Kleinostheim/Barneveld (NL), 23 January 2004 - Curavisc®, a product for the treatment of osteoarthrosis manufactured fermentatively by IDT GmbH, has now received CE certification and is authorised for sale in the European orthopaedic market. Exclusive distribution rights are held by curasan Benelux B.V. (a wholly owned subsidiary of curasan AG).

Curavisc® is a biological pharmaceutical product which supplements and replaces the body's own joint fluid. This highly viscous 'fluid shock absorber' is injected directly into the joint cavity by the medical practitioner.

The fermentative process used produces a high-purity biological substance. After processing and purification, the result is a product tailor-made for osteoarthrosis treatment (4-week course of treatment). The possibility of allergic reactions, as caused by hyaluronic acids manufactured from ingredients of animal origin, is ruled out.

Doses of hyaluronic acid injected directly into the joint maintain their effect over a long period of time. The course of hyaluronic acid treatment, involving 3-5 injections by a doctor, should therefore be administered once a year. Treatment is recommended from a relatively early stage of osteoarthrosis. Curavisc® is certified for use in all joints, e.g. knee, hip, shoulder or jaw.

According to Millennium Research, the European market for hyaluronic acid products should grow from just over USD 90 million at present to more than USD 150 million in 2008.

Marketing and distribution activities were planned during the last year. As a result, a market launch in selected countries will take place in the first quarter of 2004. The distribution network will be extended further through cooperation partners. With Curavisc®, curasan AG is strengthening its position in the regenerative medicine market.