STAT+: Sanofi avoids fine as EU accepts offer to end antitrust probe over disparaging rival vaccine

The European Union has settled an antitrust probe against Sanofi, accepting the company's offer to end a campaign that was deemed misleading and disparaging of a rival flu vaccine.

Sanofi, a major pharmaceutical company, had been under investigation for allegedly running a campaign that suggested its flu vaccine was superior to a rival product, despite the lack of scientific evidence to support this claim.

The EU's decision to accept Sanofi's offer means that the company will avoid a potential fine, but it will have to ensure that its marketing practices comply with EU competition rules in the future.

This settlement is significant as it sends a clear message to pharmaceutical companies about the importance of fair competition and accurate marketing practices in the healthcare sector.