Retacrit(TM) to be the 1st Biosimilar Epoetin to Achieve Subcutaneous Licence in Renal Patients

Retacrit(TM) Received a Positive Opinion From the European Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) for Subcutaneous (SC) use in Renal Anaemia

LONDON, February 22, 2010 - Hospira announced today that the European Committee for Medicinal
Products for Human Use (CHMP) has recommended for approval the administration
of Retacrit (epoetin zeta) subcutaneously in the nephrology setting. This
provides an alternative option to intravenous (IV) delivery of the drug for
the symptomatic treatment of anaemia associated with chronic renal failure.
Final approval by the European Commission (EC) is expected in the next few
months, which will result in marketing authorisation for Retacrit
subcutaneous (SC) administration in all EU member states.

"As part of Hospira's continued commitment to expand biosimilar options
for patients, we are pleased that Retacrit is the first biosimilar epoetin to
get a recommendation from the CHMP for subcutaneous administration in the
nephrology setting," said Michael Kotsanis, Hospira's President of Europe,
Middle East and Africa. "Once approved by the European Commission, Retacrit
will be suitable for subcutaneous as well as intravenous administration in
the nephrology setting. This will give clinicians greater flexibility in
managing symptomatic anaemia in their renal patients and provide healthcare
professionals with a cost-effective alternative to originator epoetins."

The recommendation for approval of Retacrit SC administration follows the
submission of data from a rigorous Phase III clinical trial demonstrating
comparable efficacy and safety between epoetin zeta and the reference
product, epoetin alfa, when administered subcutaneously in patients with
end-stage renal failure on chronic haemodialysis.

Kees Groenhout MD, Vice President of Global Clinical R & D, Hospira,
said: "The approval will be a significant step forward, because patients who
aren't yet on haemodialysis can be treated with Retacrit at home. Many will
also be able to self-inject Retacrit for the first time. For several reasons,
subcutaneous administration can conserve hospital resources and save valuable
time for patients, too."

The approval has the potential to benefit both healthcare systems and
patients across the EU. Cost savings can be made when chronically ill
patients learn to self-administer their medication, because they no longer
need a visit from (or to) a healthcare professional.

Notes to Editors:

About Retacrit

Retacrit (epoetin zeta) is a biosimilar EPO indicated for the treatment
of chemotherapy-induced anaemia, and anaemia associated with chronic renal
failure. It is currently licensed for IV administration in nephrology and via
the SC route in the oncology setting. SC administration in the nephrology
setting has received a positive opinion in Europe, with approval expected in
the first half of 2010.

Retacrit(TM) is a trademark of Hospira.

About biosimilars

The introduction of biosimilars such as Retacrit can help provide a more
cost-effective option than originator brands and thereby help to reduce
healthcare costs in the EU. It has been estimated that biosimilar competition
resulting in a 20 percent price reduction in five off-patent
biopharmaceuticals could save the EU over EUR1.6 billion per year.(1)

About Hospira

Hospira is a global specialty pharmaceutical and medication delivery
company dedicated to Advancing Wellness(TM). As the world leader in specialty
generic injectable pharmaceuticals, Hospira offers one of the broadest
portfolios of generic acute-care and oncology injectables, as well as
integrated infusion therapy and medication management solutions. Through its
products, Hospira helps improve the safety, cost and productivity of patient
care. The company is headquartered in Lake Forest, Illinois, United States
and has approximately 13,500 employees. The head office for Hospira in
Europe, Middle East and Africa is in Leamington Spa, UK. Learn more at
www.hospira.com.

Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 -
A Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning
of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements
regarding certain regulatory approvals and statements regarding Retacrit.
Hospira cautions that these forward-looking statements are subject to risks
and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from
those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Economic, competitive,
governmental, legal, technological and other factors that may affect
Hospira's operations and may cause actual results to be materially different
from expectations include the risks, uncertainties and factors discussed
under the headings "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Hospira's latest Annual
Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Forms 10-Q, filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, which are incorporated by reference. Hospira undertakes
no obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements
as the result of subsequent events or developments.

References:

1. European Generic Medicines Association. EGA Handbook on Biosimilar
Medicines 2007

For further information please contact: Media, Hannah Stacey, Athena, +44(0)20-8956-2289 or +44(0)7984-496-441; Financial Community, Karen King, +1-224-212-2711.