Warner-Lambert announces market availability of the first new class of oral contraceptives in 10 years called Estrophasic

Business Wire, March 27, 1997

In addition to contraception, Estrostep, like all oral contraceptives, may also provide several health benefits including: lower incidence of ovarian cysts, lower incidence of pelvic inflammatory disease, reduced likelihood of developing cancer of the ovaries and cancer of the lining of the uterus, more regular periods, lighter menstrual flow and less menstrual discomfort.

However all OCs are also associated with certain side effects. Nausea/vomiting, break-through bleeding and headaches are common. Clinical studies with Estrostep showed that these side effects as well as weight gain each caused fewer then one percent of women to withdraw from therapy.

Oral contraceptives are not appropriate for all patients. The use of oral contraceptives is associated with some serious adverse side effects as well, such as increased risk of myocardial infarction, thromboembolism, stroke, hepatic neoplasia, and gallbladder disease. The risk of serious morbidity and mortality is very small in healthy women without underlying risk factors. It is important to note that oral contraceptives do not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases. Women who use oral contraceptives should be strongly advised not to smoke. Women should discuss the benefits and risks of OCs with their healthcare provider.

Estrostep was cleared for marketing in October, 1996. The patented Estrophasic regimen used on Estrostep was developed by the Parke-Davis division of Warner-Lambert Company, which holds the patent until 2007.

Parke-Davis, a division of Warner-Lambert Company, is devoted to discovering, developing, manufacturing and marketing quality pharmaceutical products. Its central research focus is on heart disease, diabetes, infectious diseases, disorders of the central nervous system and women's healthcare. Warner-Lambert is a worldwide company employing approximately 38,000 people, and along with Parke-Davis is headquartered in Morris Plains, N.J.

CONTACT: Ketchum Public Relations

Stephanie Pehl, 212/448-4309

Michele Newman, 212/448-4426

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Warner Lambert, Media Relations

Stephen J. Mock, 201/540-6696

Jeffrey Baum, 201/540-2145

Leslie Hare, 201/540-4268

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Warner Lambert, Investor Relations

George Shields, 201/540-6916

John Howarth, 201/540-4874