After slashing as many as 12,600 jobs since 2007, Anglo-Swedish drug-maker AstraZeneca now has plans to axe further 8,000 jobs worldwide by 2014 as a part of its cost-cutting drive.

AstraZeneca also warned that it might close some of R&D sites or facilities as part of its reorganization that aims to make savings of $1.8 billion over the approaching four years.

The drug-maker announced its plans to make further job cuts despite increase in profits.

Company’s net profit climbed 24 per cent to settle at $6.32 billion last year. Pre-tax profits jumped from $8.7 billion to settle at $10.8 billion. Robust sales of cholesterol treatment drug and government orders for swine flu vaccines boosted company’s profit.

Commenting on the topic, AstraZeneca CEO David Brennan said, “Our plans for the next five years confirm our commitment to research-based, innovative biopharmaceuticals."

The company sees a tough 2010 as a number of its key drugs patents are going to expire this year.

Shares in AstraZeneca shed 92.41 pence to close at ?29.53-a-share.