Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC Release: New Xeomin(TM), Now Indicated in Canada for Blepharospasm, Cervical Dystonia(i), and Post-Stroke Spasticity

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - March 26, 2009) - Merz Pharma Canada Ltd. announces that Xeomin™, the first botulinum neurotoxin type A that is free of complexing proteins, received a Notice of Compliance from Health Canada for the indications of symptomatic management of Blepharospasm, Cervical dystonia(i) and post-stroke spasticity of the upper limb.

Spasticity and dystonia are indications that can require high doses of neurotoxin and long-term treatment. This may be associated with an increase in the formation of antibodies when using neurotoxins with a high foreign protein load.(1)(2)

With Xeomin™ the elimination of complexing proteins is achieved with a new and unique filtering technology. It separates the purified neurotoxin from the foreign complexing proteins that do not contribute to the therapeutic effect (hemagglutinins and a non-toxic non-hemagglutinating protein).

Another important benefit of our filtering breakthrough is that unopened vials of Xeomin™ can be stored at room temperature (less than 25 degrees C) for up to 3 years. This improved shelf life greatly reduces the risk of a compromised storage temperature either during shipping, at the pharmacy or in a medical office.(3)

Botulinum neurotoxin type A is considered by many to be the treatment of choice for focal spasticity(4)(5) and dystonia(6). New Xeomin™ offers some potential advantages for patients suffering from Blepharospasm, Xervical dystonia(i) and post-stroke spasticity, compared to currently available products. Xeomin™ will be available in Canada in the near future and we will notify healthcare professionals in writing when the availability date approaches.

About Merz Pharmaceuticals GmbH (www.merz.com):

Merz Pharmaceuticals, a member of the Merz Group of companies, is an innovative and international healthcare company specializing in the research, development and marketing of pharmaceuticals for the treatment of neurological and psychiatric diseases. Merz is a leader in the field of neurology. In addition to developing Xeomin™, the company has developed memantine (Axura®) - the first drug for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. The company also focuses on the development of innovative therapies within the therapeutic areas of hepatology, metabolic disease and dermatology.

(i) Predominantly rotational form (spasmodic torticollis)

(1) Dressler. Nervenarzt 2006 Aug;77:912-21. (2) Jankovic et al. Neurology 2003;60:1186-8. (3) Xeomin™ product monograph Merz Canada Ltd. March 10. 2009. (4) Ward et al. JRehabil Med 2003;35:98-99. (5) Simpson et al. Neurology 2008;70:1699-1706 (6) Benecke et al. Neurology 2005;64:1949-1951