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Released 02/29/2008

CIBA VISION Introduces AIR OPTIX™ Brand and Monthly Modality in the U.S.

Better Reflects Commitment to Healthy Vision and Improving Patient Compliance

Duluth, GA, Feb. 29, 2008 – CIBA VISION is pleased to introduce the AIR OPTIX brand name in the U.S., as well as a recommended monthly replacement schedule to help improve patient compliance. The introduction coincides with a phase of accelerated innovation at CIBA VISION, which begins with the U.S. launch of AIR OPTIX for ASTIGMATISM in Spring 2008. Moving forward, new products and product improvements to CIBA VISION’s family of high oxygen transmissible silicone hydrogel contact lenses will be introduced under the AIR OPTIX brand name, and with a monthly replacement schedulei.

The launch of the new brand name and monthly modality affirms CIBA VISION’s commitment to providing healthy and comfortable contact lens options to eye care professionals and their patients – and the recommended monthly modality for the AIR OPTIX family helps encourage higher patient compliance. Research shows 56 percent patient compliance for those wearing monthly lensesi; an increase of more than twice the compliance rate of 1-2 week lenses. In fact, as few as 26 percent of patients wearing 1-2 week disposable-type contact lenses are compliant with the recommended replacement schedule.

“Recommending monthly replacement aligns modality with the reality of how patients actually wear their lenses, and is what I prescribe in my practice,” said Jordan Kassalow, O.D., M.P.H., and a partner in a large specialty contact lens practice in New York City. “Monthly replacement of AIR OPTIX for ASTIGMATISM lenses is easier for my patients to remember, which helps improve their compliance. It also encourages patients to return for annual exams, which helps my practice profitability.”

Eye care professionals can confidently recommend a monthly replacement schedule for AIR OPTIX for ASTIGMATISM, with research showing the lens sustains its performance throughout the monthly durationii. In a clinical trial, patients wearing AIR OPTIX for ASTIGMATISM gave it high ratings for comfort and vision at both two and four weeksii. Additionally, lenses worn by patients showed no significant increase in front surface lens deposits between two and four weeks of wearii.

Trends indicate that the market for monthly replacement is growing and gaining traction. Recent data shows that growth for contact lens products with a monthly modality has outpaced the biweekly segment. Innovations in lens material and design will help drive continued growth of the monthly segmentiii.

“CIBA VISION understands the importance of encouraging the appropriate wear and care of contact lenses and improving patient compliance,” said Rick Weisbarth, O.D., F.A.A.O. and VP, Global Head Professional Development and Partnerships. “Our innovative products – such as NIGHT & DAY®, Focus® DAILIES® and Clear Care® – have high levels of patient complianceiv,v,vi. AIR OPTIX for ASTIGMATISM is another great addition to CIBA VISION’s portfolio of healthy lens options.”

AIR OPTIX will now be the global brand name for CIBA VISION’s future silicone hydrogel innovations in all markets around the world. Having one global brand name will allow CIBA VISION to significantly simplify its business operations and deliver consistently high customer service levels. Additionally, it will allow improved speed to market with future product innovations as CIBA VISION continues to innovate and build its AIR OPTIX family of products.

About CIBA VISION
With a focus on innovation, quality and strong partnerships with eye care practitioners, CIBA VISION is a global leader in the research, development and manufacturing of contact lenses and lens care products. CIBA VISION shares eye care practitioners' passion for healthy vision and dedication to improving the quality of patients’ lives around the world. With worldwide headquarters in Atlanta CIBA VISION is the eye care unit of Novartis AG (NYSE: NVS). For more information, visit the CIBA VISION web site at www.cibavision.com.

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i CIBA VISION data on file, 2005.
ii CIBA VISION data on file, 2005.
iii CIBA VISION estimate and Industry Data.
iv CIBA VISION data on file, 2004.
v CIBA VISION data on file, 2005.
vi CIBA VISION data on file, 2007.