CIMA Granted U.S. Patents for Fast-Dissolve, Sustained Release Potassium Chloride Product As Adjunct Therapy for Hypertension.

Business Editors & Health/Medical Writers

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 26, 2002

CIMA LABS INC. (Nasdaq:CIMA) today announced it has been granted a patent (U.S. No. 6,365,182) from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for a fast-dissolve, sustained release potassium chloride product, which is typically prescribed as an adjunct therapy for the treatment hypertension.

The patent covers the use of CIMA's OraSolv(R) SR/CR fast-dissolve, sustained release drug delivery technology with the active ingredient, potassium chloride. This is CIMA's first patent covering both an active ingredient and CIMA's drug delivery technology.

The Company said it is evaluating potential business opportunities for a proprietary product based on this patent.

Many potassium chloride products are currently on the market, but none are available in a fast-dissolve, sustained release oral dosage form. CIMA believes that a potassium chloride product with the compliance benefits of its OraSolv SR/CR technology could have a definite competitive advantage in the marketplace.

About CIMA LABS

CIMA develops and manufactures prescription and over-the-counter products based upon its proprietary, fast-dissolve drug delivery technologies, OraSolv(R) and DuraSolv(R). Based on our technologies, an active drug ingredient, which is frequently taste-masked, is formulated into a new, orally disintegrating dosage form that dissolves quickly in the mouth without chewing or the need for water. CIMA's business involves a dual operating strategy. We develop and manufacture fast-dissolve versions of drugs for pharmaceutical company partners for whom we currently produce three branded prescription pharmaceuticals and two over-the-counter brands. In a new strategic initiative, CIMA is also developing proprietary products that will utilize our OraSolv and DuraSolv technologies, as well as our new OraVescent(R) enhanced absorption, transmucosal drug delivery system.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from CIMA's assumptions and expectations. These factors include but are not limited to the success of clinical programs, the extent of product labeling claims allowed by regulatory authorities, marketing efforts of third parties, and the acceptance of our products by patients. Additional factors that may cause actual results to differ from CIMA's assumptions and expectations include those specified in CIMA's most recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the heading "Factors That Could Affect Future Results". All forward-looking statements are qualified by, and should be considered in conjunction with, such cautionary statements.