Sanofi-aventis  announced that the waiting period under the Hart-Scott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, applicable to sanofi-aventis’ proposed acquisition of Genzyme Corporation has expired.

On October 4, 2010, sanofi-aventis commenced a tender offer to purchase all outstanding shares of common stock of Genzyme for $69 per share in cash.

The expiration of the HSR waiting period is a requisite step in satisfaction of the condition to the tender offer relating to antitrust approvals, which remains subject to the other conditions described in the Offer to Purchase filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission on October 4, 2010.

Sanofi-aventis, a leading global pharmaceutical company, discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions to improve the lives of everyone.