Meda AB Has Settled The U.S. Astelin(R) Patent Litigation with Apotex Inc.

STOCKHOLM, Sweden--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regulatory News: Meda (STO:MEDAA), through its wholly owned U.S. subsidiary, Meda Pharmaceuticals Inc., has entered into a settlement agreement with Apotex Inc. and Apotex Corp. (hereafter Apotex) that resolves the U.S. patent litigation between the companies regarding Apotex’s proposed generic versions of Astelin® and Optivar®. Astelin® (azelastine hydrochloride nasal spray) is used for treatment of allergic and non-allergic rhinitis and Optivar® (azelastine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution) is used for treatment of allergic conjunctivitis. These products are protected in the U.S. by a patent that expires on 1 November 2010, with paediatric exclusivity extending until 1 May 2011.