Sanofi-Aventis announced the acquisition of Medley, a Brazilian pharmaceutical manufacturer, for $658 million. The transaction is expected to be finalized during the second quarter of 2009. According to a Sanofi release, Medley is the third largest pharmaceutical company—and the largest generic manufacturer—in Brazil. Medley posted roughly $201 million in sales for 2008, according to the statement.

 

Takeda announced plans to expand sales and marketing operations in Spain and Ireland. In Spain, the company will commence with promotional activities in support of Blopress, a blood pressure drug, and Glustin, a diabetes treatment. In Ireland, the company expanded promotional activities for Actos, a treatment for type 2 diabetes.