Medtronic and Bayer HealthCare announce alliance to provide blood glucose meter to Medtronic patients outside the Unites States

New blood glucose meter to provide advanced therapy options for people with diabetes beginning in Canada and Europe.

Leverkusen.– Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE: MDT) and Bayer Diabetes Care, a division of Bayer HealthCare LLC and a member of the Bayer Group (NYSE: BAY), today announced an alliance to distribute and co-market a new blood glucose meter for Medtronic patients outside the United States beginning in Canada and Europe. The new meter, based upon Bayer’s Contour® meter platform, will wirelessly transmit blood glucose test results directly to MiniMed Paradigm® insulin pumps and the Guardian® Real-Time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems. Wireless communications make data entry easier and more convenient for patients.

As part of the agreement, Bayer Diabetes Care acquires exclusive rights to Medtronic’s proprietary wireless communications protocol in certain markets outside the United States. The new meter will initially be introduced in Canada and Germany, followed by a phased rollout in other European countries and in further countries as agreed upon by the companies. Details of the financial terms of the agreement are not being disclosed.

“Bayer’s strong presence in key markets such as Canada, Europe, Latin America and Asia enables Medtronic to reach more diabetes patients with its advanced technologies,” said Sandra Peterson, President of Bayer Diabetes Care. “This alliance also supports our commitment to helping Medtronic customers maintain good health through frequent glucose testing.”

“Offering this new meter with our insulin pumps and real-time continuous glucose monitoring systems will improve quality of life and ease of use for many of our patients,” said Chris O’Connell, President of Medtronic’s diabetes business. “Our new alliance allows us to bring trusted, state-of-the-art solutions to Medtronic patients who strive for the best possible diabetes management.”

The Diabetes Business at Medtronic
The diabetes business at Medtronic (www.medtronicdiabetes.com and www.medtronic-diabetes.co.uk) is the world leader in diabetes management. The company’s products include insulin pump therapy, continuous glucose monitoring systems, related disposable products and diabetes management software.
Medtronic currently markets the MiniMed Paradigm® Real-Time Insulin Pump and Continuous Glucose Monitoring System – the world’s first insulin pump with Real-Time continuous glucose monitoring. Together with CareLink™ Therapy Management Software and wireless glucose meter communication, Medtronic offers patients an integrated solution for managing their diabetes.

Medtronic
Medtronic, Inc. (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology, alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life for millions of people around the world.