Astellas Discontinues Development of Immunosuppressant FK778.

Tokyo, Japan, June 30, 2006 - (JCN Newswire) - Astellas Pharma Inc. today announced that it has decided to discontinue development of FK778, an immunosuppressant.

Astellas started Phase-II trials for FK778 for organ transplants in combination with Prograf(R) in the US and Europe. After careful review of the Phase-II clinical data on FK778, however, Astellas has decided to discontinue further development of FK778 in organ transplantation since the data reviewed did not indicate clear benefits over current treatment options in combination with Prograf(R).

Astellas is committed to immunology and the transplant community and will continue its leading-edge research and development program, exploring new treatment options that provide meaningful advancement over current therapies, for years to come.

About Astellas Pharma Inc.

Astellas Pharma Inc., located in Tokyo, Japan, is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving the health of people around the world through the provision of innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products. In April 2005, the company was formed through the merger of Fujisawa Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. and Yamanouchi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. The organization is committed to becoming a global mega pharmaceutical company by combining outstanding R&D and marketing capabilities and continuing to grow in the world pharmaceutical market. For more information on Astellas Pharma Inc., please visit the company's website at www.astellas.com.

Source: Astellas Pharma Inc.

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Astellas Pharma Inc.
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http://www.astellas.com

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