ViroPharma's sales outlook tops expectations

EXTON, Pa. - Biopharmaceutical company ViroPharma Inc. forecast full-year sales for 2008 above Wall Street's expectations on Wednesday, after reporting that its earnings jumped 27 percent in the third quarter.

ViroPharma said its results were boosted by sales of Vancocin, a treatment for gastrointestinal infection, and a lower tax rate.

For 2008, ViroPharma predicts that Vancocin sales will range from $235 million to $245 million. Analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters forecast sales of $233.3 million.

ViroPharma shares gained 92 cents, or 8.3 percent, to $11.99 in morning trading. The stock has traded between $7.11 and $15.16 during the past 52 weeks.

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