Re:- Sanofi-aventis insulin portfolio Dear Healthcare Professional,

27th June 2005

I am aware that some recent announcements from another insulin manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, regarding the proposed discontinuation of several presentations of major insulin brands, has caused some confusion and in some cases disappointment. The purpose of my letter is to clarify the position regarding the availability of the sanofi-aventis insulin portfolio, and to reassure you that we have no plans to discontinue any of our current range of insulins. Sanofi-aventis market the following presentations of insulin in the UK. 1) Human Insulins a) Short Acting b) Intermediate Acting - Insuman Rapid 5 x 3ml Cartridge - Insuman Rapid 5 x 3ml OptiSet - Insuman Basal 5 x 3ml Cartridge - Insuman Basal 5 x 3ml OptiSet - Insuman Basal 1 x 5ml Vial - Insuman Comb 25/75 5 x 3ml Cartridge - Insuman Comb 25/75 5 x 3ml OptiSet - Insuman Comb 25/75 1 x 5ml Vial - Insuman Comb 50/50 5 x 3ml Cartridge - Insuman Comb 50/50 5 x 3ml OptiSet - Insuman Comb 15/85 5 x 3ml OptiSet - Lantus 5 x 3ml Cartridge - Lantus 5 x 3ml OptiSet - Lantus 1 x 10ml Vial

c) Premixed

2) Analogue Insulins a) Long Acting Analogue

It is clear to me that whilst the introduction of newer insulins supported with good clinical evidence is important to benefit people with diabetes, there are many of your patients whose disease is well managed on currently available treatments. However for those people with diabetes who will benefit from newer technologies, I am pleased to confirm two new introductions into the UK in the very near future.

i)

In the autumn of 2005 we will introduce the OptiClik pen delivery device for Lantus. This is a semi-disposable pen device which represents a big step forward in insulin delivery and has several unique benefits over existing delivery devices Apidra (insulin glulisine) is sanofi-aventiss rapid acting insulin analogue. Apidra gained an EU marketing authorisation in late 2004, and we planned to have it available in the UK in early 2006. However I am currently working hard to bring this new insulin to the UK in the next few months, and hope to confirm this launch date with you very soon.

ii)

Sanofi-aventis take the ongoing supply of quality products to people with diabetes very seriously. I hope this letter helps to clarify our position. Please be assured of our best attention at all times, if you or your patients require any further information please dont hesitate to call the sanofi-aventis insulin support line, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 0845 606 6887. Yours sincerely Khurem Farooq Director Diabetes Business Unit