BOSTON, MA, May 1, 2012 – MedImmune, the global biologics arm of AstraZeneca, announced results from a new retrospective database cohort study of 8,443 high-risk infants receiving palivizumab in Medicaid programs across 12 states.  Approximately 67% of infants were non-compliant with palivizumab.

Non-compliance with the FDA-approved dosing of Synagis® (palivizumab), defined as not receiving at least 5 doses or having dosing gaps, significantly increased likelihood of hospitalization from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) among high-risk infants in a Medicaid population. The percentage of RSV-related hospitalization (RSV-H) was significantly higher among non-compliant vs. compliant infants (12.0% vs. 7.4%, P<0.001) respectively.^1-6 These data were presented today at the 2012 Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) Annual Meeting in Boston.

“These results suggest that inconsistent dosing or dosing less than approved in the FDA label for Synagis is correlated to the risk of RSV hospitalization for high-risk infants,” said Parthiv Mahadevia, MD, MPH, senior health economist and outcomes researcher at MedImmune.

The FDA-approved labeling for Synagis, Section 2.1 – Dosing Information, states, “The efficacy of Synagis at doses less than 15 mg/kg, or of dosing less frequently than monthly throughout the RSV season, has not been established.”  In these analyses, the population under study was infants born with prematurity (34 weeks gestational age or less), congenital heart disease (CHD) or chronic lung disease of prematurity. 

“These infants are recommended to receive palivizumab as per the product’s label and our findings demonstrate the need for full protection against RSV throughout the season,” said Mahadevia. 

Also presented at PAS, were two additional sub-analyses of the data:

• Non-Compliance with Palivizumab Among Racial Minorities in A Medicaid Population, Tuesday May1, 10:00 AM (Abstract 184)
• Factors Associated with Non-Compliance with Palivizumab Among Medicaid Infants, Saturday April 28 , 1:00 PM (Abstract 287)

RSV is the most common respiratory infection in infancy; approximately one-half of all infants are infected with RSV during the first year of life, and nearly all children have been infected at least once by the time they reach their second birthday.^7,8

In most children, RSV presents mild symptoms similar to the common cold and doesn’t require medical attention.

However, certain infants—particularly premature infants and babies with congenital heart disease (CHD) and chronic lung disease (CLD) of prematurity—are at increased risk of developing a serious infection from RSV, often requiring hospitalization.^9,10

Serious RSV infection is the leading cause of infant hospitalization in the U.S.,^{11, 12} and is the cause of one of every 13 pediatrician visits and one of every 38 emergency room trips.¹³

About the Studies

Compliance with Synagis dosing was evaluated across six RSV seasons (2003-2009), with RSV season typically running from November through March. Babies were required to have been discharged between May 1 and September 30 and to have received one or more doses of Synagis during their first RSV season (October through April) with no gaps of > 35 days between any dose. Inclusion criteria were defined as infants born with prematurity (34 weeks gestational age or less), congenital heart disease (CHD), or chronic lung disease of prematurity (CLDP).

Important Safety Information

What is Synagis® (palivizumab)?

Synagis is a prescription medication that is used to help prevent a serious lung disease caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children at high risk for severe lung disease from RSV.

Who should not receive Synagis?

Children should not receive Synagis if they have ever had a severe allergic reaction to it. Signs and symptoms of a severe allergic reaction could include: itchy rash; swelling of the face; difficulty swallowing; difficulty breathing; bluish color of the skin; muscle weakness or floppiness; a drop in blood pressure and/or unresponsiveness. If your child has any of these signs or symptoms of a severe allergic reaction after getting Synagis, be sure to tell your child’s healthcare provider or get medical help right away.

How is Synagis given?

Synagis is given as a shot, usually in the thigh muscle, each month during the RSV season. Your child should receive their first Synagis shot before the RSV season starts to help protect them before RSV becomes active. When RSV is most active, your child will need to receive Synagis shots every 28-30 days to help protect your child from severe RSV disease for about a month. Your child should continue to receive monthly shots of Synagis until the end of RSV season. Your child may still get severe RSV disease after receiving Synagis. If your child has an RSV infection, they should continue to get their monthly shots throughout the season.

The efficacy of Synagis shots given less than monthly throughout the RSV season has not been established.

What are the side effects of Synagis?

Possible, serious side effects include severe allergic reaction which may occur after any dose of Synagis. Such reactions may be life-threatening or cause death. Unusual bruising and/or groups of tiny red spots on the skin have also been reported.

Common side effects of Synagis include fever and rash. Other possible side effects include skin reactions around the area where the shot was given (like redness, swelling, warmth or discomfort).

Please see accompanying full prescribing information, including patient information at http://www.synagis.com.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm for AstraZeneca PLC, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at http://www.medimmune.com/

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1. Non-Compliance with Palivizumab and Increased Risk of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Hospitalization Among a Medicaid Population. Krilov, Weiner, Wade, Smith, et. al. SUNY Stony Brook School of Medicine,Mineloa,NY,SUNYUpdateMedicalUniversity,Syracuse,NY.
2. Sigurs N et al.  Am J Crit Care Med.   2000; 161:1501-1507.
3. Stein RT et al. The Lancet. 1999; 354:541-545.
4. Sampalis JS. Morbidity and mortality after RSV-associated hospitalizations among premature Canadian infants. J Pediatr. 2003: 143:S150-S156.
5. Non-Compliance with Palivizumab Among Racial Minorities in a Medicaid Population. Masaquel, Krilov, Wade, Smith et. Al. MedImmune, Gaithersburg, MD, SUNY Stony Brook School of Medicine, Mineola, NY.
6. Factors associated with Non-Compliance with Palivizumab among Medicaid infants. Masaquel, Krilov, Wade, Smith, et. al. MedImmune, Gathersburg, MD, SUNY Stony Brook School of Medicine, Mineloa, NY.
7. Glezen WP, et al. AJDC. 1986; 140: 543 – 546.
8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV): frequently asked questions. http://www.cdc.gov/rsv/about/faq.html. Accessed September 26, 2011.
9. Yeung CY, Hobbs JR. Serum-gamma-G-globulin levels in normal premature, post-mature and “small for dates”newborn babies. Lancet.1968;7557:11 67-11 70.
10. Langston C, Kida K, Reed M, Thurlbeck WM.  Human lung growth in late gestation and in the neonate.  Am Rev Respir Dis. 1984;129:607-613
    1. Leader S, Kohlhase K. Ped Infec Dis J. 2002;21:629-632.
    2. Shay DK, Holman RC, Newman RD, et al. JAMA. 1999;282:1440-1446.
    3. Hall CB, Weinberg GA, Iwane MK, et al. N Engl J Med. 2009;360:588-598

Brodalumab (AMG 827) Phase 3 Trial Planned in 2012

AstraZeneca and Amgen today announced an agreement to jointly develop and commercialise five monoclonal antibodies from Amgen’s clinical inflammation portfolio: AMG 139, AMG 157, AMG 181, AMG 557 and brodalumab (AMG 827).

The companies believe all the molecules have novel profiles and offer the potential to deliver important treatments across multiple indications in inflammatory diseases. The collaboration will provide Amgen with additional resources to optimally progress its portfolio, and Amgen will benefit from the strong respiratory, inflammation and asthma development expertise of MedImmune, AstraZeneca’s biologics arm. The collaboration will also capitalise on AstraZeneca’s global commercial reach in respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases. The agreement does not include certain territories previously partnered by Amgen for brodalumab with Kyowa Hakko Kirin and AMG 557 with Takeda.

Under the terms of the agreement, AstraZeneca will make a one-time $50 million upfront payment and the companies will share both costs and profits.  Based on current plans, approximately 65 percent of costs for the 2012-2014 period will be funded by AstraZeneca. Thereafter, the companies will split costs equally. Amgen will book sales globally and will retain a low single-digit royalty for brodalumab and a mid single-digit royalty for the rest of the portfolio after which the companies will share profits equally.

AstraZeneca will lead the development and commercialisation strategy of AMG 139, 157 and 181, while Amgen will lead the development and commercialisation strategy of brodalumab and AMG 557. Each development and commercialisation lead will be under the oversight of joint governing bodies. For brodalumab, commercial promotion will be split. Amgen will promote in dermatology indications in the US and Canada, and in rheumatology indications in US, Canada and Europe. AstraZeneca will promote in respiratory and, initially, in dermatology indications of brodalumab across all territories outside of the US, Canada and those markets where Amgen has existing partnerships.  Allocation of promotion rights for other territories, indications and molecules will be agreed later between the companies.

“We are delighted to join forces with Amgen in developing and commercialising these novel clinical-stage assets that add value to our pipeline and build on our expertise in biologics. This creative collaboration will make the most of both companies’ respective capabilities, including AstraZeneca’s extensive global reach, to help bring these potentially innovative treatment options for a variety of respiratory and inflammatory diseases to patients around the world,” said David Brennan, Chief Executive Officer, AstraZeneca.

“We are very excited at the prospect of collaborating with a well-respected organisation like AstraZeneca to advance our inflammation pipeline,” said Kevin Sharer, Chairman and CEO at Amgen. “We believe this collaboration has the potential to bring more therapies to patients sooner, across more geographic areas. We are impressed with AstraZeneca’s extensive experience in developing and launching products in the respiratory and gastroenterology areas, and believe this collaboration is an opportunity to work with a partner that has leading regulatory and commercial expertise in inflammation indications.” 

NOTES TO EDITORS

About the inflammation portfolio included in the agreement

Under the agreement, the companies will jointly develop and commercialise the following five monoclonal antibodies (immunoglobin proteins that have been synthesized using recombinant DNA technology) from Amgen’s clinical-stage portfolio:

• ·         Brodalumab (AMG 827) is a human monoclonal antibody that binds to and blocks signaling via the IL-17 receptor. Brodalumab is currently being investigated for the treatment of psoriasis (completed Phase 2 and planned Phase 3), psoriatic arthritis (Phase 2) and asthma (Phase 2).
• ·         AMG 139 is a human monoclonal antibody that neutralises IL-23 interaction with its receptor while sparing IL-12. It is being investigated as a treatment for a variety of inflammatory disorders. AMG 139 is being investigated in Phase 1 for Crohn’s disease, with lifecycle possibilities in psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions.
• ·         AMG 181 is a human monoclonal antibody to alpha4/beta7 that blocks binding to MAdCAM-1. It is being investigated in Phase 1b trials for the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
• ·         AMG 557 is a human monoclonal antibody that binds to B7 related protein (B7RP-1). It is being investigated in Phase 1b for its utility in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus.
• AMG 157 is a human monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) with the TSLP receptor. AMG 157 is being investigated in Phase 1b trials for its potential as a treatment for asthma.

About Amgen

Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures, and delivers innovative human therapeutics. A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen was one of the first companies to realize the new science’s promise by bringing safe and effective medicines from lab, to manufacturing plant, to patient. Amgen therapeutics have changed the practice of medicine, helping millions of people around the world in the fight against cancer, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, bone disease, and other serious illnesses. With a deep and broad pipeline of potential new medicines, Amgen remains committed to advancing science to dramatically improve people’s lives. To learn more about our pioneering science and our vital medicines, visit www.amgen.com. Follow us on www.twitter.com/amgen.

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business with a primary focus on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuroscience, respiratory and inflammation, oncology and infectious disease. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. For more information please visit: www.astrazeneca.com.

MedImmune is presenting new research on pediatric influenza vaccination and the safety and efficacy of live attenuated influenza vaccine. This research reinforces MedImmune’s commitment to influenza prevention. With the conference being held online for the first time, MedImmune will share its findings through a widely accessible format to a broader medical audience.

“We believe the data being presented at NIC Online will help enhance the medical community’s understanding of influenza vaccine safety and efficacy and help identify ways to potentially increaseU.S.influenza vaccination rates,” said Chris Ambrose, M.D., MedImmune’s Senior Director of Medical & Scientific Affairs. 

For more information on this virtual conference and how to get access, visit the NIC web site: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/nic/default.htm. The conference agenda is available at http://cdc.confex.com/cdc/nic2012/webprogram/meeting.html.

MedImmune abstracts to be presented at NIC Online include:

•           A Post-licensure Evaluation of the Safety of Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV) in Children 2 to 4 Years of Age. Baxter R, et al. March 26, 2012. Online Poster Presentation

•           A Post-licensure Evaluation of the Safety of Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV) inU.S.Children 5 to 17 Years of Age. Baxter R, et al. March 26, 2012. Online Poster Presentation  

•           Does Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV) Reduce All-Cause Acute Otitis Media in Children? Heikkenin T, et al. March 26, 2012. Online Poster Presentation

•           Do Influenza Illness Symptoms Differ Among Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Children? Ambrose CS, et al. March 26, 2012. Online Poster Presentation

•           Improved Timing of Availability and Administration of Influenza Vaccine Through the Vaccines for Children Program From 2007 to 2011. Ambrose CS, et al. March 26, 2012. Online Poster Presentation

•           Interoffice Variability in the Delivery of Influenza Vaccine by US Pediatric Offices. Toback SL, et al. March 26, 2012. Online Poster Presentation

•           Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV) in Children 2 Through 17 Years of Age. Ambrose CS, et al. March 26, 2012. Online Poster Presentation 

•           Pediatric Influenza Vaccination by Office-Based Pediatricians and Family Physicians During the 2010–2011 Influenza Season. Toback SL, et al. March 26, 2012. Online Poster Presentation

•           Smaller Pediatric Offices Have Higher In-Office Influenza Vaccination Rates. Toback SL, et al. March 26, 2012. Online Poster Presentation

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm for AstraZeneca PLC, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at http://www.medimmune.com/ 

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All other currently available licensed seasonal influenza vaccines are trivalent, containing three strains [two strains of type A influenza (A/H1N1 and A/H3N2) and one B lineage strain].  FluMist Quadrivalent contains four strains (two type A strains and two type B lineages) to help provide broad protection against circulating influenza A and B.

In recent years, influenza B strains from two different lineages (B/Yamagata and B/Victoria) have circulated.  The quadrivalent vaccine includes strains from both lineages, helping provide protection against both B lineages.  The first of its kind approval for FluMist Quadrivalent reinforces MedImmune’s commitment to innovation within the infectious disease area.

“According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), since the 2001-2002 season, influenza B viruses from both lineages have co-circulated in the USA,” said Stan Block, MD, FAAP, Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine in Lexingtonand at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.  “In the United States, in 5-of-the-10 influenza seasons between 2001 and 2011, the predominant circulating influenza B lineage was different from the one selected for inclusion in the trivalent vaccines.  The CDC has estimated that between 2001 and 2009, 2.7 million fewer Americans would have gotten the flu if all influenza vaccines had been quadrivalent.[1]”

In pivotal clinical studies conducted in children and adults 2-49 years of age, FluMist Quadrivalent was compared to two trivalent formulations of MedImmune’s licensed seasonal influenza vaccine, FluMist (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal).

FluMist Quadrivalent had a safety profile generally comparable to the trivalent FluMist formulations, and immunogenicity to individual vaccine strains was comparable in trivalent and quadrivalent formulations.  Further, the addition of the second B strain did not result in immune interference to other strains included in the vaccine.

“This is the first quadrivalent influenza vaccine approved and MedImmune is pleased to be able to take the next steps in making this product available to the public. We believe that the inclusion of an additional B strain in an annual influenza vaccine could provide a direct health benefit to individual vaccine recipients in the event that the correct B lineage either is not selected for inclusion in a trivalent vaccine, or if both lineages co-circulate,” said Bahija Jallal, MedImmune’s executive vice president of Research and Development.

IMPORTANT SAFETY AND ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

What is FluMist® Quadrivalent (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal)?

FluMist Quadrivalent is a vaccine that is sprayed into the nose to help protect against influenza.  It can be used in children, adolescents, and adults ages 2 through 49.  FluMist Quadrivalent is similar to MedImmune’s trivalent Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal (FluMist), except FluMist Quadrivalent provides protection against an additional influenza strain. FluMist Quadrivalent may not prevent influenza in everyone who gets vaccinated.

Who should not get FluMist Quadrivalent?

You should not get FluMist Quadrivalent if you have a severe allergy to eggs, gentamicin, gelatin, or arginine; have ever had a life-threatening reaction to influenza vaccinations; or are 2 through 17 years old and take aspirin or medicines containing aspirin – children or adolescents should not be given aspirin for 4 weeks after getting FluMist or FluMist Quadrivalent unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.

Children under 2 years old have an increased risk of wheezing (difficulty with breathing) after getting FluMist Quadrivalent.

Who may not be able to get FluMist Quadrivalent?

Tell your healthcare provider if you or your child are currently wheezing; have a history of wheezing if under 5 years old; have had Guillain-Barré syndrome; have a weakened immune system or live with someone who has a severely weakened immune system; have problems with your heart, kidneys, or lungs; have diabetes; are pregnant or nursing; or are taking Tamiflu®, Relenza®, amantadine, or rimantadine.

Your healthcare provider will decide if FluMist Quadrivalent is right for you or your child.

What are the most common side effects of FluMist Quadrivalent?

The most common side effects are runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and fever over 100F.

Please see accompanying complete Product Information, including Patient Information

at http://www.medimmune.com/pdf/products/flumistquadrivalent_pi.pdf

For more information, please visit http://www.flumistquadrivalent.com/

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm for AstraZeneca PLC, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at http://www.medimmune.com/

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AstraZeneca today announced that it has committed an additional $100 million to its venture capital arm,MedImmune Ventures, increasing the total capital under management to $400 million. MedImmune Ventures is an evergreen venture capital fund that focuses on equity investments in private companies in the areas of biopharmaceuticals, medical and healthcare technology.

“With the additional funding from AstraZeneca, we look forward to expanding our investment activities globally and across therapy areas. We believe that in the current financial environment, there is a growing role for corporate venture capital funds such as MedImmune Ventures,” said Ron Laufer, Senior Managing Director, MedImmune Ventures.

Simon Lowth, Chief Financial Officer, AstraZeneca said: “We continue to support MedImmune Ventures strategy that combines commitment to advance science and technology in the life science industry while generating financial returns expected of venture capital funds.”

Additionally, AstraZeneca also announced that MedImmune Ventures has co-led the second round of financing for NeuProtect Pty Ltd, an Australian life science company specialised in the reduction of cardiac remodelling post myocardial infarction. Ron Laufer said: “We are delighted to co-lead with Starfish Ventures a new round of financing for NeuProtect Pty Ltd, our first investment in an Australian company.”

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 NOTES TO EDITORS

About MedImmune Ventures

As the wholly-owned venture capital arm of AstraZeneca, MedImmune Ventures invests in private companies that develop small and large molecules, vaccines, pharmaceutical technologies and platforms. MedImmune Ventures also seeks investments in medical devices, diagnostics, imaging and healthcare IT related to the discovery, development and commercialisation of pharmaceutical products.  Since 2009, MedImmune Ventures has been evergreen, allocating proceeds of liquidated investments towards future investment in new portfolio companies.  For more information, visit www.medimmuneventures.com

About NeuProtect

NeuProtect Pty Ltd is a life sciences start-up company based inMelbourne,Australia.  NeuProtect is developing proprietary cardioprotectant and neuroprotectant small molecules to reduce tissue damage following a heart attack or stroke.  Its lead compound is presently in preclinical development.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm of AstraZeneca, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit www.medimmune.com

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business with a primary focus on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines for gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuroscience, respiratory and inflammation, oncology and infectious disease. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.astrazeneca.com

CONTACTS

Media Enquiries

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Investor Enquiries UK

Karl Hård                                     +44 20 7604 8123 mob: +44 7789 654364

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Investor Enquiries US

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GAITHERSBURG, MD, November 8, 2011 – MedImmune, the global biologics arm of AstraZeneca, today announced that the company’s expansion project at its Frederick, Md., Manufacturing Center (FMC) won the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering’s overall 2011 Facility of the Year Award.  This is the first time MedImmune has won this prestigious internationally renowned accolade.    

The annual Facility of the Year Awards (FOYA), sponsored by the ISPE, INTERPHEX and Pharmaceutical Processing magazine, recognizes state-of-the-art projects utilizing new, innovative technologies to improve the quality of products, reduce the cost of producing high-quality medicines, and demonstrate advances in project delivery.

“MedImmune is honored to receive the overall 2011 FOYA for expanding our Frederick Manufacturing Center, which is a testament to the dedication and diligence of our team,” said Doug Scott, Vice President of Engineering at MedImmune. “We achieved our goals by implementing ordinary tools in extraordinary ways, including our innovative approach to startup and operator training, our unique process for offline validation, and our robust project management processes.”

The new facility will initially house 337,000 square feet of administrative, production, warehouse, laboratory, and utility space. To accommodate future growth, MedImmune designed internal expansion capabilities of an additional 100,000 square feet of production space, creating a flexible, large-scale mammalian cell culture-based production facility. The FMC Expansion Project was selected as the overall FOYA winner from a group of seven state-of-the-art projects in four countries. The FMC expansion project was previously honored at INTERPHEX 2011 as a FOYA category winner for project execution.  

The FOYA judging panel, consisting of global senior-level biopharmaceutical executives from all areas of the industry, recognized the FMC Expansion Project for:

• Excellent safety record and aggressive timeline;
• Continued efforts to assist the workforce through the expansion project;
• Flexibility at a large scale requiring MedImmune to overlap and accelerate project phases increasing project risk; and
• The use of military training methodology that resulted in the successful shakedown runs performed simultaneously with ongoing construction efforts.

For the past 12 years, MedImmune’s FMC has manufactured a monoclonal antibody to help prevent an infectious disease.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm for AstraZeneca PLC, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com.

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business with a primary focus on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines for gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuroscience, respiratory and inflammation, oncology and infectious disease. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. For more information please visit: www.astrazeneca.com.

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Alexandra Avgustinova from The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK was awarded first prize of £2,000 for her research entitled Characterization of the Tumor-Fibroblast Cross-talk in a Mouse Model of Disease Progression. “For any young scientist, the opportunity to share scientific work is extremely rewarding. Beyond that, having my work acclaimed by a panel of experts is a great honor indeed,” commented Alexandra Avgustinova. “Receiving this award fuels my hope and desire to see my research in practical application in the future. I would like to thank The Institute of Cancer Research for enabling me to conduct this research and MedImmune for the recognition.”

Second and third prizes of £1,000 and £500 were awarded to Metamia Ciampricotti from The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Holly Barker from The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK, respectively.

Congratulating the winners, Dr Thorsten Hagemann, Clinical Senior Lecturer, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, UK and one of the competition’s judges said, “It is extremely encouraging to see the quality of scientific work being produced by these young scientists. Initiatives such as this competition are an essential part of our fight against cancer – highlighting new research, helping us to discover fresh scientific talent and new therapeutic solutions to human disease. Alexandra’s research is cutting edge science which will have an immediate impact on cancer treatment”.

“MedImmune is committed to fostering the development of the next generation of leading scientists focused on improving human health. This competition provides us with the opportunity to highlight and reward the innovative work of talented scientists, which in the current economic climate we feel is especially important,” said Matthew McCourt, Director of Biology, Oncology at MedImmune. “We congratulate all ten finalists for being selected in this tough, competitive programme and feel privileged to be able to provide some recognition for their dedication.”

The competition was open to graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in Europe with ten finalists shortlisted to present their research to an expert panel of judges including Dr Thorsten Hagemann, Clinical Senior Lecturer, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, UK, Dr Christian Blank, Group Leader, Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and a senior executive from both MedImmune and AstraZeneca. The focus of the competition – tumor microenvironments – reflects the research interests of MedImmune’s UK-based Oncology Department in Cambridge. The three winners were announced at the awards ceremony in Cambridge University’s prestigious Downing College following evaluation of their presentations on the basis of scientific merit, innovation and delivery.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm of AstraZeneca plc. (LSE: AZN.L, NYSE: AZN) has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at http://www.medimmune.com.

The pivotal pediatric clinical study compared Q/LAIV to two trivalent formulations of MedImmune’s licensed seasonal influenza vaccine, FluMist^® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal) and met its primary endpoint.

Currently licensed seasonal influenza vaccines are trivalent, containing three strains (two strains of type A influenza,A/H1N1 and A/H3N2, and one B lineage strain).  However, as influenza B strains from 2 different lineages have circulated in recent years (B/Yamagata and B/Victoria), the quadrivalent vaccine contains four strains: A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B strains from both of the B lineages.  The quadrivalent vaccine is designed to offer protection against a broader range of B strains, and its development demonstrates MedImmune’s commitment to innovation within the infectious disease area.

Data from the pediatric Phase 3 study were included in the supplemental Biologics License Application (sBLA) for a quadrivalent (four-strain) version of FluMist^® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal). The company submitted the sBLA early in the second quarter of this year.

This abstract will be available for viewing in the exhibit hall in the exhibit Hall B-1 from 12:15 until 2:15 on Friday, October 21, 2011 at the Boston Convention andExhibitionCenter.

Additional information about the 2011 IDSA conference can be found at http://www.idsa2011.org/

Important Safety and Eligibility Information for FluMist

What is FluMist^®?

FluMist is the first and only nasal spray flu vaccine approved in the United Statesto help prevent influenza and is indicated for the active immunization of eligible individuals 2 to 49 years of age against influenza disease caused by influenza virus subtypes A and B contained in the vaccine.  

Who may not be able to get FluMist?

You should not get FluMist if you: are allergic to eggs, gentamicin, gelatin, or arginine; have ever had a life-threatening reaction to influenza vaccinations; or are 2 through 17 years old and take aspirin or medicines containing aspirin–children or adolescents should not be given aspirin for 4 weeks after getting FluMist unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.

Children under 2 years old should not get FluMist because there is a chance they may wheeze (have difficulty with breathing) after getting FluMist.

Tell your healthcare provider if you: are currently wheezing; have a history of wheezing if under 5 years old; have had Guillain-Barré syndrome; have a weakened immune system or live with someone who has a severely weakened immune system; have problems with your heart, kidneys, or lungs; have diabetes; are pregnant or nursing; or are taking Tamiflu®, Relenza®, amantadine, or rimantadine.

They will decide if FluMist is right for you.

What are the most common side effects of FluMist?

The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose; sore throat; and fever over 100 degrees F.

Please see accompanying complete product information, including patient informationat www.medimmune.com.

For more information, please visit www.FluMist.com.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm for AstraZeneca PLC, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com. 

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of Annual Flu Vaccination and Knowing Vaccine Options

GAITHERSBURG, MD (Oct. 13, 2011) – Families are busy enough during the back-to-school season – new class schedules, countless extracurricular activities, and daily homework assignments – without having to worry about the flu. To help raise awareness about the importance of annual influenza vaccination as the recommended best defense against the disease, MedImmune, along with soccer legend and mom Brandi Chastain, today launched the second year of “When Will You Pick?,” a national education campaign that encourages all eligible family members this flu season to “Don’t Wait to Vaccinate!”

“My goal every year is to not to wait to vaccinate. As a mom, keeping my family healthy and active is at the top of my to-do list, so we make sure to get our flu vaccine as soon as possible every year,” Chastain said. “Make an appointment today with your doctor to help keep yourself and your eligible family members protected. Also, if your children’s school offers an in-school vaccination program, be sure to fill out and return consent forms so they can get vaccinated at school.” 

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all eligible Americans 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine, beginning as soon as the vaccine is available each year. Even though the 2011-2012 flu vaccine contains the same three strains as last year, the CDC encourages people to get vaccinated each year, regardless of whether the viruses in the vaccine have changed or not since the previous season because immunity can wane over time.

Seasonal flu vaccines, including the nasal spray FluMist^® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal), started shipping in August of this year. MedImmune expects to provide approximately 15 to 16 million doses of FluMist for the 2011-2012 influenza season.

FluMist is a nasal spray flu vaccine for eligible kids and adults 2- 49 years old. It starts fighting the flu where it usually starts — the nose. The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and fever over 100°F.

Parents and families can learn more about the importance of flu vaccination by visiting the campaign’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/dontwaitvaccinate, which offers tips to help stay healthy throughout the flu season, a quiz to test influenza knowledge, and one-of-a-kind campaign photos and videos featuring Chastain. Additionally, for everyone who “likes” the page, $1 (up to $50,000) will be donated by MedImmune to help support the nationwide flu vaccination education efforts of the non-profit organization, Families Fighting Flu. The campaign will also reach families through local events at school-located vaccination clinics across the country throughout the season, including Atlanta, Minneapolis, and Houston.

“Vaccination is the best defense we have against influenza. Families should make vaccination a priority every year,” said Dr. Anat Feingold, M.D., a pediatric infectious disease expert and mother of three. “Individuals should also take everyday steps to help prevent the spread of germs, such as washing their hands and covering their coughs, but vaccination is the most important protection step one can take.” 

An average of 5-20 percent of the U.S.population becomes ill with the flu each year, which can result in significant complications. Children between the ages of 2 to 17 are twice as likely to get the flu as adults and can spread the flu to family members. Not every flu vaccine option is right for everyone, so parents are recommended to talk to their doctor about which option is best for each eligible family member.

“MedImmune is committed to supporting the annual U.S. influenza vaccination campaign, starting as early as possible each year,” said Chris Ambrose, M.D., Senior Director of Medical & Scientific Affairs. “We are also thrilled to team-up with Brandi Chastain again this year to help share important messages about flu prevention with families across the country.”

Important Safety and Eligibility Information 

What is FluMist® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal)?

FluMist is a vaccine that is sprayed into the nose to help protect against influenza. It can be used in children, adolescents, and adults ages 2 through 49. FluMist may not prevent influenza in everyone who gets vaccinated.

Who should not get FluMist?

You should not get FluMist if you: are allergic to eggs, gentamicin, gelatin, or arginine; have ever had a life-threatening reaction to influenza vaccinations; or are 2 through 17 years old and take aspirin or medicines containing aspirin–children or adolescents should not be given aspirin for 4 weeks after getting FluMist unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise. 

Children under 2 years old should not get FluMist because there is a chance they may wheeze (have difficulty with breathing) after getting FluMist.

Who may not be able to get FluMist?

 Tell your healthcare provider if you: are currently wheezing; have a history of wheezing if under 5 years old; have had Guillain-Barré syndrome; have a weakened immune system or live with someone who has a severely weakened immune system; have problems with your heart, kidneys, or lungs; have diabetes; are pregnant or nursing; or are taking Tamiflu®, Relenza®, amantadine, or rimantadine.

They will decide if FluMist is right for you.

What are the most common side effects of FluMist?

The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose; sore throat; and fever over 100 degrees F.

Please see accompanying complete Product Information, including patient information at www.medimmune.com. 

For more information, please visit www.FluMist.com.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm for AstraZeneca PLC, has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at www.medimmune.com. 

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GAITHERSBURG, MD, Oct. 3, 2011 – MedImmune, the global biologics arm of AstraZeneca, today announced execution of an in-licensing agreement with Pfizer Inc for tremelimumab (CP-675,206), a CTLA-4 monoclonal antibody.  Under the terms of this agreement, MedImmune will assume global development rights to tremelimumab and Pfizer will retain the rights to use tremelimumab with specified types of combination therapies. MedImmune plans to explore tremelimumab in a number of potential cancer indications. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.   

“Adding another immunotherapeutic approach to our oncology pipeline, one which may employ the immune system itself to fight cancer, exemplifies our continued commitment to embracing this new era of cancer care,” said Bahija Jallal, Ph.D., MedImmune’s Executive Vice President, Research and Development.

Anders Ekblom, AstraZeneca’s Executive Vice President, Global Medicines Development, added:  “This project to further explore and advance tremelimumab showcases our synergies in marrying world-class biologics expertise with global development and commercialization capabilities in oncology.”  

Effectiveness of the agreement is contingent on expiration or termination of the waiting period under the Hart Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act.

About tremelimumab

Tremelimumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody which binds to the protein CTLA-4, expressed on the surface of activated T lymphocytes. Anti-CTLA-4 antibodies comprise a new generation of immunotherapies for the potential treatment of cancer.

About MedImmune

MedImmune, the global biologics arm of AstraZeneca PLC operating through various affiliates in the AstraZeneca Group (LSE: AZN.L, NYSE: AZN), has approximately 3,500 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland. For more information, visit MedImmune’s website at http://www.medimmune.com.

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business with a primary focus on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines for gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuroscience, respiratory and inflammation, oncology and infectious disease. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. For more information please visit: www.astrazeneca.com.

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