Released on = February 28, 2006, 7:46 am

Press Release Author = Jonathan Jordan

Industry = Biotech

Press Release Summary = Cornerstone BioPharma, the Triangle-based specialty
pharmaceutical company currently focused on the development and commercialization of
niche prescription medications in the respiratory arena, today announced the company
has signed a co-promotion agreement with ASCEND Therapeutics (ASCEND). This
agreement names ASCEND as a partner in the promotion of Balacet 325™, a
mild-to-moderate pain medication.

Press Release Body = Balacet 325 was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in
May 2005 and has since been promoted to pain specialists and primary care providers
by Cornerstone’s sales force. Commencing immediately, the ASCEND sales force will
co-promote Balacet 325 with a focus on obstetrics and gynecology healthcare
providers. This partnership represents a significant expansion into the $14 billion
U.S. pain market and will serve to increase the recognition of Balacet 325 among
healthcare providers.

Commenting on the agreement, ASCEND CEO Jay Bua said, “Balacet 325 provides
practical and safe treatment of mild-to-moderate pain, a common problem amongst
patients who seek OB/GYN care. We are excited to have partnered with Cornerstone
BioPharma to provide specialists in this area with a notable treatment option for
reducing their patients’ pain.”

“We are confident in this strategic move for Balacet 325,” said Craig Collard, CEO
of Cornerstone BioPharma, Inc. “It will not only increase Cornerstone’s reach and
penetration in our current markets, but will provide the opportunity for us to
expand into women’s health.”

# # #
About Cornerstone
Cornerstone BioPharma, Inc. (www.cornerstonebiopharma.com), located next to North
Carolina’s Research Triangle Park, is an emerging specialty pharmaceutical company
that is currently focused on the development and commercialization of niche
prescription medications in the respiratory arena. Cornerstone is actively engaged
in strategic licensing of additional prescription products through acquisitions,
strategic partnerships and new product development.

About ASCEND Therapeutics
ASCEND Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the use of transdermal
drug delivery technology to overcome therapeutic barriers and raise the standard of
care for certain chronic conditions. For more information about ASCEND, you may
visit the company\'s web site at www.ascendtherapeutics.com.



Web Site = http://

Contact Details = CONTACT: Jonathan Jordan
919 Marketing/919.557.7890
jjordan@919marketing.com