SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 26, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Medicis (NYSE:MRX) today announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has advised the Company that U.S. Patent No. 7,541,347 directed to the use of SOLODYN(R) in 90mg tablet form will issue on June 2, 2009, and that U.S. Patent No. 7,544,373 directed to SOLODYN(R) in 90mg tablet form will issue on June 9, 2009. The new patents include subject matter covering methods of using the 90mg controlled-release oral dosage form of minocycline to treat acne and the composition of the 90mg dosage form. Both patents will expire in 2027. For the week ending May 8, 2009, the 90mg strength represented over 62% of total SOLODYN(R) prescriptions.(1)
"We are pleased to announce two new patents for SOLODYN(R)," said Jonah Shacknai, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Medicis. "We believe SOLODYN(R) has unique attributes which distinguish it from other forms of minocycline. These new patents represent another important element in maintaining the SOLODYN(R) franchise. We believe these issued patent claims will enhance the intellectual property protection of our SOLODYN(R) brand."
SOLODYN(R) has another issued patent, U.S. Patent No. 5,908,838, which expires in 2018, related to the use of the SOLODYN(R) unique dissolution rate. The Company has a number of U.S. patent applications associated with SOLODYN(R) on file at the USPTO.
About SOLODYN(R) Extended Release Tablets
Launched to dermatologists in July 2006 after approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on May 8, 2006, SOLODYN(R) is the only branded oral minocycline approved for once daily dosage in the treatment of inflammatory lesions of non-nodular moderate to severe acne vulgaris in patients 12 years of age and older. SOLODYN(R) is the first approved minocycline in extended release tablet form. SOLODYN(R) is lipid soluble, and its mode of action occurs in the skin and sebum. SOLODYN(R) is available by prescription in 45mg, 90mg and 135mg extended release tablet dosages.
About Medicis
Medicis is the leading independent specialty pharmaceutical company in the United States focusing primarily on the treatment of dermatological and aesthetic conditions. The Company is dedicated to helping patients attain a healthy and youthful appearance and self-image. Medicis has leading branded prescription products in a number of therapeutic and aesthetic categories.
