Tibotec files application to start a phase I clinical trial for HCV inhibitor

Tibotec Pharmaceuticals Inc, on behalf of the Medivir and Tibotec collaborative drug discovery project on hepatitis C virus (HCV), has filed an application with a European regulatory authority to commence the first phase I clinical trial of an HCV NS3/4A protease inhibitor. This trial is estimated to begin during Q1/2007. The collaboration was initiated in November 2004. This milestone triggers a payment of EUR 2.5 million to Medivir.

“There is an important need for the development of innovative new drugs for hepatitis C. It is extremely pleasing that this project with joint resources and efforts now stands at the threshold of clinical trials. We look forward to 2007 and our continued collaboration with Tibotec” says Medivir’s CEO Lars Adlersson.

Hepatitis C is a liver disease which is caused by infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). According to the WHO, 3% of the global population is infected with HCV, which means 200 million individuals. In the USA, 1.8% of the population is infected, that is 3.9 million people. In more than 60% of these cases, the HCV infection leads to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and liver tumors. It is the most common reason for liver transplant. The HCV market is currently dominated by interferon-based treatments.


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