Nycomed is beefing up its business in Central and Eastern Europe through the purchase of 20 branded generic products from Sanofi-Aventis and Zentiva. The acquired portfolio has annual revenues of approximately €17million, or $24.33 million, in these regions according to Nycomed.

Nycomed has the right to sell the drugs in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Hungary, Estonia, and Bulgaria. The company will also take over production in the coming years.

Among the acquired products is Zentiva's hypnotic, Hypnogen, which is marketed in the Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, and Estonia. Also, in the Czech Republic the deal comprises a strong franchise of betablockers (Vasocardin, Betaxa, and Tenoloc), points out Nycomed. This strengthens the company’s cardiovascular business around Ebrantil.

Nycomed is a privately owned pharmaceutical company with a portfolio covering branded medicines in gastroenterology, respiratory and inflammatory diseases, pain, osteoporosis, as well as tissue management. It also has a range of OTC products. Headquartered in Zurich, the firm generated total sales of €3.4 billion, or $4.87 million, in 2008.

Nycomed Pads European Business with Acquisition of Generics from Sanofi-Aventis and Zentiva

Portfolio is expected to generate over $24 million annually in certain Central and Eastern European countries.