AstraZeneca Annual Report and Form 20-F Information 2008

Further information

In April 2008, Sun Pharmaceuticals launched generic amifostine in the US. In response, we extended an agreement with Bedford Laboratories to launch an authorised generic amifostine for oncology in the US. We have ceased all active promotion of branded Ethyol in the US. We have an active infringement action against Sun Pharmaceuticals regarding certain Ethyol patents.

Abraxane^®, discovered, developed and owned by Abraxis, uses a novel technology to deliver paclitaxel for the treatment of breast cancer. During 2008, we co-promoted Abraxane^® in the US under an agreement with Abraxis. In November 2008, we entered into an agreement with Abraxis under which Abraxis re-acquired exclusive rights to market Abraxane^® in the US. Under the agreement, the board of Abraxis’ parent ended the Co-Promotion Agreement. Upon termination, Abraxis will pay AstraZeneca a $268 million fee on 31 March 2009.