Brian White at Shore Capital said: "We suspect that not only is this business non-core, but the device and dental implant industry generally has faced issues in the current economic climate. Given the late-stage pipeline opportunities that AstraZeneca currently has on its plate, one could speculate that such a divestment process confirms the company's confidence in its pharmaceuticals business overall and a purity of focus. Given the higher margins generated by its pharma business, this could ultimately generate greater rewards." AstraZeneca faces a "patent cliff" – with several of its biggest-selling drugs, including Nexium for the stomach and Seroquel for schizophrenia, coming off patent in the next four years. It has suffered several setbacks with cancer drugs in clinical trials but its heart drug Brilinta looks more promising.