Sanofi (SNY -2.27%) is one of the globe's largest drug companies. It's a major player in diabetes treatments, vaccines, and consumer medicines, and is often included in dividend portfolios.

However, looming patent expiration on its top-selling drug, falling margin, and potential competition from Eli Lilly (LLY -1.81%) and Novo Nordisk (NVO -1.93%) could all impact Sanofi's bottom line, and threaten Sanofi's dividend.

In the following slideshow, you'll learn whether I think Sanofi's dividend is safe, and see how Sanofi's dividend matches up to Lilly and Novo Nordisk.