Medicis' New Drug Application for Vanos, a Class I corticosteroid for the treatment of plaque-type psoriasis has been approved by US FDA. Vanos is a patented corticosteroid formulation which embodies the heritage of Lidex, the number six most recognized dermatology brand in North America.

The unique formulation of Vanos provides doctors and patients with the convenience of a new, super high potency vehicle in the form of a cream for once or twice daily application. The Class I corticosteroid market in the United States is approximately $329 million. Medicis anticipates launching Vanos to dermatologists in the quarter beginning April 2005, the company release said.

Jonah Shacknai, CEO of Medicis says, "Vanos provides physicians and patients with the established safety of fluocinonide and the potency of a Class I topical corticosteroid. We believe Vanos, which is patent protected until 2021, enhances our therapeutic product portfolio and will be a significant addition to physicians' treatment regime."

VANOS is manufactured by Patheon, Inc. in Canada.

Medicis is one of the leading independent specialty pharmaceutical companies in the United States focusing primarily on the treatment of dermatological and podiatric conditions and aesthetics medicine.