Medicis Pharmaceutical Issues Response to Anthrax Treatment Inquiries
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--Oct. 22, 2001--Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation (NYSE:MRX) today issued a response to the numerous inquiries it has received about the availability of its antibiotic DYNACIN(R) (minocycline HCl capsules, USP). Minocycline is a member of the tetracycline class of antibiotics which has been recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a treatment for anthrax.
In support of national efforts to coordinate availability of agents to treat anthrax, Medicis is engaged in communications with health officials and public policy leaders to assist with adequate supplies of DYNACIN(R) to the public. DYNACIN(R) is indicated for the treatment of infections due to Bacillus anthracis, or anthrax.
DYNACIN(R), which can be used to treat all forms of anthrax (inhaled, intestinal and cutaneous) in adults and children above 8 years of age, has been available in the U.S. since it was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1991. Full prescribing and safety information can be obtained at http://www.dynacin.com/PRESCRIBING/main.html.
Medicis is the leading independent pharmaceutical company in the United States focusing primarily on the treatment of dermatological conditions. Medicis develops and markets leading products for major segments within dermatology, including acne, fungal infections, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, photoaging, psoriasis, eczema, skin and skin-structure infections, seborrheic dermatitis, head lice and cosmesis (improvement in the texture and appearance of skin).
Except for historical information, this press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Securities Litigation Reform Act. All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that Medicis expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. This includes completion of the proposed merger with Ascent Pediatrics, Inc., earnings estimates, future financial performance and other matters. These statements are based on certain assumptions made by Medicis based on its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Such statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of Medicis. Any such projections or statements include the current views of Medicis with respect to future events and financial performance. No assurances can be given, however, that these events will occur or that such results will be achieved and there are numbers or important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, including the ability to consummate the transaction with Ascent, the ability of Medicis to successfully integrate Ascent's operations, the ability to realize anticipated synergies and benefits of the transaction, the risks and uncertainties normally incident to the pharmaceutical industry, dependence on sales of key products, the uncertainty of future financial results and fluctuations in operating results, dependence on Medicis' acquisition strategy, the timing and success of new product introductions and other risks described from time to time in Medicis' SEC filings including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2001. Forward-looking statements represent the judgment of Medicis' management as of the date of this release, and Medicis disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statements.
NOTE: Full prescribing information for any Medicis prescription product is available by contacting the Company. All marks (or brands) and names are the property of Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation or its Affiliates.
Contacts: Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation, Scottsdale Libby Ivy, 602/808-3854 www.medicis.com