French healthcare company Sanofi S.A. (Euronext Paris:SAN) (Nasdaq:SNY) announced on Friday that it is in discussions with US private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) to sell a controlling 50% stake in its consumer healthcare business Opella.

If a deal is reached, it would be subject to social processes before completion.

Opella is a global player in the over-the-counter and vitamins, minerals and supplements market, with a strong portfolio of brands including Allegra, Doliprane and Novanight. The company employs over 11,000 people and operates in 100 countries.

The potential sale of Opella aligns with Sanofi's strategy to focus on innovative medicines and vaccines. Opella has already been operating as a standalone business unit within Sanofi, with its own R&D, production and digital resources.