Biosite Incorporated has signed a two-year agreement with Fisher HealthCare, a Fisher Scientific International Inc company, covering distribution of Biosite products. The agreement extends Biosite's existing distribution relationship with Fisher HealthCare through the end of 2005.

The agreement provides Fisher HealthCare with the right to continue distribution of Biosite products into the U.S. hospital market. Additionally, Fisher HealthCare will distribute Biosite's b-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) test for use on Beckman Coulter's immunoassay systems, which is expected to be available in the first quarter of 2004. The BNP test, which aids in the diagnosis of heart failure, the assessment of heart failure severity and the risk stratification of acute coronary syndromes patients, will be sold domestically by both Biosite and Fisher HealthCare.

"We are very pleased to continue our relationship with Fisher HealthCare which has played an important role in the distribution of our Triage products," said Kim Blickenstaff, Biosite president and chief executive officer. "Together, we'll continue our efforts to provide customers with the highest levels of service."