Sanofi-aventis sues Novopharm for patent infringement in Canada

Sanofi-aventis has learned through the Canadian Ministry of Health website that Novopharm Limited had obtained marketing approval in Canada for a product claiming to be generic enoxaparin. Sanofi-aventis companies Aventis Pharma Inc. and Aventis Pharma S.A. are bringing suit in the Federal Court against Novopharm for patent infringement of Canadian patent 2045433, which covers Lovenox®. Sanofi-aventis will vigorously defend its legal rights with respect to this patent. About sanofi-aventis Sanofi-aventis is the world’s 3rd largest pharmaceutical company, ranking number 1 in Europe. Backed by a world-class R&D organization, sanofi-aventis is developing leading positions in seven major therapeutic areas: cardiovascular, thrombosis, oncology, metabolic disorders, central nervous system, internal medicine, and vaccines. Sanofi-aventis is listed in Paris (EURONEXT : SAN) and in New York (NYSE : SNY) Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications: Nicole Cranois - Vice President, Media Relations: Jean-Marc Podvin Tel.:+33 1.53.77.42.23 - Fax: +33 1.53.77.42.65 - 174, avenue de FRANCE - 75013 Paris - France - www.sanofi-aventis.com