Cambridge, MA and Lucerne, Switzerland – January 9, 2006– Biogen Idec (NASDAQ: BIIB) and Fumapharm AG today announced that a Phase II study designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of BG-12, an oral fumarate, in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) met its primary endpoint. Treatment with BG-12 led to a statistically significant reduction in the total number of gadolinium-enhancing brain lesions as measured by MRI with six months of treatment versus placebo. This Phase II multi-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled study enrolled approximately 250 patients at sites in 10 countries in Europe.
About Biogen Idec
Biogen Idec creates new standards of care in oncology, neurology and immunology. As a global leader in the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of novel therapies, Biogen Idec transforms scientific discoveries into advances in human healthcare. For press releases and additional information about the company, please visit www.biogenidec.com .
About Fumapharm AG
Fumapharm has licensed exclusive worldwide rights to develop and market BG-12 to Biogen Idec. Fumapharm is a privately held pharmaceutical company headquartered in Lucerne, Switzerland. For more information, please visit www.fumapharm.ch .
For more information contact:
MEDIA CONTACT:
Amy Brockelman
Senior Manager, Public Affairs
Biogen Idec
Tel: (617) 914-6524
INVESTMENT COMMUNITY CONTACT:
Oscar Velastegui
Senior Director, Investor Relations
Biogen Idec
(617) 679-2812