Q2 2008 sales up 18%

1st half-year sales up 16%, revision upwards of 2008 sales growth guidance: ≥12%

2008 second quarter sales recorded strong growth in all markets (+18% vs +13% in 2007). Eastern European markets and other markets outside Europe made a significant contribution to this growth. The most buoyant segment of the market remained desensitisation via the sublingual route (SLIT, +21%, vs +15% in 2007) whose reputation was enhanced by the launch of allergen tablets.

Cumulated sales for the first half-year increased by 16% compared to the first half 2007, when growth was already particularly strong (+ 17%). This good performance has enabled the Group to revise its sales growth guidance upwards to growth of at least 12% in 2008 (vs ≥10% previously), boosted by the growing success of the sublingual route, in which Stallergenes continues to strengthen its leadership.

The commercial launch of ORALAIR^® Grasses for adults will take place in Germany in the next few weeks, following the grant, on 24 June 2008, of the marketing authorisation. The request for a paediatric extension of ORALAIR^® Grasses has been filed with the Paul Ehrlich Institute. The application for clinical studies for ORALAIR^® Grasses in the US will be filed in July.

The 2008 first half-year financial results will benefit from a strong level of activity and will show a marked improvement compared to 2007. These results will be released on 27 August 2008.