SanofiSynthélabo

SanofiSynthélabo was a French pharmaceutical company formed in 1999 through the merger of Sanofi and Synthélabo. Sanofi had been established in 1973 by the oil company Elf Aquitaine, while Synthélabo originated from the pharmaceutical division of the L'Oréal group. The merger aimed to create a stronger, more competitive entity in the global pharmaceutical market.

Following its formation, SanofiSynthélabo pursued a strategy of growth through both organic development and acquisitions. Key therapeutic areas for the company included cardiovascular diseases, thrombosis, central nervous system disorders, diabetes, and oncology. It was known for developing and marketing a range of well-known medications.

In 2004, SanofiSynthélabo underwent another significant transformation when it acquired the American pharmaceutical company Aventis. This merger resulted in the creation of Sanofi-Aventis, a global healthcare leader. The name SanofiSynthélabo ceased to exist as an independent entity after this acquisition, becoming part of the larger Sanofi organization. The legacy of SanofiSynthélabo is therefore integrated into the history and operations of the present-day Sanofi.