Pfizer Statement on Zantac 75.

Business Editors/Health/Medical Writers

MORRIS PLAINS, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 21, 2003

Pfizer responded to the approval of Prilosec for OTC use today stating that the difference between Zantac 75 and Prilosec OTC is simple: Zantac 75 relieves heartburn fast. Prilosec OTC doesn't. Prilosec OTC has to be taken continuously for two weeks and can take one to four days for full effect.

"In my experience, consumers tend to resist continuous, daily dosing of OTC medicines where treating the onset of symptoms is readily available," said Mark Gelbert, vice-president for gastrointestinal R&D at Pfizer Consumer Healthcare. "The typical OTC consumer who suffers from heartburn is looking for immediate relief. When used as directed, Zantac 75 provides effective relief in 30- 45 minutes, not days. With Zantac 75, heartburn sufferers can treat their heartburn symptoms right when they need to."

Fast relief is especially important at night, when heartburn can be at its worst. Nighttime heartburn affects approximately 50 million people nationwide and can lead to sleep deprivation and other complications. When someone wakes up in the middle of the night with heartburn, they want fast relief so they can get back to sleep and get a good night's rest. Zantac 75 relieves heartburn in 30 - 45 minutes.

"As one of the leaders in bringing over-the-counter heartburn medicines to consumers, we welcome the expansion of choices on the OTC market, and are confident that Zantac 75 will remain a top choice for millions of consumers," added Gelbert.

Zantac 75 is marketed by the consumer healthcare division of Pfizer Inc. Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures and markets leading prescription medicines, for humans and animals, and many of the world's best-known over-the-counter brands.