Sigma Pharmaceuticals (ASX:SIP) is a manufacturer and marketer of prescription, over-the-counter, and generic pharmaceutical products. It is also the owner of a leading full-line wholesale and distribution business to pharmacies.

Today SIP reported a 1H12 net profit of $26.7 million, which compares to a net loss of $9.2 million a year earlier.

SIP's strong cash flow generation put a major dent in net interest expense, which was a key driver of the profit result.

EBIT jumped 55% on-year, helped by a 9% lift in underlying revenue. The healthy sales result reflected market share gains.

An interim dividend of 1.5 cents was declared. SIP said more would be done in the coming year to keep it ahead of industry changes.

SIP has been one of today's best performers in the Australian share market. It has also been one of the top stocks in recent months, having more than doubled in price since March.