December 12, 2005 -- Baxter Healthcare Corporation announced today the launch of sevoflurane, the world's most widely-used inhaled anesthetic, in China. The company also unveiled its plans for a phased launch of sevoflurane in additional geographies throughout 2006, including the United States, Japan and, upon regulatory approval, certain European markets.

Baxter's sevoflurane is chemically and therapeutically equivalent to Ultane(R) (Abbott Laboratories). The addition of sevoflurane distinguishes Baxter as the only company that offers all three modern inhaled anesthetics globally - sevoflurane, Suprane(R) (desflurane, USP) and Forane(R) (isoflurane, USP). In addition, Baxter offers the intravenous anesthetic, propofol, in the United States.

"With the addition of sevoflurane, Baxter now provides the broadest portfolio of inhaled anesthetics to its customers worldwide," said Daniel Tasse, general manager of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Oncology, part of Baxter's Medication Delivery business. "We will leverage our strong customer relationships and channels, along with investments we've made in sales and marketing, to successfully launch sevoflurane."

Inhaled anesthetic agents such as sevoflurane are administered to patients through vaporizer machines. Baxter's sevoflurane is compatible with the same vaporizers as the branded product. In addition, to assure a seamless transition to the generic product, Baxter will offer customers access to vaporizers as part of a vaporizer placement program.

About Sevoflurane

Sevoflurane is indicated for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in adult and pediatric patients for inpatient and outpatient surgery. Inhalational anesthetic agents, including sevoflurane can cause malignant hyperthermia and should not be used in patients with known sensitivity to sevoflurane nor in patients with known or suspected susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia. Sevoflurane exposures should not exceed 2 MAC hours at flow rates of <2 L/min. Rare cases of seizures have been reported in association with sevoflurane use, the majority of which have occurred in children and young adults. For full prescribing information, visit www.baxter.com.