Pharma major mulls over sale of Consumer Health unit

Shares in German life sciences company Merck KGaA (MRK:DE) had climbed by more than 3% to 95.10 euros ($113) by lunchtime on Tuesday after the firm announced it was preparing strategic options for its Consumer Health business.

Options being considered include a potential full or partial sale of the business, as well as strategic partnerships. The unit achieved sales of 860 million euros in 2016 and boasts some well-known brands such as the nutritional supplements Seven Seas and the decongestant Nasivin.

But sales have lagged behind other units and Merck has been forced to review its strategy and consider how to ensure its financial targets are met, partly due to a decline in its liquid crystal business.