AstraZeneca Relinquishes Distribution Rights to MUSE Impotence Drug

VIVUS International Ltd., a subsidiary of VIVUS Inc. (Mountain View, CA), and AstraZeneca (London) have resolved all financial obligations relating to AstraZeneca's return of marketing and distribution rights for MUSE (alprostadil) to VIVUS.

AstraZeneca will continue to handle patient and physician inquiries and ensure product supply in all countries in which AstraZeneca currently markets MUSE. Over the next year, this support will be phased out as VIVUS establishes new distribution partners in these markets.

In addition, the company has received marketing license for MUSE in Italy and will recognize $2.0 million in milestone revenue during the fourth quarter of 1999.

VIVUS Inc. is the developer and manufacturer of MUSE (alprostadil) and ACTIS, two medications for the treatment of men with erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence. The company's goal is to develop and commercialize innovative therapies for the treatment of sexual dysfunction and urologic disorders in men and women. VIVUS has ongoing research and development programs in female sexual dysfunction and male premature ejaculation.

For more information: Leland F. Wilson, President and CEO, VIVUS Inc., 605 E. Fairchild Dr., Mountain View, CA 94043. Tel: 650-934-5200. Fax: 650-934-5389.

Edited by Jim Pomager