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Use of laboratory animals for research - Policy

Beyond strict compliance with the various regulations in effect, the Group's proactive approach is illustrated by the creation of the sanofi-aventis Charter on the Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals and by the fact that it obtains accreditation for its programs on the care and use of laboratory animals.  

The Group adheres to the 3R Principle (Reduction /Replacement /Refinement) and has taken a series of initiatives in line with this principle. Sanofi-aventis pays particular attention to animal welfare and applies the highest standards of care. It takes every measure to avoid pain and distress for animals.

The Group submits all study protocols for approval by an internal ethics committee; the committee validates the scientific value of the experiment, ensures no other method can be used and assesses the pain experienced by the animal. In addition, sanofi-aventis uses the lowest possible number of animals, encourages the use of alternative methods and ensures that all personnel is qualified and competent.

• Consult the 3R Principle on the Sustainability Report 2007 (new window, PDF, 2.9 Mb)
• Download the Charter on the Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (new window, PDF, 0.1 Mb)