Alza Corp.'s Nicoderm nicotine transdermal patch has receivedFood and Drug Administration marketing approval and will goon sale before the end of the year, Alza said on Friday.

Nicoderm will be marketed by Marion Merrell Dow Inc. ofKansas City, Mo., which also sells Nicorette gum, the onlyprescription smoking cessation product marketed in the UnitedStates.

Wall Street analysts project MMD's first-year Nicoderm sales inthe $40 million to $50 million range, said Alza spokeswomanLaura Mills. Palo Alto, Calif.-based Alza will receive anundisclosed royalty on sales.

Nicoderm is designed to be used for 10 weeks, at graduallydecreasing dosages, in conjunction with behavior modificationtherapy.

Alza shares (AMEX:AZA) on Friday closed at $81.25, up 75cents.

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