Oclassen Pharmaceuticals acquires rights to market Micanol(TM), a new topical therapy for psoriasis.

SAN RAFAEL, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 5, 1995--Oclassen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Bioglan AB of Malm, Sweden Thursday announced that Oclassen has obtained exclusive U.S. and Canadian marketing rights to Micanol(TM) (anthralin) cream 1%, Bioglan's patented topical anthralin product for the treatment of psoriasis.

It is estimated that up to two percent of the U.S. population suffers from psoriasis, a disfiguring skin disease, at some point in their lives. Topical steroids currently are used as the major first line therapy, but resistance may develop and psoriasis usually returns once therapy is stopped. Topical vitamin D3 derivatives recently have been introduced, however these also must be used continuously to achieve prolonged clearance of psoriasis lesions.

Ointments containing anthralin, which is often regarded as the ``Gold Standard'' of topical therapy, have been prescribed for more than 70 years for the treatment of psoriasis.

Anthralin has been shown to be able to rapidly clear psoriasis and keep it clear for many months, even after treatment is stopped. However, the use of current anthralin formulations has been limited primarily by their messiness and tendency to cause purple staining of skin and clothing.

The patented Crystalip cream vehicle used in Micanol significantly reduces anthralin staining of skin and clothing by encapsulating anthralin in lipid crystals which melt at body temperature. The smooth, non-greasy Micanol formulation is also much more cosmetically acceptable than the currently available petrolatum-based anthralin ointments.

``Micanol is widely used in Scandinavia because it offers the efficacy of anthralin with far fewer problems than with past products. Micanol complements our Cordran Tape, an occlusive topical steroid also used for psoriasis,'' said Frank Killey, Ph.D., Oclassen's Vice President of Research and Development.

Terry Sadler, managing director of Bioglan Limited, the parent company of Bioglan AB, commented: ``Oclassen has built a strong relationship with the U.S. dermatologist and we are confident that they are our best partner for launch of Micanol in the U.S.''

Oclassen will initiate clinical evaluation of Micanol in early 1995, and determine a launch schedule before the end of the year.

Bioglan Pharmaceuticals Limited is a privately held company with operating subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Scandinavia. Bioglan's principal focus is on the research, development and marketing of prescription dermatological products.

Oclassen Pharmaceuticals is a privately held pharmaceutical company founded in 1985. Oclassen develops and markets products for the dermatology and wound care markets. The company began commercial sales in 1991, and currently markets four prescription products and a wound cleansing product line.

CONTACT: Oclassen Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Bill Thomas/Priscilla Myrick, 415/258-4500