Bayer will vigorously defend itself against Kogenate patent infringement suit filed by Novartis

Bayer will vigorously defend itself against Kogenate patent infringement suit filed by Novartis

Berlin, February 20, 2008 – Bayer confirms that the company has received a joint complaint filed by Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics Inc. and Novo Nordisc A/S in the US. The plaintiffs allege that, through production and distribution of the recombinant factor VIII product Kogenate®, the company infringes a compound patent issued in 2006. Essentially, the plaintiffs claim patent infringement and compensation.
Bayer will vigorously defend itself against the complaint. Bayer is of the opinion not to infringe on any valid patent claim of Novartis.

About Bayer HealthCare
The Bayer Group is a global enterprise with core competencies in the fields of health care, nutrition and high-tech materials. Bayer HealthCare, a subsidiary of Bayer AG, is one of the world’s leading, innovative companies in the healthcare and medical products industry and is based in Leverkusen, Germany. The company combines the global activities of the Animal Health, Consumer Care, Diabetes Care and Pharmaceuticals divisions. The pharmaceuticals business operates under the name Bayer Schering Pharma AG. Bayer HealthCare’s aim is to discover and manufacture products that will improve human and animal health worldwide. Find more information at www.bayerhealthcare.com.

Bayer Schering Pharma is a worldwide leading specialty pharmaceutical company. Its research and business activities are focused on the following areas: Diagnostic Imaging, Hematology/Cardiology, Oncology, Primary Care, Specialized Therapeutics and Women's Healthcare. With innovative products, Bayer Schering Pharma aims for leading positions in specialized markets worldwide. Using new ideas, Bayer Schering Pharma aims to make a contribution to medical progress and strives to improve the quality of life. Find more information at www.bayerscheringpharma.de.


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