Third quarter sales growth gives AstraZeneca confidence

AstraZeneca's sales in the third quarter increased by 9% and operating profit by 6%. However, currency volatility meant that exchange rate effects reduced sales by 5% and operating profits by 1%. For the first nine months of the year sales rose by 8% and operating profit by 4%.The GI franchise continued to perform strongly with sales up 4% in the third quarter and in the first nine months.

The six-month paediatric exclusivity period relating to the substance patent for Prilosec in the US expired on 5 October. The company has received confirmation that its pending litigation to defend its other patents, including the formulation patents associated with Prilosec in the US, will go to trial in New York on 5 December. To date, the company is not aware of the FDA having granted an ANDA approval for any generic omeprazole products.

Strong sales growth was also reported for the respiratory (+18%), oncology (+25%) and CNS (+72%) product ranges.

Developments in the company's new product pipeline in the third quarter included the release of the first long-term Phase III data for Crestor. These reinforced its record of superior impact on lipid levels and greater ability to achieve patient's cholesterol targets than other currently available statins, said AZ. In addition, a presentation of the safety data from the Phase II/III programme revealed a tolerability and safety profile comparable to the currently marketed products in the class.

The first regulatory approval for the use of Casodex 150mg tablets for the treatment of early prostate cancer was achieved in the UK in September, while Iressa remains on track for its first regulatory submissions at the end of the year. 'I am confident of a good outcome for the full year,' said ceo Tom McKillop.