Boehringer Ingelheim sees flat sales on patent losses

Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH expects sales to show little change this year as two of its biggest US medicines face generic competition, prompting the world's largest family-owned drugmaker to consider more takeovers to spur growth.

According to chairman Andreas Barner, the company is seeking targeted acquisitions, noting that investments could come in biotechnology companies and start-ups.

Boehringer needs to plug the gap left this year, as the company has already begun making deals. The German drugmaker also said it will increase spending on research and development.

Earlier in November, Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health has closed the deal to acquire a significant portion of the Fort Dodge Animal Health business from Pfizer.

The acquisition, which includes products in the US, Australia, Canada and South Africa, as well as two manufacturing and research facilities located in Fort Dodge, Iowa, significantly increases the size of Boehringer Ingelheim's companion animal and cattle portfolios and strengthens the company's position as a leading vaccine supplier.