access to Pentacel to meet their needs. In Emerging Markets, PPH sales increased 5.1% to €304 million driven by the growth of Hexaxim, partially offset by the impact of local market disruption in China. Full-year PPH sales were up 12.7% to €1,495 million.
Fourth-quarter Influenza vaccines sales were down 5.3% to €416 million due to early shipments in the U.S. in the third quarter. Sales of Influenza vaccines were down 14.0% to €280 million in the U.S. in the fourth quarter. In 2016, Influenza vaccines sales increased 16.6% to €1,521 million, reflecting Sanofi Pasteur’s strategy to offer a portfolio of differentiated influenza vaccines. 2016 was a new record year for the Influenza franchise of Sanofi Pasteur.
Adult Booster vaccines sales decreased 15.3% to €129 million in the fourth quarter, as a result of lower sales in Europe due to a Repevax supply disruption. In the U.S. adult Booster vaccines sales were down 2.0% to €100 million. Full-year sales of Adult Booster vaccines decreased 15.5% to €417 million mainly driven by supply issues with Repevax and increased competitive pressure towards Adacel in the US.
Dengvaxia, the world’s first dengue vaccine, is now approved in 14 countries (Bolivia, Brazil, Cambodia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Indonesia, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Thailand, Singapore Venezuela and the Philippines). As expected, sales of Dengvaxia were limited (€5 million) in the fourth quarter as no new immunization programs were implemented. These sales were generated in the private market and by the public vaccination program launched in Paraná State in Brazil in the third quarter. In 2016, Dengvaxia sales were €55 million.
Fourth-quarter Menactra sales were up 1.0% to €107 million, €93 million of which was generated in the U.S (up 7.1%) reflecting the market leadership of Menactra. In 2016, sales of Menactra increased 4.8% to €586 million.
Fourth-quarter and full-year 2016 Travel and other endemic vaccines sales were €107 million (up 4.0%) and €368 million (down 0.8%), respectively.
In the fourth quarter, Sanofi Pasteur MSD, the joint venture with Merck & Co. in Europe, sales (not consolidated) increased 25.5% (on a reported basis) to €301 million. Excluding the 2016 year-end inventories repurchase to both parent companies, sales were flat, the growth of Hexyon (pediatric hexavalent vaccine) and travel vaccines sales being largely offset by lower Influenza and boosters vaccines sales. In 2016, sales of Sanofi Pasteur MSD were up 14.1% (on a reported basis) to €940 million (including the disposal of 2016 year-end inventories to both parent companies).
As previously announced, on January 2, 2017, Sanofi Pasteur and MSD separated their vaccine joint venture in Europe in order to pursue their own vaccine strategies and integrate their respective European vaccines businesses into their own operations.
Company sales by geographic region
Sanofi sales (€ million)
Q4 2016
Change
(CER)
2016
Change
(CER)
United States
3,321
+11.3%
12,391
+5.1%
Emerging Markets(a)
2,602
+3.5%
9,593
+2.4%
of which Latin America
710
+4.2%
2,503
-7.1%
of which Asia
782
-2.8%
3,109
+4.5%
of which Africa, Middle East and South Asia(b)
752
+11.4%
2,764
+9.9%
of which Eurasia(c)
329
+8.4%
1,090
+5.2%
Europe(d)
2,134
-1.7%
8,679
+0.6%
Rest of the World(e)
810
-11.0%
3,158
-13.4%
of which Japan
428
-22.2%
1,688
-24.8%
Total Sanofi sales
8,867
+3.4%
33,821
+1.2%
World excluding U.S., Canada, Western & Eastern Europe (except Eurasia), Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and Puerto Rico
India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka
Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Belarus, Armenia and Turkey
Western Europe + Eastern Europe except Eurasia
Japan, South Korea, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Puerto Rico
Fourth-quarter sales in the U.S. increased 11.3% to €3,321 million driven mainly by double digit growth of the multiple sclerosis franchise (up 37.4%) and Established products (up 22.4%), reflecting the low basis for comparison from the impact (-€122 million) of the recall of Auvi-Q in the fourth quarter of 2015. Growth in the fourth quarter also benefited from the performance of the Rare disease (up 7.7%), Oncology (up 5.0%), CHC (up 4.6%) and Vaccines (up 7.8%) franchises. The U.S. sales performance included growth of diabetes franchise (up 5.5%), aided by a low basis for comparison in the fourth quarter 2015. In 2016, sales in the U.S. increased 5.1% to €12,391 million.
Sales in Emerging Markets increased 3.5% to €2,602 million in the fourth quarter driven by Rare Disease (up 23.5%), Diabetes (up 4.1%), Generics (up 5.1%) and Vaccines (up 7.3%). In the Asia region, fourth-quarter sales decreased 2.8% to €782 million reflecting lower sales in China (down 10.5% to €496 million), primarily impacted by local vaccines market disruption and inventory fluctuation. In Latin America, fourth-quarter sales increased 4.2% to €710 million driven by sales in Argentina and Brazil. Fourth-quarter sales in Brazil increased 5.6% to €244 million supported by performance of Vaccines and Established products. Fourth-quarter sales in the Eurasia region increased 8.4% to €329 million supported by strong growth in Turkey and Ukraine. Over the quarter, sales in Russia returned to growth (up 3.0% to €178 million). In Africa, the Middle-East and South Asia, sales were up 11.4% to €752 million sustained by double digit growth in Middle-East, Africa and India. In 2016, sales in Emerging Markets increased 2.4% to €9,593 million. Excluding Venezuela, 2016 sales in Emerging Markets grew 7.0%. 2016 sales in China, Brazil and Russia were €2,039 million (up 0.5%), €983 million (up 1.7%), €499 million (down 7.1%), respectively.
Fourth-quarter sales in Europe were down 1.7% to €2,134 million. The performance of multiple sclerosis (up 34.8%), Rare disease (up 4.5%) and CHC (up 9.5%) were offset by lower sales in Diabetes (down 5.6%), Established Rx Products (down 3.3%) and Vaccines (down 46.3%). In 2016, sales in Europe increased 0.6% to €8,679 million.
Sales in Japan decreased 22.2% to €428 million in the fourth quarter, impacted by generic Plavix competition (down 49.3% to €82 million). In Japan, 2016 sales decreased 24.8% to €1,688 million.
R&D update
Consult Appendix 6 for full overview of Sanofi’s R&D pipeline
Regulatory update
Regulatory updates since the publication of the third quarter results on October 28, 2016 include the following:
In January 2017, Kevzara (sarilumab) was approved in Canada for the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in adults.
On October 28, 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Complete Response Letter (CRL) regarding the Biologics License Applications (BLA) for sarilumab for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis. The CRL refers to certain deficiencies identified during a routine good manufacturing practice inspection of the Sanofi Le Trait facility where sarilumab is filled and finished, one of the last steps in the manufacturing process. Satisfactory resolution of these deficiencies is required before the BLA can be approved. Based on review of Sanofi’s responses to the FDA 483 letters as well as proposed corrective actions, the FDA has classified the Le Trait ‘fill and finish’ facility as "acceptable". Sanofi plans the re-submission of sarilumab U.S. BLA in the first quarter of 2017 subject to successful FDA pre-approval inspection of Le Trait.
In December 2016, the European Medicines Agency accepted for review the Marketing Authorization Application for Dupixent (dupilumab) for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) who are candidates for systemic therapy.
In November 2016, the FDA approved once-daily Soliqua 100/33 (insulin glargine 100 Units/mL & lixisenatide 33 mcg/mL injection) for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on basal insulin (less than 60 Units daily) or lixisenatide. In January 2017, the European Commission also approved Suliqua in combination with metformin for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes to improve glycemic control when this has not been provided by metformin alone or metformin combined with another oral glucose lowering medicinal product or with basal insulin.
At the beginning of February 2017, the R&D pipeline contained 44 pharmaceutical new molecular entities (excluding Life Cycle Management) and vaccine candidates in clinical development of which 13 are in Phase 3 or have been submitted to the regulatory authorities for approval.
Portfolio update
Phase 3:
Sotagliflozin, an oral SGLT-1&2 inhibitor, entered into Phase 3 in type 2 diabetes.
The Phase 3 program evaluating dupilumab, an anti-IL4Rα monoclonal antibody, in nasal polyposis was initiated.
GZ402666 (also referred as neoGAA) entered into Phase 3 for the treatment of Pompe Disease.
Isatuximab, an anti-CD38 naked monoclonal antibody, entered Phase 3 development for the treatment of relapsed refractory multiple myeloma.
In November, Sanofi and Regeneron announced that the ongoing Praluent ODYSSEY OUTCOMES trial will continue as planned, based on the recommendation of an independent Data Monitoring Committee (DMC) after a second pre-specified interim analysis was conducted.
In November, the results of SARIL-RA-MONARCH, a Phase 3 study, demonstrated the superiority of investigational sarilumab monotherapy versus adalimumab (marketed by AbbVie as Humira) monotherapy in improving the clinical signs and symptoms in adults with active rheumatoid arthritis. The data were presented at the American College of Rheumatology 2016 Annual Meeting. Top-line results had been announced in March 2016.
Phase 2:
SAR439152, a myosin inhibitor, moved into Phase 2 for the treatment of Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
SAR425899, a GLP-1 / GCGR agonist, entered into Phase 2 in type 2 diabetes.
SAR566658, a maytansin-loaded anti-CA6 monoclonal antibody, moved into Phase 2 for the treatment of solid tumors.
Shan6, a pediatric hexavalent vaccine from Shantha, entered Phase 2.
A vaccine entered Phase 2 against HIV infection for at risk population.
Phase 1:
SAR439794, a TLR4 agonist immunomodulator, entered Phase 1 for the treatment of peanut allergy.
An inactivated Zika vaccine entered Phase 1.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus vaccine for infants entered Phase 1.
Collaboration
On December 28th, 2016, Hanmi and Sanofi entered into an amendment to their initial license agreement executed for the development of a portfolio of long-acting diabetes treatments. Sanofi returned to Hanmi the rights related to the weekly long-acting insulin to primarily focus on development of the weekly GLP-1 (efpeglenatide). Hanmi will take the development lead on the weekly insulin and will assume responsibility for the development of the long-acting weekly efpeglenatide/insulin drug combination for a certain period of time, after which Sanofi will re-assume responsibility for development.
2016 fourth-quarter and full-year financial results(7)
Business Net Income(7)
In the fourth quarter of 2016, Sanofi generated sales of €8,867 million, an increase of 3.3% (up 3.4% at CER). 2016 sales were €33,821 million, down 0.7% (up 1.2% at CER).
Fourth-quarter other revenues increased 31.9% to €310 million and include VaxServe sales of non-Sanofi products (up 62.5% to €221 million) following the change in presentation as of January 1, 2016(7). 2016 other revenues increased 10.7% to €887 million of which €581 million were generated by VaxServe (up 20.5%).
Fourth-quarter Gross Profit increased 4.5% to €6,221 million (up 4.5% at CER). The gross margin ratio improved by 0.8 percentage points to 70.2% versus the fourth quarter of 2015, reflecting mainly the positive impact of Aubagio and rare disease franchise, the low basis for comparison in the fourth quarter of 2015 from the recall of Auvi-Q and Medicaid delayed bills related to Lantus as well as industrial productivity improvements. In 2016, the gross margin ratio improved by 0.7 percentage points to 71.0% versus 2015, driven by the strong performance of Sanofi Genzyme. In 2016, the gross margin ratio of Pharmaceuticals was 72.4%, an improvement of 0.9 percentage points and the gross margin ratio of Vaccines was stable at 62.0%. Sanofi expects its gross margin ratio to be approximatively 70% at CER in 2017.
Research and Development expenses were up 5.4% to €1,437 million, (up 4.7% at CER) in the fourth quarter. This increase reflected the start of several Phase 3 programs especially isatuximab, as well as ongoing Toujeo studies. In 2016, the ratio of R&D to sales was 0.4 percentage points higher at 15.3% compared to the same period of 2015.
Selling general and administrative expenses (SG&A) increased 4.9% to €2,603 million in the fourth quarter. At CER, SG&A was up 4.8% mainly reflecting pre-launch costs for Kevzara and Dupixent, as well as one-time costs linked to the pre-integration of Boehringer Ingelheim CHC business. The ratio of SG&A to sales increased 0.5 percentage points to 29.4% compared with the fourth quarter of 2015. In 2016, the ratio of SG&A to sales was 0.5 percentage points higher at 28.0% compared with 2015 mainly due to launch costs of new products.
Fourth-quarter other current operating income net of expenses was -€78 million versus €24 million for the same period of 2015. In the fourth quarter of 2016, this line included a foreign exchange loss linked to our operation in Egypt. In 2016, other current operating income net of expenses was -€127 million versus -€208 million in 2015.
The share of profits from associates was €53 million in the fourth quarter versus €31 million for the same period of 2015. The share of profits from associates included Sanofi’s share in Regeneron profit as well as Sanofi’s share of profit in Sanofi Pasteur MSD (the Vaccines joint venture with Merck & Co. in Europe). In 2016, the share of profits from associates was €177 million versus €169 million in 2015.
In the fourth quarter, non-controlling interests were -€32 million versus -€39 million in the fourth quarter of 2015. In 2016, non-controlling interests were -€113 million versus -€126 million in 2015.
Fourth-quarter business operating income was stable at €2,124 million. At CER, business operating income increased 3.7%. The ratio of business operating income to net sales decreased 0.7 percentage point to 24.0% versus the same period of 2015. In 2016, business operating income decreased 0.3% to €9,285 million (or up 3.1% at CER). In 2016, the ratio of business operating income to net sales increased 0.2 percentage point to 27.5%. In 2016, the business operating income ratio of Pharmaceuticals was 26.8%, 0.1 percentage points lower and the business operating income ratio of vaccines improved 1.2 percentage points to 34.4%.
Net financial expenses were €125 million in the fourth quarter versus €73 million in the fourth quarter of 2015 which included disposals and reassessments of financial assets. Full-year net financial expenses were €399 million versus €381 million in 2015.
Fourth-quarter effective tax rate (without Animal Health) was 24.0% compared with 17.4% in 2015. The 2015 tax reflected the effects of the modification in France of the taxation of dividend. In 2016, the effective tax rate was 23.3% versus 21.7% in 2015.
Fourth-quarter and full-year 2016 business net income of Merial was €81 million (versus €17 million in the same period of 2015) and €476 million (versus €368 million in 2015), respectively.
(7) See Appendix 4 for 2016 fourth-quarter and 2016 Consolidated income statement; see Appendix 11 for definitions of financial indicators, and Appendix 3 for reconciliation of business net income to IFRS net income reported
Fourth-quarter business net income(7) decreased 6.0% to €1,606 million (down 2.9% at CER). In 2016, business net income decreased 0.9% to €7,308 million, (up 2.5% at CER).
In the fourth quarter of 2016, business earnings per share(7) (EPS) decreased 4.6% to €1.25 on a reported basis and 1.5% at CER. The average number of shares outstanding was 1,282.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2016 versus 1,304.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2015. In 2016, business earnings per share(7) was €5.68, up 0.7% on a reported basis and up 4.1% at CER. The average number of shares outstanding was 1,286.6 million in 2016 versus 1,306.2 million in 2015.
Cost savings
In 2016, Sanofi delivered approximately €650 million of cost savings which was largely reinvested to support growth initiatives. Sanofi expects that cost savings will reach €1.3 billion in 2017 and the company confirms that it remains on track to deliver at least €1.5 billion of cost savings by 2018.
2017 guidance
Sanofi expects 2017 Business EPS to be stable to -3% at CER, barring unforeseen major adverse events, consistent with its previously announced Strategic Roadmap guidance for the 2016-17 period. Applying the average December 2016 exchange rates, the currency impact on 2017 Business EPS is estimated to be +3% to +4%.
Dividend
The Board of Directors convened on February 7, 2017, and proposed a dividend of €2.96 per share.
From business net income to IFRS net income reported (see Appendix 3)
In 2016, the main reconciling items between business net income and IFRS net income reported were:
A €1,692 million amortization charge related to fair value remeasurement on intangible assets of acquired companies (primarily Aventis: €482 million and Genzyme: €866 million) and to acquired intangible assets (licenses/products: €142 million). A €412 million amortization charge on intangible assets related to fair value remeasurement of acquired companies (primarily Aventis: €103 million and Genzyme: €219 million), and to acquired intangible assets (licenses/products: €38 million) was booked in the fourth quarter. These items have no cash impact on the Company.
An impairment of intangible assets of €192 million (of which €119 recorded in the fourth quarter which included an impairment linked to Apleway/tofogliflozin in Japan). This item has no cash impact on the Company. The fourth quarter of 2015 included an impairment of intangible assets of €533 million mainly linked to Afrezza, rotavirus vaccine and Auvi-Q.
An impairment of €457 million related to Alnylam investment (of which €296 million recorded in the fourth quarter) for the difference between the market value based on the stock price as of December 31, 2016 and historical cost. On October 5, 2016, Alnylam announced the decision to end revusiran development program leading to a drop in the Alnylam stock price.
A charge of €135 million (of which €41 million in the fourth quarter) mainly reflecting an increase of Bayer contingent considerations linked to Lemtrada (charge of €78 million, of which €17 million in the fourth quarter) and CVR fair value adjustment (charge of €58 million, of which €24 million in the fourth quarter).
Restructuring costs and similar items of €879 million (including €189 million in the fourth quarter) mainly related to the organizational transformation program in France and worldwide.
A €841 million tax effect arising from the items listed above, comprising €647million of deferred taxes generated by amortization charged against intangible assets, €95 million associated with restructuring costs and similar items, €47million associated with impairment of intangible assets and €24 million associated with fair value remeasurement of contingent consideration liabilities. The fourth quarter tax effect was €95 million, including €197 million of deferred taxes on amortization charged against intangible assets, -€139 million associated with restructuring costs and similar items, €24 million associated with impairment of intangible asset (see Appendix 3). In the fourth quarter, these effects included the change in tax rates (mainly in France).
(7) See Appendix 4 for 2016 fourth-quarter and 2016 Consolidated income statement; see Appendix 11 for definitions of financial indicators, and Appendix 3 for reconciliation of business net income to IFRS net income reported
In "Share of profits/losses from associates and joint-ventures", an income of €9 million net of tax (which included a charge of €9 million related to fourth quarter of 2016), mainly relating to the share of fair value remeasurement on assets and liabilities of associates and the share of amortization of intangible assets of acquired associates and joint-ventures. This item has no cash impact on the Company.
A tax of €113 million on dividends paid to shareholders of Sanofi.
In Animal Health items, a net expense of €162 million (which included a net expense of €63 million related to the fourth quarter of 2016), mainly relating to a tax expense arising from the preparation steps of the exchange transaction with Boehringer Ingelheim and to the change in deferred tax charge resulting from taxable temporary differences relating to investments in subsidiaries since it is likely that these differences will reverse.
Capital Allocation
In 2016, net cash generated by operating activities decreased 4.1% to €7,798 million after capital expenditures of €1,486 million and an increase in working capital of €610 million. This net cash flow partially funded acquisitions and partnerships net of disposals (€936 million), restructuring costs and similar items (€729 million), the dividend paid by Sanofi (€3,759 million) and higher share repurchases (€2,908 million) in anticipation of the cash to be received as part of the asset swap with Boehringer Ingelheim. As a consequence, net debt increased from €7,254 million at December 31, 2015 to €8,206 million (excluding Merial) at December 31, 2016 (amount net of €10,273 million cash and cash equivalents).
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. These statements include projections and estimates and their underlying assumptions, statements regarding plans, objectives, intentions and expectations with respect to future financial results, events, operations, services, product development and potential, and statements regarding future performance. Forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "plans" and similar expressions. Although Sanofi’s management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors are cautioned that forward-looking information and statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of Sanofi, that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. These risks and uncertainties include among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, future clinical data and analysis, including post marketing, decisions by regulatory authorities, such as the FDA or the EMA, regarding whether and when to approve any drug, device or biological application that may be filed for any such product candidates as well as their decisions regarding labelling and other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of such product candidates, the absence of guarantee that the product candidates if approved will be commercially successful, the future approval and commercial success of therapeutic alternatives, Sanofi’s ability to benefit from external growth opportunities and/or obtain regulatory clearances, risks associated with intellectual property and any related pending or future litigation and the ultimate outcome of such litigation, trends in exchange rates and prevailing interest rates, volatile economic conditions, the impact of cost containment initiatives and subsequent changes thereto, the average number of shares outstanding as well as those discussed or identified in the public filings with the SEC and the AMF made by Sanofi, including those listed under "Risk Factors" and "Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" in Sanofi’s annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2015. Other than as required by applicable law, Sanofi does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements.

Results announcement for the fourth quarter 2016

On February 8, 2017 GSK reported continued momentum in 2016 through broadly-based sales growth, improved cash flow and further pipeline progression (Press release, GlaxoSmithKline, FEB 8, 2017, View Source [SID1234517667]).

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Summary:

Group sales £27.9 billion, +6% CER on a reported basis , +5% CER pro-forma
– Pharmaceuticals £16.1 billion, +3% (+4 % pro-forma); Vaccines £4.6 billion, +14% (+12% pro-forma); Consumer Healthcare £7.2 billion, +9% (+5% pro-forma)

New product sales more than doubled to £4.5 billion; Q4 £1.4 billion, +71% CER. Driven by HIV (Tivicay, Triumeq), Respiratory (Relvar/Breo, Anoro, Incruse, Nucala) and Meningitis vaccines (Bexsero, Menveo)
– New Pharmaceutical products sales represented 24% of 2016 Pharmaceuticals sales; 27% of Q4 sales

Improved core operating leverage across all three businesses
– Group core operating profit margin 27.9%; Pharmaceuticals 34.1%; Vaccines 31.7%; Consumer 15.5%
– Incremental annual cost savings of £1.4 billion delivered in 2016, with total annual cost savings now at £3.0 billion including currency benefit of £0.2 billion

2016 core EPS 102.4p, +12% CER

2016 total EPS 18.8p, -99% CER, primarily reflecting comparison with £9.2 billion profit in 2015 from disposal of marketed Oncology assets

2016 net cash flow from operations of £6.5 billion (2015: £2.6 billion), reflecting improved operating performance and the net benefit of exchange rate movements

GSK and Shionogi have agreed to remove the Shionogi put option and first two exercise windows of GSK’s call option in relation to ViiV Healthcare. Liability for put option of £1.2 billion de-recognised to equity

23p dividend declared for Q4 delivering total dividend for 2016 of 80p. Continue to expect 80p dividend for 2017

Continued progress by the Group expected in 2017 although core EPS growth subject to uncertainty of timing and impact of possible generic competition to Advair in the US
– In the event of no generic competition to Advair in the US, expect 2017 core EPS growth to be 5-7% CER
– In the event of a mid-year introduction of a substitutable generic competitor to Advair in the US, expect full year 2017 US Advair sales of ~£1 billion at CER (US$1.36/£1) with core EPS flat to a slight decline in percentage terms at CER
– January 2017 average exchange rates, if applied to whole of 2017, would benefit Sterling turnover by around 6% and core EPS by around 9%

Sustained pipeline progress with multiple milestones expected in 2017/18:
– Filed 4 assets with regulators in H2 2016 (Shingrix; Closed Triple; Benlysta SC; sirukumab), with regulatory decisions expected by end 2017
– 4 key phase III starts in Q4 for assets in HIV, respiratory and anaemia
– Continue to expect key data on between 20-30 assets by end 2018 in areas including HIV, respiratory, immuno-inflammation, oncology and vaccines


Outlook assumptions and cautionary statements
Assumptions related to 2017 guidance and 2016-2020 outlook
In outlining the expectations for 2017 and the five-year period 2016-2020, the Group has made certain assumptions about the healthcare sector, the different markets in which the Group operates and the delivery of revenues and financial benefits from its current portfolio, pipeline and restructuring programmes.

For the Group specifically, over the period to 2020 GSK expects further declines in sales of Seretide/Advair. The introduction of
a generic alternative to Advair in the US has been factored into the Group’s assessment of its future performance. The Group assumes no premature loss of exclusivity for other key products over the period. The Group’s expectation of at least £6 billion of revenues per annum on a CER basis by 2020 from the New Pharmaceutical and Vaccine products listed on page 31 includes contributions from the current pipeline asset Shingrix. This target is now expected to be met up to two years earlier. The Group also expects volume demand for its products to increase, particularly in Emerging Markets.

The assumptions for the Group’s revenue and earnings expectations assume no material interruptions to supply of the Group’s products and no material mergers, acquisitions, disposals, litigation costs or share repurchases for the Company; and no change
in the Group’s shareholdings in ViiV Healthcare or Consumer Healthcare. They also assume no material changes in the macro-economic and healthcare environment.

The Group’s expectations assume successful delivery of the Group’s integration and restructuring plans over the period 2016-2020. Material costs for investment in new product launches and R&D have been factored into the expectations given. The expectations are given on a constant currency basis and assume no material change to the Group’s effective tax rate or the tax regulatory environment in which it operates.

Assumptions and cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements
The Group’s management believes that the assumptions outlined above are reasonable, and that the aspirational targets described in this report are achievable based on those assumptions. However, given the longer term nature of these expectations and targets, they are subject to greater uncertainty, including potential material impacts if the above assumptions are not realised, and other material impacts related to foreign exchange fluctuations, macro-economic activity, changes in regulation, government actions or intellectual property protection, actions by our competitors, and other risks inherent to the industries in which we operate.

This document contains statements that are, or may be deemed to be, "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements give the Group’s current expectations or forecasts of future events. An investor can identify these statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as ‘anticipate’, ‘estimate’, ‘expect’, ‘intend’, ‘will’, ‘project’, ‘plan’, ‘believe’, ‘target’ and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, prospective products or product approvals, future performance or results of current and anticipated products, sales efforts, expenses, the outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings, and financial results. Other than in accordance with its legal or regulatory obligations (including under the UK Listing Rules and the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority), the Group undertakes no obligation
to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The reader should, however, consult any additional disclosures that the Group may make in any documents which it publishes and/or files with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). All readers, wherever located, should take note of these disclosures. Accordingly,
no assurance can be given that any particular expectation will be met and investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions, inherent risks and uncertainties, many of which relate to factors that are beyond the Group’s control or precise estimate. The Group cautions investors that a number of important factors, including those
in this document, could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement. Such factors include, but are not limited to, those discussed under Item 3.D ‘Risk factors’ in the Group’s Annual Report on Form
20-F for 2015 and those discussed in Part 2 of the Circular to Shareholders and Notice of General Meeting furnished to the SEC
on Form 6-K on 24 November 2014. Any forward looking statements made by or on behalf of the Group speak only as of the date they are made and are based upon the knowledge and information available to the Directors on the date of this report.

Myriad Genetics Reports Fiscal Second-Quarter 2017 Financial Results

On February 7, 2017 Myriad Genetics, Inc. (NASDAQ:MYGN), a global leader in molecular diagnostics and personalized medicine, reported financial results for its fiscal second-quarter 2017, provided an update on recent business highlights, updated its fiscal year 2017 financial guidance and issued fiscal third-quarter 2017 financial guidance (Press release, Myriad Genetics, FEB 7, 2017, View Source [SID1234517654]).

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"Revenues this quarter reached their highest level in the last three years, driven by a return to sequential growth in hereditary cancer revenue and strong results from GeneSight," said Mark C. Capone, president and CEO, Myriad Genetics. "Importantly, our diversification strategy is working with new products now contributing more than two thirds of testing volume. We also made steady progress on increasing reimbursement that will ultimately unlock significant operating leverage and long-term shareholder value."

Financial Highlights

The following table summarizes the financial results and product revenue for our fiscal second-quarter 2017:

Revenue
Fiscal Second-Quarter
($ in millions) 2017 2016 %
Change
Molecular diagnostic testing revenue

Hereditary cancer testing revenue $ 143.9 $ 165.6 (13%)

GeneSight testing revenue 21.7 NA NM

Vectra DA testing revenue 10.7 11.3 (5%)

Prolaris testing revenue 3.1 1.9 63%

EndoPredict testing revenue 1.6 0.9 78%

Other testing revenue 2.9 2.9 0%

Total molecular diagnostic testing revenue 183.9 182.6 1%

Pharmaceutical and clinical service revenue 12.6 10.7 18%

Total Revenue $ 196.5 $ 193.3 2%

Income Statement
Fiscal Second-Quarter
($ in millions) 2017 2016 %
Change
Total Revenue $ 196.5 $ 193.3 2%

Gross Profit 152.1 152.7 (0%)
Gross Margin 77.4% 79.0%

Operating Expenses 138.9 107.5 29%

Operating Income 13.2 45.2 (71%)
Operating Margin 6.7% 23.4%

Adjusted Operating Income 23.6 48.4 (51%)
Adjusted Operating Margin 12.0% 25.0%

Net Income 5.9 37.1 (84%)

Diluted EPS 0.09 0.50 (82%)

Adjusted EPS $ 0.26 $ 0.45 (42%)

Business Highlights

myRisk Hereditary Cancer
– Delivered sequential hereditary cancer growth of three percent in the fiscal second-quarter with hereditary cancer revenue of $144 million.
– Oncology volumes grew on a sequential basis fueled by preferred provider agreements, the customizable myRisk panel launch and improved sales force productivity.
– Signed a contract with Highmark Blue Shield to remain an in-network provider for hereditary cancer testing; ended the quarter with 65 percent of revenue under long-term contracts and greater than 95 percent of insurance plans in network.

GeneSight
– Volume grew 61 percent year-over-year to approximately 57,000 tests performed in the fiscal second-quarter.
– Anticipate completing enrollment this month and ahead of schedule in a 1,200 patient clinical utility study evaluating GeneSight in patients with treatment resistant depression.
– Presented a health economic analysis at the Neuroscience Education Institute Conference comparing the total costs for patients with anxiety whose medications were congruent versus incongruent with their GeneSight test report. The results showed that medication cost savings were $6,747 higher per member per year for patients that followed the GeneSight test recommendations.
– Completed a payer demonstration project using the Optum healthcare informatics platform from United Health that demonstrated substantial cost savings associated with the use of GeneSight. Initiated similar demonstration projects with Humana and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Vectra DA
– Volumes declined three percent in the second-quarter year-over-year with approximately 37,000 tests performed.
– Demonstrated that the AMPLE study when analyzed in a conventional way corroborates prior studies showing Vectra DA can predict radiographic progression with high statistical significance. This analysis along with data from 25 published clinical studies will be presented to refute a draft local non-coverage determination (LCD) issued by Medicare.
– Published an important clinical utility study for Vectra DA in Arthritis and Rheumatology. The study evaluated the ability of Vectra DA to predict response to biologic or non-biologic therapy in methotrexate incomplete responders. In the study, patients with a low Vectra DA score were statistically significantly more likely to respond to triple therapy relative to a biologic, and patients with high Vectra DA scores were statistically significantly more likely to respond to a biologic than triple therapy.
– Vectra DA was included in the United Rheumatology professional guidelines that represent approximately 10 percent of rheumatologists in the United States.
– Initiated our first payer demonstration project with an independent practice association in Southern California. This project will evaluate the impact of Vectra DA on patient outcomes and healthcare costs in a real world setting and will be used to support potential coverage of the test.

Prolaris
– Volumes grew 33 percent year-over-year with approximately 4,700 tests ordered.
– Received a draft LCD from Palmetto GBA for favorable intermediate patients that would represent a market expansion of approximately 30,000 patients per year in the United States. Prolaris is the only test to receive proposed Medicare coverage in this patient population.

EndoPredict
– Revenues grew 78 percent year-over-year to $1.6 million in the fiscal second-quarter.
– Received a favorable technical assessment for EndoPredict from the Blue Cross Blue Shield association tech assessment organization Evidence Street. In total, we have received positive coverage decisions from payers that represent 70 million lives.
– The Integrated Oncology Network (ION) recently made EndoPredict its preferred test for their physicians. ION is the largest physician service organization in oncology representing 50 percent of community oncologists in the United States.
– Confirmed that EndoPredict will be launched in the United States in fiscal year 2017.

myPath Melanoma
– The third clinical validation study and second clinical utility study were accepted for publication. Myriad intends to submit its reimbursement dossier to Medicare and private payers by the end of fiscal year 2017.

Companion Diagnostics
– Completed the submission of the myChoice HRD pre-market approval (PMA) application to the FDA for review in conjunction with niraparib.
– Data from the AstraZeneca SOLO2 study, which compared maintenance therapy with olaparib versus placebo in patients with platinum-sensitive relapsed ovarian cancer met its primary endpoint. These results further validate that BRCA status as determined by BRACAnalysis CDx test can identify patients who are likely to benefit from therapy with olaparib.

International
– International revenue grew to five percent of total product revenue.
– Signed an agreement with AstraZeneca in Japan to submit BRACAnalysis CDx for approval by Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) in parallel with the PMDA review of AstraZeneca’s novel PARP inhibitor, olaparib.
– Signed an agreement with AstraZeneca to perform Tumor BRACAnalysis testing in six Latin American countries.

Share Repurchase
– During the quarter, the Company repurchased approximately 600,000 shares, or $10 million, of common stock under our share repurchase program and ended the quarter with approximately $161 million remaining on our current share repurchase authorization.

Fiscal Year 2017 and Fiscal Third-Quarter 2017 Financial Guidance
Below is a table summarizing Myriad’s updated fiscal year 2017 and fiscal third-quarter 2017 financial guidance:


Revenue GAAP Diluted
Earnings Per
Share Adjusted
Earnings Per
Share
Fiscal Year 2017 $745-$755
million $0.31-$0.36 $1.00-$1.05

Fiscal Third-Quarter 2017 $188-$190
million $0.08-$0.10 $0.23-$0.25

These projections are forward-looking statements and are subject to the risks summarized in the safe harbor statement at the end of this press release. The Company will provide further details on its business outlook during its conference call today to discuss the fiscal second-quarter financial results and fiscal year 2017 and fiscal third-quarter 2017 financial guidance.

Cancer Research Technology, UCL, and Tusk Therapeutics join forces to develop cancer immunotherapies

On February 7, 2017 CANCER RESEARCH TECHNOLOGY, Cancer Research UK’s commercial arm, Tusk Therapeutics, an immuno-oncology company, and UCL (University College London) reported that they have signed a licence and collaboration agreement to research, develop and commercialise an antibody-based therapeutic against a target that plays a key role in immune suppression in cancer (Press release, Cancer Research Technology, JUL 7, 2017, View Source [SID1234523169]).

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Under the terms of the agreement, Tusk Therapeutics will receive an exclusive world-wide licence from CRT to develop and commercialise therapeutic antibodies against the target, originating from the Cancer Research UK-funded research of Dr Sergio Quezada and Professor Karl Peggs at UCL. In return, CRT will receive an upfront payment, future success-based milestones and royalty payments, which will be shared with UCL.

Tusk Therapeutics has additionally entered into a three-year collaboration with CRT and UCL to part-fund a programme of preclinical work, led by Dr Quezada, to evaluate candidate antibodies in various cancer models prior to initiation of formal preclinical and clinical development. At the end of the collaboration, Tusk Therapeutics will assume responsibility for accelerating the progress of selected antibody candidates into the clinic.

Dr Quezada said: "It is extremely exciting seeing years of preclinical work move closer to a potential real therapy for patients. We are very happy with the work to date and that which we will continue doing with the Tusk Therapeutics’ team."

Luc Dochez, CEO of Tusk Therapeutics, said: "We are proud to work together with Cancer Research UK and the group of Dr Quezada. The collaboration fits Tusk’s strategy of working with top researchers in the immune-oncology field and to bring promising assets from early stage discovery through development and to the clinic."

Dr Phil L’Huillier, CRT’s director of business management, said: "This collaboration brings together Cancer Research UK’s and UCL’s world-leading immune-oncology expertise with Tusk Therapeutics’ growing industry reputation for developing promising immune-modulating antibodies. It’s one of several projects now in our portfolio focused on the up-and-coming field of immune-oncology that we hope will accelerate progress towards exciting new treatments for cancer patients."