Revenues increase by 25 per cent

Kleinostheim, 6 May 2002 - According to preliminary figures, curasan AG, a German company specialising in regenerative medicine, was able to increase its revenues by 25% in the first quarter of fiscal 2002, to EUR3.5 (2.8 in Q1/2001) million. The consolidated net loss for the period is expected to amount to EUR0.7 (0.4) million. Sales revenues derived from exports grew by 60%, as a result of accelerated market penetration abroad. With regard to full-time staff, the number of employees rose to 116 (76).

Charges in connection with the acquisition of Pro-tec Medizinische Produkte GmbH had not been applicable in the same period of the previous financial year. Supported by the recent launch of styproâ, which is produced by the above-mentioned company, and buoyed by sales revenues generated with this new product, earnings look set to improve in the course of the year.

Thus, the first quarter proved to be extremely positive for curasan AG. In view of the fact that marketing activities for Cerasorb® within the area of orthopaedic applications have only just begun, the group is confident that further growth will be generated in the coming quarters. In the Benelux countries, sales activities regarding Streptase®, a product marketed as part of the distribution agreement with Aventis Behring, have also been very promising.

Having been granted approval for the use of Cerasorb® in the US, curasan AG is currently negotiating with potential sales partners. The company's generic pharmaceuticals launched in the last 12 months have progressed steadily, and together with additional growth from exports as well as the rollout of up to 13 new products (mainly for augmentative surgery) this will contribute towards meeting curasan's targets for the 2002 financial year.

The full Q1/2002 report will be published on 24 May 2002.