Aldara actin
Aldara (actinic keratosis treatment) totaled SEK 121 million (90), a 35%increase compared to 2008 Soma (muscle relaxant) totaled SEK 120 million (66) Sales in local currencyclimbed 37%. Sales of the 250 mg strength on the US market demonstratedcontinued robust growth. Optivar (allergic conjunctivitis treatment) reached SEK 102 million (80) In theUS, sales in local currency were down 4%. Zamadol (moderate to severe pain treatment) increased 5% to SEK 97 million (92).Meda retained its position from 2008 in local currency despite falling pricelevels in several European markets.
Novopulmon (budesonide Novolizer, asthma treatment) climbed 27% to SEK 61million (48). Export sales contributed strongly to the rise and the product grewin several European markets. Contract manufacturing and service revenue fell as planned and reached SEK 68million (88). PROFIT Operating profit As stated in the guidance for 2009 published in theannual report, operating expenses for the period rose 9% compared to Q4 2008 andexcluding restructuring costs from Q4 2008. The rise includes importantinvestments in marketing-particularly for the US launch of Astepro. Operating profit for January-March reached SEK 757 million (661), correspondingto a 15% increase.
EBITDA totaled SEK 1,110 million (925), yielding a 32.3% margin (36.0). Financial items The Group`s net financial items for January-March were SEK -176million (-213). Higher interest-bearing liabilities compared to the same periodthe previous year were comfortably compensated by lower market interest ratesand exchange gains The average interest level on 31 March 2009 was 4.4%. The Group`s profit after net financial items for January-March rose to SEK 581million (448).