Sanofi Withdraws Flu Vaccine in France Amid Pricing Dispute

Sanofi, a major pharmaceutical company, has announced the withdrawal of its Efluelda flu vaccine from the French market in the coming weeks due to a pricing dispute with the country's health authorities. The decision comes after the company failed to reach an agreement with the authorities on the price of the vaccine.

Efluelda is a higher-dose flu vaccine specifically developed to protect the most vulnerable people over 65 years old. Sanofi has invested 50 million euros to maintain part of the vaccine's production in France. However, the French health authorities set the sales price for the vaccine at a level lower than Sanofi's production and distribution costs.

The health authorities have not been convinced by the studies demonstrating Efluelda's superior effectiveness compared to standard flu vaccines, and therefore refuse to recommend it more than other vaccines for the elderly. This decision is part of a broader context where the pharmaceutical industry believes that France sets prices for medicines too low.

Why this matters: The withdrawal of Efluelda from the French market highlights the ongoing tensions between pharmaceutical companies and governments over drug pricing. It also raises concerns about the potential impact on public health, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly who rely on effective flu vaccines.

Sanofi has obtained the support of a major pharmacists' union, which has accused the government of persisting in a "low-cost health paradigm". However, the withdrawal of Efluelda should not affect the overall availability of flu vaccines, as Sanofi will offer its classic vaccine as a replacement.

In a statement, Sanofi said, "We regret having to make this decision, but the current pricing conditions do not allow us to continue distributing Efluelda in France while covering our costs. We remain committed to providing effective flu vaccines to the French population through our classic vaccine offering."

Key Takeaways

• Sanofi withdraws its Efluelda flu vaccine from French market due to pricing dispute.
• Efluelda is a higher-dose vaccine for the elderly, but French authorities set price below Sanofi's costs.
• Authorities not convinced of Efluelda's superior effectiveness, part of France's low drug pricing policy.
• Withdrawal raises concerns about impact on vulnerable populations, but Sanofi will offer classic vaccine.
• Ongoing tensions between pharma companies and governments over drug pricing.