Sanofi Builds US-based Consumer Powerhouse in Preparation for Allegra OTC Switch

Sanofi-Aventis' $1.8 billion bid for over-the-counter and personal care product firm Chattem Inc. offers the French firm a coveted toehold in the sizeable US consumer health care market while also opening potential opportunities in emerging markets. As such, the deal is in line with the French pharma's emphasis on diversification, helping the company hedge the development risks associated with its branded pharmaceuticals.