Reformulation of treatment

Futura Medical PLC 12 July 2004 Press Release 12 July 2004 Futura Medical announces completion of reformulation work on Erectile Dysfunction treatment Futura Medical plc ('Futura'), the AIM-quoted pharmaceutical drug and medical device group that develops innovative products for the sexual healthcare market, has completed the reformulation of its topically applied treatment for Erectile Dysfunction ('ED'). Initial testing of the revised formulation has demonstrated dramatic improvements in dermal absorption rates, compared with the previous formulation. It maximises local effects in the penis whilst minimising systemic uptake throughout the body. This will reduce the risk of harmful interaction with other centrally acting drugs that may also be taken by the patient, especially PDE5 inhibitors such as ViagraTM, CialisTM or LevitraTM, and improve the chances of an Over The Counter ('OTC') status being granted for MED2002. Greater dermal absorption rates will also deliver the active ingredient more rapidly to the penis, which should further improve the time to onset of an erection. Clinical studies, to be completed later this year, will establish the optimum dose for the new formulation prior to the start of the pivotal Phase III study for MED2002. The reformulation, along with the recently completed angina study and the design and completion of a novel applicator system, represent significant progress for the product. James Barder, Chief Executive of Futura, said: 'Both Futura and our potential distribution partners are delighted by the progress being made on this project and the major value-added benefits of these recent developments.' For further information: Futura Medical plc James Barder, Chief Executive Tel: +44 (0) 1483 845 670 mail to: james.barder@futuramedical.co.uk www.futuramedical.co.uk Media enquiries: Bankside Peter Curtain / Alex Tweed Tel: +44 (0) 20 7444 4140 mailto:alexandra.tweed@bankside.com www.bankside.com Notes to Editors: Futura Medical plc Futura Medical ('Futura' or 'the Company') is an AIM-listed pharmaceutical drug and medical device group developing innovative products for sexual health. The Company is developing a portfolio of products with the intention of licensing their manufacture and distribution to major pharmaceutical and healthcare groups. Several distribution agreements have been signed. Futura's primary focus is on novel Over the Counter ('OTC') products, which provide more available treatments for men and women compared with prescription medicines. These products have particular appeal to men and women who are reluctant to discuss potentially embarrassing sexual matters with their doctors. In June 2003 the Company's first product, MED2001 (now reformulated as MED2002), a rub-on cream for erectile dysfunction (ED), completed a Phase II study, which demonstrated a good safety profile and efficacy trends. The new formulation, MED2002, is likely to enter Phase III trials by early 2005. A trial to assess the safety of the ED treatment in angina patients has been completed. Normal medications taken by angina patients prevent the use of available ED treatments such as ViagraTM, CialisTM and LevitraTM. The Company's second product is CSD500, a latex condom incorporating a gel within the teat which will help healthy men maintain an erection throughout intercourse, so reducing the likelihood of condom slippage. FLD500, which is aimed primarily at female partners of male condom users and will help women maintain lubrication during intercourse, thereby reducing the risk of condom failure, is currently undergoing clinical trials at the Porterbrook Clinic in Sheffield. www.futuramedical.co.uk This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange