Basel, July 1, 2019 - Novartis today announced that it has completed its acquisition of Xiidra® (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5%, the first and only prescription treatment approved to treat both signs and symptoms of dry eye by inhibiting inflammation caused by the disease[1].

Marie-France Tschudin, President, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, said: "This deal delivers on our ongoing commitment to reimagine medicine for patients suffering from a variety of eye diseases, while also laying critical groundwork for future, potential front-of-the-eye pipeline products we have in development."

About Xiidra
Xiidra is a prescription eye drop solution designed to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease[1]. It is dosed twice per day, approximately 12 hours apart, in each eye[1]. Xiidra is approved to treat signs and symptoms of dry eye disease in multiple markets including the US, Canada and Australia. It is under regulatory review in a number of additional markets.

Approximately 1000 patients were treated with Xiidra in four vehicle-controlled 12-week trials[1]. Each of the four studies assessed the effect of Xiidra on both the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease at baseline, week two, six and 12[1].

In three of the four studies, a larger reduction in the eye dryness score (EDS) was observed with Xiidra at six and 12 weeks[1]. In two of the four studies, an improvement in EDS was seen with Xiidra at two weeks[1]. At week 12, a larger reduction in inferior corneal staining score (ICSS) favoring Xiidra was observed in three of the four studies[1]. The most common adverse reactions reported in 5 to 25 percent of patients were instillation site irritation, altered taste sensation (dysgeusia) and reduced visual acuity[1].

Disclaimer
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by words such as "bolstering," "potential," "milestone," "ongoing," "commitment," "future," "pipeline," or similar etc. etc..
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References
[1] FDA. Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution). Prescribing information. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/208073s000lbl.pdf. Accessed June 20, 2019.

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