Sanofi-Aventis engages in the research, development, manufacture, and marketing of pharmaceutical products for sale principally in the prescription market worldwide.

The company offers prescription pharmaceuticals in six therapeutic areas: cardiovascular, thrombosis, metabolic disorders, oncology, central nervous system, and internal medicine. As of December 31, 2004, Sanofi-Aventis had a total of 128 compounds in development in seven therapeutic areas, including 20 for vaccines, 48 of which were in phase II or phase III clinical trials.

In addition, the company manufactures and markets various over the counter and generic products. It offers its products approximately in 100 countries.