Court of Appeals Overturns $1.8 Billion Patent Verdict for Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc.

Horsham, PA - (February 23, 2011) - Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. (Centocor) today received a decision from the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, D.C. overturning a 2009 federal court jury verdict that awarded the company $1.8 billion after finding Abbott Laboratories liable for patent infringement.

A panel of the court ruled that the patent relating to Centocor anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) -alpha rheumatoid arthritis treatments was invalid.

"We are disappointed by the decision," said Rob Bazemore, president of Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc.  "We are considering whether to ask for reconsideration by the panel or by the court of appeals as a whole."

The original verdict was returned in June 2009 by a U.S. District Court jury in Marshall, Texas.  The patent is co-owned by New York University and Centocor, the exclusive licensee.

About Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc.
Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. redefines the standard of care in immunology, nephrology, and oncology. Built upon a pioneering history, Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. harnesses innovations in large-molecule and small-molecule research to create important new therapeutic options. Beyond its innovative medicines, Centocor Ortho Biotech is at the forefront of developing education and public policy initiatives to ensure patients and their families, caregivers, advocates, and healthcare professionals have access to the latest treatment information, support services, and quality care. For more information about Centocor Ortho Biotech, visit www.CentocorOrthoBiotech.com.  Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson.