Duluth, GA-October 1, 2002 -Merial, maker of GASTROGARD® (omeprazole), EQVALAN® (ivermectin) and ZIMECTERIN® (ivermectin) has expanded its equine product portfolio to include FLAIR® Equine Nasal Strips. The strip, a disposable, self-adhesive device worn just above the nostrils, promotes respiratory health and performance by holding the horse's nasal passages open for optimal breathing during strenuous physical activity.

"This is an exciting addition to our equine product line," said Cristiano von Simson, Director of Strategic Development for Merial Equine Global Enterprise. "FLAIR strips have been scientifically proven to help prevent lung injury and promote better breathing "during training and competition."

According to a recent report in the American Journal of Veterinary Research, horses wearing FLAIR strips experience a reduction in exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), or bleeding in the lungs, use less energy to breathe and recover faster from physical activity. Researchers also reported that horses wearing FLAIR strips used five to eight percent less energy at high speeds and during recovery.

Horses are obligate nasal breathers, meaning they cannot breathe out of their mouths. During intense exercise they can experience nasal tissue collapse into their airways. FLAIR strips prevent the nasal tissue from collapsing, widening the nasal passages and allowing oxygen to flow freely to the horse's lungs.

These benefits can apply to a variety of disciplines including eventing, jumping, endurance, reining, barrel racing, polo and flat and harness racing. Their use has been approved by many regulatory bodies, including the FEI, USA Equestrian and AQHA. Most trainers and competitors notice an immediate difference in the horse's "feel" or "sound" when using FLAIR strips. Riders also notice their horses are more relaxed, look fresher, and catch their breath faster.

The FLAIR strip opens air passages by fitting 1.5 inches above the opening of the nostrils. They're made of a non-irritating adhesive, so they won't irritate the horse's skin, however, they will provide enough force to keep air passages open during a full day of activity.

FLAIR strips were invented by two equine veterinarians and developed by CNS, Inc., the Minneapolis-based consumer health care products company that developed Breathe Right® Nasal Strips for people. FLAIR strips are currently available in the U.S. and Canada through veterinarians, tack stores, and equine supply companies. Merial will soon expand distribution to include Europe, Australia, Brazil and other important international markets. For more information or to find a retailer, visit www.flairstrips.com.