Acrux (ASX:ACR), the Australian company with patient-preferred technology for delivering drugs across the skin, today announced an agreement with the New York-based Population Council, Inc. The agreement enables Acrux to progress toward commercialisation of a unique contraceptive spray, containing the new-generation contraceptive drug Nestorone.

Under the agreement, Acrux has a worldwide licence from the Population Council to intellectual property covering the use of Nestorone with Acrux's patented metered-dose skin spray delivery technology (MDTS). Acrux will develop and commercialise Nestorone MDTS and has the right to sub-license to commercial partners. In addition to commercial distribution of the product, Acrux (or its sub-licensees) will make Nestorone MDTS available at reduced prices to public sector organisations providing human reproductive health products to disadvantaged people.

Results of a Phase 1 clinical trial, conducted by Acrux last year under a development agreement with the Population Council, showed that a once daily application of Nestorone MDTS provides the level of Nestorone in the blood known to be effective for contraception. A Phase 2 trial, scheduled to start in the second half of 2006, aims to demonstrate that Nestorone MDTS controls ovulation. Acrux will seek commercial partners for the remaining steps in global commercialisation.

"This exciting product will give women a very attractive new option for contraception. It combines our unique technology with the know-how of one of the world's leading developers of reproductive health products," said Acrux CEO Igor Gonda.

"The target features of Nestorone MDTS are: a convenient daily spray onto the arm that is more discreet and less irritating to the skin than a patch, and we believe, will prove to have a better safety profile than other hormonal contraceptives. Market research has shown that many women will prefer the ease and convenience of this method to s
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Contact: Igor Gonda
61-439-811-339
Research Australia
14-Feb-2006

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